Storms

[jksbc]

I live about 30 miles from Smithville, MS and 60 miles from Tuscaloosa, AL. My community was spared April 27 by a strange but miraculous event. The storm system hit hard just West of us in Philadelphia, MS and many other small communities. It seemed to "divide" as it came over us and moved Eastward. It then joined back together just as it crossed the MS/AL state line and hit with a vengeance in Alabama and beyond. The awesome people in this community as well as many others have pulled together in efforts to help our neighbors. The relief efforts have been very successful. This is still heavy on our hearts. Now, Joplin, MO and others have been hit with massive tornadoes. The death toll keeps rising and the number of people injured and missing is staggering. Will you all join me in praying for all these communities during this historical weather season? Praying for protection, comfort, healing, relief from the pain, and blessings beyond measure.

[bggowing]

Praying. How are our fellow brothers and sisters in Joplin doing? Anyone down there?

[WORDpictures]

I'm near Springfield but have been shooting for a Christian media reporter in Joplin (my former stomping grounds) the past three days. There were several churches destroyed or heavily damaged, the only specifics I know were St. Mary's Catholic (you've seen their remaining cross as an iconic news image lately) & Peace Lutheran. Sorry this is only a partial list with which I'm familiar - We're in the heart of the Bible Belt here, where there's a church on every corner.

Most churches out of the storm's path are very active in relief efforts. A couple of note are Forest Park Baptist where Samaritan's Purse is based for its clean-up efforts. Just that ministry alone had 500 volunteers out on teams from all over the nation today. College Heights Christian Church continues to be a major warehousing & distribution center with well over a thousand people through each day.

FYI... Stained Glass Theatre, which presents Christian play productions, was completely destroyed with some staff & cast still hospitalized in serious condition.

[WORDpictures]

Yes, Joplin needs our prayers for the long haul as do those in Mississippi & Alabama. Besides so many people instantly becoming homeless & losing loved ones, unemployment will be a serious issue because of the loss of a significant commercial district, a regional medical center, and serious damage to at least three schools in Joplin... besides the loss of church buildings.

On the flipside, a volunteer worker told us today, "I've never considered myself to be a religious person, but because of the outpouring of support I've seen from so many different people from all over the country with different backgrounds coming together to help the people here... that's changed me!"

[gbcecil]

Yes, please pray. I am from the Branson area and our church is going to help this weekend.