wfn.org | N.C. clergy called to work in flooded areas Monday, Oct. 25

[NewsDesk <NewsDesk@UMCOM.UMC.ORG>]

Oct. 22, 1999 News media contact: Thomas S.
McAnally·(615)742-5470·Nashville, Tenn.  10-71B{554}

By Bill Norton*

 RALEIGH, N.C. (UMNS)  -- Responding to the needs of people in
hurricane-damaged eastern North Carolina, United Methodist Bishop Marion M.
Edwards cancelled a spiritual renewal retreat for clergy Monday, Oct. 25,
and called on all pastors in the area to volunteer in flooded areas on that
day. 

"The needs are great, and volunteers are desperately needed," he said. "May
Jesus Christ be glorified as we spend the day as servants among those who
have lost much and who persevere with patience and hope."  Pastors have been
asked to invite laity to join them.

The North Carolina Annual Conference includes 826 churches in 56 counties
from Burlington to the coast. More than 500 pastors attended the most recent
retreat known as the "Bishop's Day Apart." Three hurricanes have hit the
state over the last 30 days, resulting in massive flooding and destruction.

Pastors were invited to wear work clothes and bring everything they will
need for the day, including lunch. Edwards' letter said work would be
planned for those who cannot for health reasons be in flooded areas, as well
as for those who desire to work directly in flooded homes and businesses.
Work will also be scheduled in distribution centers, offices, and churches,
as well as flooded dwellings and buildings.  The workday will begin at 9:30
a.m. with a short worship service.

The North Carolina Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church has
conducted disaster response work continuously since Hurricane Dennis left
the state in early September. Hurricane Floyd hit the state two weeks later
and Hurricane Irene followed in early October.

The conference disaster response office, with 12 telephone lines, has been
coordinating volunteers and supplies for flooded areas.  Warehouses have
been opened for building materials. Individuals wishing to volunteer may
call (800) 849-4433, ext. 309.
# # #
*Norton is director of communications for the North Carolina Annual
Conference of the United Methodist Church.

*************************************
United Methodist News Service
Photos and stories also available at:
http://www.umc.org/umns