Church of God Taking Action on Louisiana, Mississippi Flooding
March 14, 2016—The Church of God International Executive Committee met in an emergency session to authorize funding and action steps in dealing with dramatic flooding issues in the states of Louisiana and Mississippi.
Widespread flooding in the two states has damaged thousands of homes and the risk of rising waters prompted evacuations over the weekend. At least four deaths had been reported from flooding that began last week and flood warnings remained in effect as many rivers and streams remained high. Many roads and bridges have been damaged or destroyed.
On Monday morning, March 14, the executive committee, under the leadership of Presiding Bishop Mark L. Williams, authorized immediate cash payments for relief efforts. The funds were directed to administrative bishops Fidencio Burgueno (South Central Hispanic region), Melvin Shuler (Louisiana) and Chris Moody (Mississippi). Over the next few days the leaders are assessing damage to churches, parsonages, and members’ homes.
In addition, the executive committee authorized $10,000 to be directed to Operation Compassion to aid in their transportation of relief supplies to the affected areas. Operation Compassion is an independent benevolent organization that has proven their ability over and over to deliver in times of crisis. The Church of God Chaplains Commission has been granted a $3,000 stipend to assist their efforts in getting chaplains to the region for moral and spiritual support.
Williams also announced the Church of God is taking steps to launch a nationwide funding campaign to further assist in the disaster. Although the assessment is far from complete, some Church of God congregations and families have experienced damages or loss.
“We are asking our administrative bishops in Mississippi and Louisiana to seek out those who need aid and report back to us as soon as possible,” Williams stated. “This area is no stranger to these kinds of weather events, but it does not make it any easier when it happens. We are prepared to assist our brothers and sisters who need it and these steps are just the first in that process.”
Col. Pete Schneider, a spokesman for the Louisiana National Guard, said it’s the most widespread non-hurricane flooding he had ever dealt with. About 1,400 soldiers and air crews were at work throughout the state. By Sunday morning, nearly 3,300 people had been evacuated. That same day, U.S. President Barack Obama signed an order declaring flooding in Louisiana a major disaster, triggering federal aid for flood victims.
Information on giving toward the relief fund is forthcoming and will be available at www.churchofgod.org.
