More than fifty people from over thirty congregations across North Carolina gathered on Thursday morning, May 29, prior to the beginning of the NC Synod Assembly, for the pre-assembly event led by Lutheran Disaster Response Carolinas (LDRC). The Revs. Ray and Ruth Ann Sipe, LDRC disaster coordinators, facilitated this time for congregations to come learn more about the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, as well as the impact of LDRC in the aftermath and cleanup. The presentation walked participants through the disaster cycle, which begins when a natural disaster strikes an area, which is followed by the emergency response, then recovery, mitigation, and finally preparedness.

Those present began by participating in a disaster simulation, assisted by LDRC staff, the Rev. Emily Lemoine, Amy Phillips, and churchwide Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) staff, Angela Galbraith. Participants received cards that represented family units, then they were walked through a simulation of a flood event in their area. Family groups had to pick items to take with them as they evacuated and drew cards that indicated if they were prepared for the event or if they received financial help, locally or from FEMA. Participants felt it was completely random if they received aid or not, which is exactly how many people feel following natural disasters.

Following the simulation, the group learned about the impact of Hurricane Helene and the generous nature of NC congregations. Pastor Emily Lemoine mentioned all the flood buckets, children’s comfort kits, personal care kits, and quilts donated, as well as the financial gifts that helped those in the impacted areas. Amy Phillips talked about her role as Western NC response coordinator and the many groups who are showing up to offer their services for those in need.

Pastors Ray and Ruth Ann Sipe spent the rest of the session talking with the group about ways individuals and churches can continue to help affected areas in North Carolina and be better prepared for the next time a disaster strikes. It might not be a hurricane, but it could come in the form of a fire, tornado, flood, hailstorm, or even an earthquake. Rev. Ray Sipe also discussed LDRC’s newest collaboration with the Mennonite Disaster Service called Bridging Together. This endeavor is helping to restore washed-out bridges and return people to their homes.

All are invited to attend the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene commemoration service on Saturday, September 27, at 2:00 p.m. at Nativity Lutheran Church in Arden. We will remember lives lost and lift up the generous spirit of the NC Synod.

If your congregation would like to participate in a disaster simulation/preparedness workshop or learn ways to financially support LDRC or Bridging Together, please contact Lutheran Disaster Response Carolinas for more information.