Dear Friends in Christ,

Wednesday, tornadoes and damaging winds ripped through Iowa. Winds of 70 to 100-plus mph sheared off roofs, overturned vehicles, toppled trees, and caused hundreds of thousands of power outages while contributing to hazardous travel. 

In times like these, I can only stop and turn to the Lord. So, I ask you to pray with me:

God of the Universe, at the dawn of creation, your Spirit breathed on the waters, making them the wellspring of all holiness. You created the oceans and rivers, and all that dwell within them, and at your word, the wind and the waves were born.
 
Lord, at times such as this, when we realize that the ground beneath our feet is not as solid as we had imagined, we plead for your mercy.

As the things we have built crumble about us, we know too well how small we truly are
on this ever-changing, ever-moving, fragile planet we call home. Yet you have promised never to forget us.

Comfort us, Lord, in this disaster. Be our rock when the earth refuses to stand still,
and shelter all under your wings where homes no longer exist.

For though the mountains leave their place and the hills be tossed to the ground,
your love shall never leave us, and your promise of peace will never be shaken.

Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.

Blessed be the name of the Lord, now and forever. Amen

We are continuing to assess the needs and will keep you updated. I encourage you to offer your support in two ways prayer and financial gifts to Iowa Disaster Ministries Advance #223.

If you would like to make a donation to help with disasters please make your check payable to Iowa Conference United Methodist Church and in the memo line write Disaster Ministries Advance #223. Send to: Iowa United Methodist Church Conference; 2301 Rittenhouse Stree, Des Moines, Iowa, 50321. Donate online

Our strength is in the Lord.

Blessings,
Bishop Laurie