Special Report: Volume 9 No. 9
August 28, 2020

"Who then is this, that even the wind and the waves obey Him?" Mark 4:41

Special STORM Report:
Disaster Response Updates
Across the Country

If you've been thinking of volunteering for OPC Disaster Response, you couldn't pick a better time than now! OPC Disaster Response is in contact with presbyteries across the country as multiple disasters are affecting our churches across the denomination. With so many events happening at once, we need your help by way of prayer, financial gifts, and volunteering for OPC Disaster Response more than ever! 

Presbyteries of the South & Southwest

Hurricane Laura

OPC Disaster Response will be in close contact with churches after a category 4 hurricane moved through Texas and Louisiana on Thursday. Hurricane Laura is expected to lessen but remain quite strong as it makes its way through the U.S. moving northeast. Please pray for the local churches and presbyteries in her path as they begin to learn of any needs and formulate plans to help. We will update as we know more.

Presbyteries of Northern &
Southern California

Wildfires

Wildfires are raging again in the state of California. We have been in contact with area pastors and it does not seem that any OP churches have been affected at this time. The diaconal committees of the presbyteries of Northern & Southern California are keeping their ears to the ground, as are we, even while we beseech the Lord to change the weather and bring relief.

Presbytery of the Mid-Atlantic

Tropical Storm Isaias

As many on the east coast know, Hurricane Isaias hit the U.S. in early August, starting in Florida, working its way quickly up the eastern shoreline. The storm brought driving rain and whipping winds. Trees were torn out of the ground; roofs and siding flew off homes and businesses as if they were made of paper. Millions were without power for days or weeks; some are just now getting back to normal (pandemic) life.

For David Bowles, a member of Grace and Peace OPC in California, MD, life can't get back to what has been referred to as "the new normal" just yet. David lives in a home in Leonardtown, MD with his 90-year old mother. By August 4, 2020, Hurricane Isaias had lessened to a strong tropical storm, but that didn't mean it didn’t pack a punch—especially for the Bowles.

In Maryland, the rain came as quickly as the wind. Some, like David and his mother, began to see the water rise in their home and garage. At its peak, the water measured about 5" throughout the first floor. David and his mother required rescue by the fire department. Thankfully, they were not injured. Read more...

Presbytery of Michigan & Ontario

Midland Flooding

The OPC Disaster Response effort continues in Midland, Michigan helping the Moots and Kennedy Families rebuild their homes after the flooding back in mid-May.

The sub-flooring is in at the Moots' home! This is very exciting to both the Moots family and the volunteers as it makes it much easier to move around the site.

At the Moots' house, framing, sub-flooring, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing have largely been completed. The electrical is due to be finished by the end of the month, with drywall beginning early- to mid-September. 

At the Kennedy's house, finishing work is scheduled to begin September 1st.

"It's not about me. It's all of Christ."

​Charley DeBoer, elder at Trinity OPC in Easton, PA says he'd serve again after lending his help for a week at the Midland effort. Take a listen.

Presbytery of the Midwest

Derecho

We have been in contact with churches in the Presbytery of the Midwest after a derecho swept through Iowa & Illinois two weeks ago. At this time it does not seem that any OP churches were severely affected by the storm, thank the Lord, but we are staying in contact should needs arise.

Need a printable version of this report?

Sarah Klazinga
Administrative Assistant
Short-Term Missions and Disaster Response
Sarah.klazinga@opc.org