Lutherans Organize Relief Work after Storms, Tornadoes

November 14, 2002

CHICAGO – Lutheran Disaster Response, a ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod (LCMS), is organizing recovery work after storms and tornadoes brought death and destruction Nov. 10 in several Eastern and Southern U.S. states.

"At least 35 people have been killed and more than 100 injured," said the Rev. Gilbert B. Furst, director, Lutheran Disaster Response.

Furst said some of the hardest-hit states are Tennessee and Alabama. "In Tipton County, Tenn., 274 homes were destroyed, and in nearby Madison Country, 193 homes were destroyed," he said. In Abbeville, Ala., 143 homes were damaged or destroyed.

"At the moment a network of Lutheran Disaster Response coordinators is busy assessing damage and determining appropriate responses on behalf of the church. Interfaith efforts are also beginning," said Furst.

Many devastated areas are still inaccessible or closed to relief workers because of dangerous debris that must be removed, Furst reported.

"Lutheran Disaster Response will work closely with affected ELCA synods and LCMS districts," he said. Lutheran congregations will be called upon to provide support for relief efforts. It is "certain that major cleanup will be needed, as well as counseling services for those whose lives have been affected by this destructive weather," Furst said.

Emergency disaster grants will be provided as specific needs are assessed.

"The prayers of God's people are more powerful than these deadly storms and tornadoes," Furst added.

ELCA News Service