The weather this week is quite a change from last week! I pray you and your families are safe. The winter storm left many throughout the Austin area without power/heat and/or water. I am grateful for the many ways our Capital area churches have already been the hands and feet of Christ during this time. Some of you have opened your doors as warming stations and others have distributed food and clean water. In this newsletter are resources to assist as you continue responding. Our Capital District Disaster Response Team members especially encourage trained Emergency Response Team members (ERTs) to begin making a plan. If you would like guidance in those conversations do not hesitate to reach out to Jim Street at capital@riotexasresponse.org
It has been encouraging to hear from those sharing words of care and concern during this time. I have had colleagues across the connection reach out and a seminary classmate in California asking where their church could donate. What a gift! I share here a message I received from Rev. Dr. Joe Daniels who was with us at a district professionals meeting around this time last year:
Teresa, my sister: Grace and peace to you and your family and communities in Texas! Please know that we have been praying for each of you amidst the devastating situation in Texas, and in the Austin area where you all reside. We want you to know that we are here to help and assist in any way that we can be supportive. Please let us know when and how that might happen. In the meantime, know that we continue to intercede to the Lord in prayer for your wholeness and wellbeing as well as those in your district and across Texas. Please be very much encouraged! — Pastor Daniels and the Emory Fellowship Family
This continues to be a heavy season. I am praying for you. Please do not hesitate to reach out if I can be of help. As we continue our Lenten journey, I am reminded that repentance is about turning – and above all, turning towards love. Thank you for all the many ways you love God, neighbor and world. May our love increase!
Take care and stay encouraged!
teresa