We are now in the Month of December. It is hard to believe how fast this year has passed. December 2, is the First Sunday of Advent. We began the year with the Theme “Continue to Pray” I have called attention to this theme throughout the year. As we approach Christmas with so much pain, suffering and loss, once again, I urge you, “Continue in Prayer”.
Two devastating hurricanes hit the Eastern United States within weeks of each other leaving thousands of people homeless. The damage is so wide spread that the rebuilding process will take years. While we are in the recovery state from these storms, the residents of California have experienced the most destructive fires in their history with total loss of property many confirmed dead and hundreds of people still missing. With compassionate hearts we must “Continue to Pray” for those who have lost everything and for others who are doing their part to help the victims recover. The grief and loss is mind boggling.
At CVBC we have channeled our response to NC victims through the Baptist Men of North Carolina. Our fall concert with the Three Triangle Tenors raised $4000 for the relief effort. Richard Brunson, Director of Baptist Men reports that over 1,057,623 hot meals were prepared and served from 10 large kitchens set up by Baptist Men. There are 14 sites engaged in recovery operations. Over 4000 recovery jobs have been completed with approximately 2000 jobs yet to be completed. Volunteers are engaged in a variety of tasks such as mud-outs, tear-outs, shockwave/sanitation, putting tarps on homes, using chainsaws to remove fallen trees, etc. Looking toward the long range recover that will be required, three different rebuild centers are being established to house and feed the host of volunteers needed to help get people back in their homes. Continue to pray for more volunteers and more financial donations as well as the current needs of those displaced by the storms and the health of all involved. And if you are able, you can volunteer to be a part of the recovery process. You do not need to be trained to help! You can sign up to help at Baptists on mission.
James 5:16 says, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” Continue to pray.
In His Love, Charles
