We continue to pray for the people of Haiti and those who are responding to them. The people there have always been close to our hearts and foremost in our missionary outreach. I am sure that our parish family joins my earnest words of sympathy for our parishioners who have worked first hand there and with the staff and children of the House of Hope.At this time, we only know that the orphanage is very close to where the earthquake struck.Moreover, the Rev. Lauren Stanley, who is currently stateside, has been unable to make any contact there.
We also remember the members of the Fairfax Search and Rescue Team preparing to leave for Haiti, and especially their family members who share our concerns for their welfare.
Our parishioners have always been generous in many forms of outreach. Here are two ways to respond today:
I invite our parishioners to a short prayer service tonight at 8pm in the nave.The Rev. Lauren Stanley will join me in leading that service.Those already coming for parish activities may want to join us.
Lauren suggests that the Episcopal Relief and Development Fund is the fastest and most credible way to respond today.These major crises require money to mobilize. You may contribute on line to:www.er-d.org. There is a front page link for donations or an address for the USPS.Our parish contributes $1K annually to the ERD from its general operating funds.
I hope that many of you can join us for the service tonight as I bid your generous giving for those who have “no help within themselves to help themselves” —as one of our prayers says.
Larry
Most Merciful Father,
We beseech you to hear the cries of your people from Haiti and our most earnest prayers for them.In the midst of things we cannot possibly imagine or understand, we pray that we will trust in your providence for the relief and restoration of the people of Haiti.Grant strength and healing power to your Church—remembering especially Alice and the people of the House of Hope and the Rev. Lauren Staley and those she serves.Guide the members of the Fairfax rescue team in safety to the relief of those in need.Help us to find our own ways to serve in our own community as your Church, through Jesus Christ our Lord.Amen+
