Deer Creek Shores Presbyterian Church responds to the effects of Hurricane Helene. (October 2024)

Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida late evening on September 26th as a very dangerous category 4 hurricane. The impact of Helene has been felt across multiple states.  With the storm surge, wind damage, and flooding, it is crucial to have the necessary resources to support the many communities that are affected. Helene caused devastating damage in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee.

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The response of the members and congregations of the Presbyterian Church(USA) is coordinated through Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA). PDA is in communication with all affected presbyteries to share information and coordinate resources as damage is assessed. National Response Teams have been deployed by PDA to Tampa Bay Presbytery, Presbytery of Western North Carolina, Northeast Georgia Presbytery and Holston Presbytery. Approval has already been given for several initial assistance grant requests and they are anticipating additional requests from affected presbyteries to help respond to needs in their communities.

 

At its Meeting on October 1, 2024, the Session of Deer Creek Shores Presbyterian Church approved sending $2,000 from congregational funds to support the ministry of Presbyterian Disaster Assistance for Hurricane Helene relief, and further invites and encourages members and friends of the congregation to add their gifts to this project. Mark checks and gifts to the church for Hurricane Helene or use the link provided to donate directly to PDA.

 

Please join us in praying for everyone affected by Hurricane Helene:

God of grace and compassion, in these overwhelming moments of loss and devastation, we come to you with weary hearts that are both heavy and hopeful. We hold in our prayers and hearts all those impacted by the hurricanes, conflicts, and other disasters, and we implore for your mercy, peace, and healing to embrace our siblings all over the world. By your grace, bring comfort to those who are grieving, give strength to the exhausted, and provide shelter for those who have lost everything.

May your Spirit move in this, your creation, bringing peace amid the turmoil, and breathing hope into the places that feel broken. May your Spirit continue to be the quiet but constant reassurance that you are with your children and creation, even in the darkest moments, guiding us toward healing and restoration.

As we continue to see the news, we lift up the brave souls who are working tirelessly to rescue and assist. Give strength and wisdom for the tasks ahead. And stir our hearts, dear God, to step in with compassion, helping our neighbors, near and far, with kindness, love, and compassion.

In all of these disasters, we place our trust in your everlasting promises of your presence and care. Restore what has been shattered and lead us toward a path of renovation, peace, healing, and the renewing power of your always present Spirit. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.

 

To donate directly designate your gifts to DR000169

 

https://pda.pcusa.org/situation/hurricane-helene/