Dear Southern Baptists,
The familiar quote says something along these lines: “it’s Déjà Vu all over again.”
This is the feeling I get when I look at the aftermath of Hurricane Ida – which ironically hit our shores 16 years to the day that Hurricane Katrina left her mark, and approximately a year since Hurricanes Laura and Delta tracked across our state.
To say that Louisiana has “been there, done that” is an understatement at best. However, with those words in mind, let me say thank you for being there and doing that.
Last year you were there for those living in southwest Louisiana. Brothers and sisters from across the nation joined in those relief efforts. You did that – you gave, you prayed, you served. God used you, and continues to use you, to restore those areas.
Now it’s time to be there and do that again.
Hurricane Ida left behind a staggering amount of damage. Every major power line to the New Orleans area was damaged or destroyed. Even days after the storm, there are some areas such as Grand Isle, La Place and St. John the Baptist parish that are still inaccessible. A quick survey of Louisiana Baptist churches indicates 80 or more churches were damaged and aerial reports show thousands of houses in need of repair. In addition, more than 40 pastors’ homes and parsonages are estimated to have been damaged or destroyed with reports yet to be confirmed from two of the hardest hit parishes, Terrebonne and Lafourche. Supplies are limited. Temperatures are high, and so is discouragement for those living in these areas.
Louisiana Baptists are resilient, but we’re also weary. So I’m inviting you to join me in asking God to “renew our strength” as Isaiah recorded. With this renewed strength we need to continue to pray, continue to give and continue to go. Use this link to view updates relating to our Disaster Relief efforts and while you’re on the page, ask the Lord to show you what He wants you to contribute towards these efforts.
I cannot assure you of much, but I will assure you of this, your prayers and your gifts will not only help restore those affected by the storm, they will also help us maximize Gospel impact as we share the love of Christ in deed and truth (1 John 3:18).
We’re Here for You,
Steve Horn
Executive Director
Louisiana Baptists
