This update concerning the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy is from John Newsom, pastor of GCI churches in Queens and Manhattan, New York City.
We in New York City and Long Island continue the long recovery from the storm. We are thankful that none of our GCI members were harmed bodily, however some suffered damage to their homes, especially those living near the ocean. Most all New Yorkers and Long Islanders experienced lengthy power outages, downed trees and gasoline shortages.
The coastlines of New York City and Long Island were severely damaged by the storm. Some of that damage is unimaginable, with entire neighborhoods and homes wiped out by storm surge or fire. The compassion of New Yorkers has been amazing. Many from both religious and secular groups have rallied in support of those affected. Several GCI members work at businesses that have not yet reopened; as a result, some are not being paid. We have established a relief fund to help our members repair storm damage and meet other emergency needs.
This weekend we celebrated the first full worship services in our congregations as most members have power and gasoline once again. However, some of our members living near the ocean remain in damaged homes without power. A few went out to help a family who literally had the ocean dump the beach and boardwalk into their home. Much sand and debris remain in their neighborhood. They were able to join us for worship, testifying to the storm’s power and the Lord’s glory and steadfast love.
In services this weekend, we focused on words paraphrased from Ernest Hemingway: “Life will break us all, but some of us will be strong in the broken places.” We gather and gain strength in times like these, because Jesus has assumed our humanity, and joined to his humanity we are healed and strengthened. We are resolved as congregations to embody the heart of Jesus as “the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” Wherever possible, members will participate in direct action projects, especially as we head toward Thanksgiving with many still displaced by the storm.
The photographs above were taken near a GCI member’s home where the boardwalk was thrown by the storm surge into the neighborhood.
John writes: “We have established a relief fund to help our members repair storm damage and meet other emergency needs.”
IF more funds are needed, how can other churches help? Is this fund linked to the greater GCI disaster relief fund?
Thanks, Ted; let us know,
Bill Ford
Having experienced Katrina in my home town of Slidell, LA about 30 miles from New Orleans, I sympathize with all the folks in New York and New Jersey. Rest assured our prayers are with you. I only wish I could be there in person to help but will do so in other ways.
It’s refreshing to know most of our members were able to attend worship services.
In Christ,
Walt Baudoin
GCI treasurer, Mat Morgan notes that he is in touch with Pastor Newsom in NYC so that we may provide financial assistance as needed from GCI’s disaster relief fund. To donate to that fund go to https://www.gci.org/participate/donate (or click the “donate” button at GCI.org).
Wow, we just continue to be become attuned to the scope of the disaster and damage, and are “glad” to hear more detail about damage to our member’s property. Our prayers can intensify and focus, and our funds now have a place to be sent so they can help alleviate some suffering. Let us the comfortable be part of the relief from “the God of all comfort.”
I have been following Sandy from the time she was in the Caribbean. I was praying for protection and ease to the US East Coast. Thank God worse did not happen.My prayers are with you and will continue to be.
Yes brother, in times of trouble beyond our strength God gives comfort.Moreso we learn to rely/depend on His love to see us through to a brighter future with Him.
My love to all the brethren there and Stay strong as you fellowship and comfort one another. At times like these the best place to be in in the Body of Christ where we draw zeal and inspiration to continue from those parts of the Body that are stronger than us.