Post-Hurricane Update From Bishop Russell

Dear Friends,

As we begin to assess the impact of Hurricane Isaias across our diocese, I am grateful to report that, for the most part, we have fared well. We have checked in with all our churches, and everyone appears to be safe and sound. Our church buildings and facilities have sustained only minor damage, although some pockets of our region are still without power.

We are grateful for this good news, especially knowing that some of our neighbors have experienced much more difficult circumstances. And if there is one thing we know about the people of this region, it is that we are resilient. We look out for one another, we care for our neighbors, and we get to work.

The church is being the church. Already, congregations and volunteers are finding ways to respond to the needs around them, offering food, shelter, and practical assistance to their neighbors.

Last year, in preparation for times like these, we co-sponsored and purchased several grill trailers and placed them strategically around the diocese so our congregations can respond quickly when disaster strikes. Now, for the first time, we are putting those resources to work. Teams from Andalusia and Niceville are taking the trailers to Milton, one of the hardest-hit communities, where they will prepare and serve meals Thursday and Friday.

As we learn more about the ways our churches and their members are responding, we will share those stories with the wider diocese. If you know of similar ministries taking place in your congregation or community, please let us know. We want to celebrate these acts of care and help others see how the church is showing up for its neighbors in this time of recovery.

Once again, Episcopal Relief & Development has been a valued companion and an important resource. Its support, including a grant to help fund community ministry, is helping us respond to needs as they emerge.

There is still work ahead, and recovery will take time for some of our neighbors. In the meantime, let us continue to pray for those affected, support one another, and remain attentive to the needs of our communities.

I am thankful for the clergy, lay leaders, volunteers, and congregations who are caring for others in the midst of this storm's aftermath. Thank you for being the church.

+ Russell