Disasters come in many shapes, sizes, and causes. When they occur, both physical and spiritual devastation result. It places victims in a situation where they may be unable to see the hope and reassurance of God’s promises. And, in the midst of these situations, the connectional system of the United Methodist Church can provide a message of encouragement and restoration.
As 1 Peter 5:10 indicates, “The God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.”
The Disaster Response Ministry is conducting a “Fill the Trailer” campaign during Annual Conference. The goal of this initiative is to furnish the Conference’s newest disaster response trailer with the tools and equipment necessary to support early response teams (ERTs) and Volunteers in Mission teams (VIMs) as they follow God’s calling into restorative ministry.
Each congregational delegation is encouraged to prayerfully consider supporting this initiative by either brining specific tools for the trailer or providing financial support to equip it. If you are led to provide tools, ask your congregation to support their purchase from the attached list of ministry needs. The list is categorized by District. If your delegation feels called to provide financial support, please consider a free-will offering or fundraising effort to fulfill that calling.
When you arrive at Annual Conference, drop your tools and equipment in the trailer that will be at the Disaster Response Ministry informational table. Your financial support can also be dropped off at the table or sent directly to the Conference office noting Disaster Response Ministry Advance #8055.
When Noah was asked to build an Ark, he was provided with the tools to complete the task. Moses was summoned to lead the Israelites out of Egypt and equipped by God to do the job. And, when Jesus sent the disciples out two by two to share the word of God, He assured them they were outfitted with the proper tools.
If we prayerfully seek God’s call to provide hope and restoration in times of disaster and rely on Him to provide us with the tools we need, we can be assured He will bless us abundantly with all we need to “abound in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8).
Doug Hoy - drc@susumc.org
Disaster Response Coordinator
Find the FILL-THE-TRAILER WISH LIST here: tinyurl.com/yxn8ld7y
Susquehanna Conference of the United Methodist Church
