August 29, 2006

MINNEAPOLIS – Hurricanes Katrina and Rita caused enormous damage and loss of life in the Gulf Coast region in late summer and fall of 2005. Lutherans living in the region and church buildings near the destruction were hit with great losses. The crisis called forth an outpouring of aid and service that continues even today.

God in the Raging Waters by Paul Blom tells the story of how the Lutheran church and its people have responded to the suffering of those most affected by the storms. Following Jesus' admonition to love and serve those in need, the church has worked in partnership with synods and congregations to bring hope and healing to many in the region. Included are powerful firsthand accounts, insightful theological reflections, and questions for group use.

A portion of the proceeds of each book will be donated to the Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod Disaster Relief Fund.

"Natural disasters will never be able to weaken or stop the love of Christ. The unprecedented responses of love and support from across the country and globe are evidence of hope in the midst of destruction, injury, and death. This book should be part of the training for those who are led by the Holy Spirit to respond to disasters." – Ron Warren, Bishop, Southeastern Synod of the ELCA

"God in the Raging Waters will take you into the storm that continues for people impacted by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. It is an example of "faith seeking understanding" in the midst of people carrying wounds as individuals, church, and society. In the stories of rescue, relief, and recovery, you catch glimpses of God's resurrecting presence and grace working through the body of Christ, God's Church." – Jon Anderson, St. Paul Area Synod, ELCA

Author: Paul Blom is the Bishop of the Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Kathryn Haueisen is Associate Pastor at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Houston, Texas.

Editor: Kathryn Haueisen, director of the Melanchthon Institute in Houston, Texas, is involved with the Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod in assisting with disaster recovery.

God in the Raging Waters: Stories of Love and Service Following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, By Paul Blom, Format: 5.25" x 7.25," paperback, 96 pages, ISBN: 0-8066-5317-5, Price: $10.99, Publisher: Augsburg Books.

To order God in the Raging Waters please call Augsburg Fortress at 1-800-328-4648 or visit the Web site at http://www.augsburgfortress.org/.

Augsburg Fortress