Bishop Bill

Four weeks ago today, Louisiana and the Gulf Coast was changed...in time we will be able to describe to others in what ways and how...for now we are focused on standing up...we are helping each other and growing.

Tomorrow will offer me and our team the first "look-see" at the affected churches in New Orleans. We hope to be able to see as much as officials will allow. Tomorrow night's email will contain more details and descritions.

Operation Compassion continues to supply food, supplies and help to those in the affected areas. I'm told that 2% of New Orleans has power and 20% of the north shore. NBC news was in Bogalusa this weekend and if you saw the report you know this community, though unnoticed by many, has suffered great loss. We have been sending supplies up to Bogalusa from the Covington Distribution Center. Remember this area in your prayers. Dr. Ted Long and his church team have done a great job in working with Operation Compassion in Baton Rouge for the needs of many. Pastor Nick Hager has coordinated a number of projects, including temporary housing for New Orleans pastors, to help us as well. Pastor Lance Baker in Shreveport and the people there have blessed many. Yet, is not possible to mention all the things being done in the many local communities of Louisiana. I marvel to consider that every community in our state has felt some effect of the storm. Pastor Robert Sharpton and Pam have been housing those who were displaced from New Day Christian Center. Pastor Wallace White and Linda have been blessed by 120 friends, members and others from Faith Temple and on and on it goes! There is true synergy within our ranks for the challenges ahead. It's why I know we will make it!

Relief teams from Missouri, Texas, North Georgia, Tennessee, Indiana and West Virginia have been or will be in the state this week doing clean-up and helping local residents with storm damage. We are grateful for the partnerships which this challenging time has afforded us. What we are discovering is what we all truly knew in our hearts--THE CHURCH OF GOD IS A TRULY CONNECTED FAMILY!

Our ministers and spouses will gather in Baton Rouge (Maranatha) on Saturday (1 p.m.) for what promises to be an emotional gathering (our first since the storm) and time to forge a "together" direction for the future. Bishop Orville Hagan is planning to be with us and as our Executive Committee liaison, you must know he has been working so hard to help us in many different ways! What a friend he has been to Louisiana during this season. The document attached will give you some idea of where we believe the future points for us.

Finally, our state office team is working hard and on those occasions when you try to reach us by phone and don't...please understand we are likely talking to others. Your patience is so appreciated. Emails are another good way to reach any of us as we try to return all emails daily as well as phone calls.

Be blessed today!

Bishop Bill