| We are praying for those directly affected by the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. The devastaton has been immense in communities across Holston and beyond, not only in terms of lives and property but also in our collective sense of security in that “that sort of thing just doesn’t happen around here.”
Place and community are very important to those of us who call Appalachia home. This tragedy directly impacts “home” for so many of our neighbors. Unfortunately, for the many who live on the margins, this catastrophic event has significantly altered their lives. My hope is that through it all, they also experience God’s love expressed by neighbors, family, strangers, and the connection of the United Methodist Church.
While this is hard and challenging, I believe it highlights the importance of the connectional ministry as local churches of all sizes are networked and in fellowship with one another, which becomes evident and crucial in times such as this. Whether one lives in a devasted area or not, United Methodists not only feel the pain of their neighbor’s crisis but lean into it. I am proud the Holston Foundation is a part of such a connection.
If you wish to support the recovery efforts for our neighbors, you can make a contribution to the Holston Conference’s Flood Relief fund by clicking here. As we stand in solidarity with the affected communities, churches, individuals, and families, let us also unite in prayer. May they feel the comforting embrace of Christ’s love through His Church, both in the immediate aftermath and in the long road to recovery.
Paul Bowman
Holston Foundation
President & CEO |
