A Message from Randy Ackley, Coordinator of PDA
By now most of the world knows of the terrible earthquake that hit Port-au-Prince, Haiti. In the wake of this great human tragedy, we are grateful for the outpouring of so many expressions of care and generosity from Presbyterians everywhere. Because of your quick response, Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) was able to double its commitment of funds to provide immediate aid those first few days following the quake. Your gifts were put to effective and strategic work in coordinated efforts with our international and ecumenical partners, Action by Churches Together (ACT) Alliance and Church World Service, (CSW). The first phase of response included search and rescue teams, food and water distribution sites, and medical care for the injured. There is still much work to be done.
And now the news that a more powerful earthquake and resulting tsunami has devastated Chile.
Once again, the earth has shaken violently, as it did in Haiti several weeks ago. This time, an earthquake with a magnitude of 8.8 — one of the most powerful ever recorded. Images from the areas hit hardest by the earthquake and the resulting tsunami reveal tremendous destruction. No doubt, the loss of life will climb beyond the 723 deaths confirmed at present.
Even before a word is on my tongue, O LORD, you know it completely. You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me (Ps. 139:4-5).
This latest devastation intensifies our journey through the season of Lent, remembering the suffering and death of Jesus. Please join us in prayer for those in Chile who are affected most directly by the earthquake, as well as all who await word from family and friends. Let us also pray for our partner church – the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Chile — and those who are already engaged in providing relief.
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) is working with Church World Service in the recovery effort. $25,000 from One Great Hour of Sharing has already been disbursed for immediate response needs. Those who wish to contribute financially can do so online or by calling (800) 872-3283. The designated PDA account number is DR000185.
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled; and do not let them be afraid (John 14:27).
Link to PC(USA)-Haiti Update
What you can do:
As God's people, we are called to stand in the "GAP"- GIVE, ACT, PRAY.
Give - Financial support for relief efforts can be made online and designated to DR000064 for Haiti and DR000185 for Chile.Gifts can also be made by phone at (800) 872-3283 ,weekdays between 8 AM and 6 PM (EST), and checks can be mailed to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, P.O. Box 643700, Pittsburgh, PA 15264-3700. Your gifts, combined with those of others, provide a visible and tangible demonstration of God's care in the midst of these tragedies.
Pray - Join with others in lifting up the people of Haiti and Chile, and those seeking to provide aid in this critical time.
As the eyes of the world turn to Haiti let us join our hearts in prayer:
God of compassion, please watch over the people of Haiti and Chile, and weave out of these terrible events wonders of goodness and grace. Surround those who have been affected by tragedies with a sense of your present love, and hold them in faith. Though they are lost in grief, may they find you and be comforted; guide us as a church to find ways of providing assistance that heals wounds and gives hope. Help us to remember that when one of your children suffers we all suffer. Through Jesus Christ who was dead but lives and rules this world with you. Amen.
Bruce Reyes-Chow, Moderator of the 218th General Assembly (2008), Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
Gradye Parsons, Stated Clerk, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
Linda Valentine, Executive Director, General Assembly Mission Council, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
Our Mission:
To Seek Justice, Love Kindness, and Walk Humbly with God. Micah 6:8
Worship with us during the upcoming Easter season.
Sunday, March 14 - Luke 10:38-42 Jesus Visits Mary and Martha
Sunday, March 21 - Luke 18:9-14 The Story of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector
Palm Sunday, March 28 - Luke 19:1-10, 28-40 The End of the Beginning
Holy Thursday, April 1 - Service of Healing and Wholeness with Holy Communion
Good Friday, April 2 - The Seven Last Words and Personal Stories of Mission
Easter Sunday, April 4 - Sunrise Service 6:30AM, Full Easter Worship 10:00
View our latest Newsletter: March Newsletter
