March 25, 2023

At dawn this morning, the full extent of the horrific damage to Rolling Fork, Silver City, and Amory from the night's tornado shocked and saddened all of us.

We pray for those who lost their lives, all survivors, and the first responders. The Chapel of the Cross in Rolling Fork was severely damaged, and the Rev. Greg Proctor, the chapel's part-time priest, is doing a damage assessement of the church, and of parishioner's homes.

In a previous email today, the Rev. Deacon Catherine Halford stated that donations to aid survivors might be made through gift cards, suggesting that WalMart cards may the best choice. Aslo, the diocesan office is accepting checks. Write "for tornado relief" in the memo line. 

Thank you to parishes for arranging financial contributions at tomorrow's worship services. Parishes wanting to send onsite teams to aid in the cleanup must until the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency gives an all clear. The diocesan Disaster Preparedness and Relief Team will coordinate and inform the diocese about recovery efforts.

Let us pray.

Lord Christ, you proclaimed the kingdom of God in villages, towns, and lonely places: Grant that your presence and power may be known at this time in Rolling Fork, Amory, Silver City and all other areas suffering from the ravages of the storms. Bless those who died, soothe those who suffer, give rest to the weary, and give hope and strength to all during the recovery effort for your love's sake. Amen.