VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 11/08/07) - National Ministries' office of Direct Human Services has released $2,000 of One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) undesignated disaster funds to American Baptist Churches of Los Angeles (ABCLA) to provide relief to victims of the recent wildfires in California.
"We thank God today for the compassion of American Baptists who have contributed undesignated funds to OGHS for times such as these," says Dr. Aidsand F. Wright-Riggins III, National Ministries' executive director. "Generous support of this offering allows us to reach out to our brothers and sisters in Christ when their lives have been torn asunder by devastation of truly disastrous proportions, offering God's love and the bright light of hope."
The Rice Canyon wildfires touched families of Community Baptist Church in Fallbrook, Calif., completely destroying two homes and damaging four mobile homes, rendering them unfit for habitation for at least six weeks.
The church, which has established a Fire Recovery Fund, estimates it needs at least $10,000 over the next six weeks to help the fire victims. Sources in the region report that ongoing needs will be identified as insurance companies and the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency complete their work in the area. The Rev. James Kilinsky, pastor of One In Christ Baptist Church in National City, Calif., and vice president of American Baptist Congregations of the Southwest and Hawaii, is coordinating ABCLA efforts to uncover needs of American Baptist churches and families throughout the region.
Kenneth George, National Ministries' coordinator of Direct Human Services, invites American Baptists to continue their support of OGHS. "Faithful and joyful giving to this annual offering empowers American Baptist Churches USA, through National Ministries and International Ministries, to make a difference in people's lives, reaching out as Christ would when people need it most."
Contributions to aid in the response for wildfire victims can be made through OGHS, designated to "California Wildfires." Donate through your church's OGHS mission support or visit the American Baptist Churches USA web site, www.abc-usa.org, selecting the "Give" option from the main menu.
Mail checks, noting "California Wildfires" in the memo line, to: American Baptist Churches USA Attn: Barbara Jarrett Office of the General Secretary P.O. Box 851 Valley Forge, PA 19482
Andrew C. Jayne American Baptist Churches, USA Mission Resource Development http://www.abc-usa.org/