Updates

GENERAL SUPERINTENDENTS' STATEMENT ON KATRINA

The Board of General Superintendents of the Church of the Nazarene joins in prayer with Nazarenes around the world for the victims of Hurricane Katrina on the Gulf Coast of the United States.

Our hearts are broken by the devastation of catastrophic proportions across Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida. Images of cities flattened in rubble or drowning in polluted water, the stranded seeking rescue, the helpless without water, food, and medical attention, and the grieving who lost loved ones to the storm surge are imprinted on our minds forever.

In the midst of widespread need, we are thankful for the response Nazarenes are already making. Numerous local congregations and districts are sending volunteers and trucks of supplies while Nazarenes in other states are welcoming and caring for refugees. Financial contributions are coming in as well.

Nazarene Disaster Response (NDR) is representing the hearts of Nazarenes everywhere in mobilizing volunteers, collecting donations, and joining with the American Red Cross and other government and nonprofit disaster agencies in providing relief in the most heavily affected areas. Our NDR representatives are already on the scene.

Damage to Nazarene churches on four districts has been reported, and one pastor’s home has been destroyed. Louisiana District Superintendent Gene Phillips expressed his gratitude for the Nazarene response to their need: "Thank God we’re part of a church family responding so generously."

We encourage you to continue your prayer support for these hurricane victims and urge you to send support for the relief efforts. Persons and churches wishing to make a donation for relief efforts can mark their checks payable to General Treasurer, Church of the Nazarene with "ACM1801 Hurricane Katrina Relief” in the memo line.

• On-line using VISA or MasterCard
• OR In the US, make checks payable to: General Treasurer
• and mail to:
  General Treasurer
  6401 The Paseo
  Kansas City, MO 64131
• In Canada, make checks payable to: Church of the Nazarene
• and mail to:
  Church of the Nazarene Canada
  20 Regan Road, Unit 9
  Brampton, Ontario L7A 1C3

All donations remitted through NCM and the General Treasurers Office will receive 10% Mission Special credit if the local church is identified.

NCM is the liaison between the pressing needs of the world and the individuals that are committed to making a difference. We understand that you may not be able to respond to every need. However, we want to keep you informed of the opportunities for your involvement in projects such as this. Every project deserves your individual consideration.

(Photo by Associated Press)