Jesus says, " . . . . . . I tell you the truth, whatever you (do) for one of the least of these
brothers (and sisters) of mine, you (do) for me." Matthew 25:40 (NIV)
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We gladly support Lutheran Men in Mission because they in turn support good works. Please explore Lutheran Disaster Response.
The Haitian Timoun Foundation in Haiti is a favorite group we enjoy supporting through our fifth Sunday offerings
Atlanta Interfaith
 Habitat for Humanity (click to visit)
 Dream House for Kids (click to visit)
Our Troops in Iraq
At All Saints, the effects of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita on the Gulf Coast have impacted us as they have most of the country. We are fortunate to have as members of our church family Hal Shope and Marianne Zotti. Hal is a Liaison for Volunteer Development with Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) in nine states. Marianne is a nurse with a doctoral degree in public health, an employee with the CDC and has written about her own experience as a disaster victim in a book, "All Things New." Both have taught us a great deal about how to be of assistance to those impacted by these disasters. Click Here to visit their ministry.
What is Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR)?
LDR's role is a collaborative ministry that seeks to minister holistically to the unmet needs of those affected by disasters. Hal Shope says, "You cannot just build a house," so LDR also addresses the physical, emotional and spiritual needs for children and adults who are victims of disasters. Whereas FEMA, the Red Cross, and other organizations respond at the beginning of a disaster, LDR remains on the scene helping those in need when other agencies have long since gone home or moved to other disasters. Typically LDR is in an area 3-4 years following a disaster. However, the organization estimates it will spend 6-8 years in the Gulf Coast region.
At All Saints, we have funded six mission trips since the hurricanes hit the Gulf Coast. Our church not only sends volunteers, but we support this team in prayer and with donations. Al Kates, another member of our church, has organized all of the mission trips and had this to say in a recent letter to our members:
"What force Katrina possessed, yet this force has no comparison with resolve in the community of Ocean Springs. You see trailers on every concrete pad where once a house stood. Signs of new life are popping up all over the place. They will rebuild but they need our help. Help not just for the short term, but the long term. I have been a builder all my life but the last 7 months have been the most rewarding. All we have been able to do so far is tear down damaged drywall, cabinets, paneling, wood flooring, insulation, and bathroom fixtures out of four homes. Yet the people are grateful and embrace our help. They share stories with you during the short period of time we are a part of their lives. Stories of desperate hope, love, and of survival. Can you give a listening ear; can you give of your self, your time and your talents? There are many who need you in the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Are you able to go with us on our trip? I promise you won't forget the work you will do there. If you can join us, send me an email at akates@hjrussell.com. We shall car pool down, share fellowship together, work together, and begin to rebuild someone's life while sharing God's love. All talents are welcome and most age groups are welcome. If you are 16 or older you can work with us. If you have special talents let me know. If you have social work skills, medical skills, etc. let me know in advance. If you wish more info write me and I will get you answers."
Members of our congregation take the story of The Good Samaritan to heart. Remember in Luke 10:30-37; the Samaritan not only stops in the road to help the man beaten and robbed, but goes on to treat his immediate and obvious wounds, takes him to an inn to further care for the man and then pays the innkeeper to continue to take care of this man after the Samaritan must go on his way. Hal Shope says this is the essence of a serving heart; treat all levels of the need and continue to assist those in need until they are back on their feet and able to go on their way again.
We welcome participation from anyone who wants to join us in the ongoing and anticipated long-term efforts of helping families affected by disasters. We welcome your financial, physical, emotional and spiritual contributions. Come join us!
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