At the recent North Carolina and South Carolina synod assemblies, we had the opportunity to speak on stage for a few minutes about the work we are doing as coordinators for LDR Carolinas. We also chatted with many attendees about the work they are already doing in their congregations and communities or the questions they have about preparing for disaster. It is encouraging to know how many are already involved or interested in being involved.
Right now, we are doing what many organizations in VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) refer to as “blue-sky work.” This is the crucial work of preparation before disasters occur. The photo above with a dark cloud encroaching on the bright blue sky reminds me of the importance of this work.
Of course, potential disasters in the Carolinas are not just severe storms, tornadoes, hurricanes, blizzards, or ice storms that come from clouds in the sky. Other natural disasters like earthquakes, floods, and wildfires are possible. Sadly, there are also potential disasters which are caused – either accidentally or intentionally – by humans, such as train derailments, explosions or fires in manufacturing facilities, and events like the substation attack in Moore County, NC in December 2022, which caused an extended power outage. We need to consider which of these events are most likely to occur in our own communities to make the appropriate preparations.
Lutheran Disaster Response shares God’s hope, healing, and renewal with people whose lives have been disrupted by disasters in the United States and around the world. The work of LDR Carolinas is a natural extension of our shared faith and our desire to share God’s love with others, especially in difficult times. Our work is focused in two specific areas: helping congregations prepare for disaster and creating a network of resources across North and South Carolinas.
Helping congregations prepare for disaster includes working with rostered ministers and lay leaders to develop a plan to respond to disaster, identifying or developing congregational resources, and coordinating with local organizations.
Creating a network of resources includes identifying churches with disaster plans, as well as those who can provide emergency shelters and other community resources. Identifying individuals with the skills, experience, and a desire to help, and making connections with other organizations that respond to disaster are crucial.
If you (or someone from your congregation) completed a Congregational Preparedness Survey and returned it to us during the synod assembly, you have taken the first step in becoming part of this network! If you have not completed a survey yet, you can download one here and email it back to Ruth Ann Sipe at [email protected]
We are planning to hold regular Zoom meetings for anyone interested in learning more about our work together. Look for an invitation in your email or in the synod e-news to join us for the first meeting.
Many of those at one of the synod assemblies also used one of our solar charging stations to charge their phones or other electronic devices. These stations, which can be recharged by AC power or with a solar panel, are available to provide emergency power in case of a power outage. Many also asked about purchasing one for your congregation or personal use. For more information, contact Ray Sipe at [email protected] .
Please contact us if you have other questions or would like one of us to meet with your congregation or conference to discuss disaster preparedness!
