October 30, 1998

Editon

Bishop offers support to pastors, victims of Georges

"When the world is at its worst, the people of God rise to be at their best," said Bishop Cornelius L. Henderson as he carried a message of encouragement to areas of the Florida Keys most affected by Hurricane Georges. Bishop Henderson met with United Methodist clergy and volunteers on Big Pine Key, the area hardest hit by the recent hurricane, and Key West. He said the purpose of his visit was to "give support and to collect information."   Full Story

Too many disasters spread volunteers thin

In 1998 alone, Florida received a record six federal disaster designations with volunteers called to all parts of the state to help in recovery and rebuilding efforts. And while the need is increasing, the supply of volunteers is dwindling.  "In the last 18 months, there have been so many disasters in so many areas," said Tom Griner, the Florida Conference UMVIM coordinator. "The people that respond are divided among 10 disasters in the rebuild stage."  Full Story

Fire victims need emotional healing
"The long-term relief is going to be emotional," said the Rev. Durwood Foshee, pastor of Palm Coast United Methodist Church. "Tropical storms pop up, and the people can't handle it. For us, it's not okay to say, ‘we'll fix 40 or 50 houses and go on our way.' "
    That's the Palm Coast church's stance and what's guiding its relief efforts as headquarters for the Flagler Disaster Relief Coalition. Full Story

Governor Chiles says
thanks to
'unsung heroes'
Firefighters and rescue workers were seen most often in news coverage of the fight against the wildfires that raged through Florida last July, but thousands of volunteers worked behind the scenes to help victims during the disaster and in its aftermath.
    Florida Governor Lawton Chiles paid tribute to those volunteers.     Full Story

Opportunities

Women invited to rest from responsibilities

Scholarships available for Wesley study in England

Florida Southern invites United Methodists to Christmas Gala

Setup Your Own
Local Church
Web Site