From the Office of Bishop Pedro M. Suarez in the Florida-Bahamas Synod, we receive this update (also available as PDF) on local churches, and a request for prayer and donations.

Hurricane Dorian has caused widespread destruction and flooding throughout the Bahamas and the U.S. Virgin Islands. We have received an initial report from Pr. Cliff Lewis of Our Saviour Lutheran Church in Freeport that his family is okay, that there is extensive flooding and building destruction, but that information is still being gathered about the extent of impact. While we wait for further details, we continue to surround all affected in prayer. Everyone who survived this hurricane will have needs.

Our Response

As in all disasters, the ELCA works closely with partners to respond to and support the communities affected. With the Bahamas, Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) International and ELCA Global Mission will work through international relief partners–specifically through Church World Service Disaster Response. LDR-Int’l and Church World Service are committed to both immediate and long-term recovery for the whole area impacted by the storm.

Beyond the vital work being done by LDR-International and Church World Service for the Bahamas, we will be finding additional ways to support and care for the community of Our Saviour Lutheran
Church. Donations to the Florida-Bahamas Synod Disaster Response fund allow us to walk with the congregational leaders in ways that meet their specific needs.

Due to the unique international dynamics of the Bahamas, gift cards and supplies are not as helpful as financial donations. These funds—to BOTH the synod disaster response fund AND Lutheran Disaster Response—allow us to be most flexible and responsive to those in need. As soon as it is safe, Bishop Suarez and synod leadership will make a pastoral visit. 100% of donations to both LDR and the Florida-Bahamas Synod Disaster Fund will be directed towards the necessary relief and recovery work.

What You Can Do

PRAY
Please pray for people who have been affected by hurricanes. May God's healing presence give them peace and hope in their time of need.

GIVE

Your gifts designated for “Hurricane Response” will be used entirely (100 percent) for direct response until it is complete. Both LDR and the Synod Disaster Response work will be involved in providing immediate and long-lasting support for those who have been impacted by this hurricane. 100% of financial donations to both LDR and the FBSynod Disaster Response will support the ongoing and long-term work being done by these partners.

CONNECT

For information and to donate, visit www.elca.org/ldr and www.fbsynod.com. Donations can also be sent to the synod office (3838 W. Cypress St, Tampa, FL 33607)

Learn more about Church World Service and international disaster response.

Based on format and information provided by Lutheran Disaster Response, adapted for the Florida-Bahamas Synod