Hope Rising Update #62
by Fr. Bill Van Oss
Dear Friends,
As we prepare for Hurricane Idalia to make landfall north of us, we pray for those in it's path. There are two prayers below that you can use in the coming hours as we hold those that will be most severely impacted in our hearts.
In an abundance of caution, yesterday we packed up everything on our hurricane list and put it in the church bus, which was driven off the island this morning by Chuck Sterrett and parked in a safe location. The Gathering Place is closed today, but a small crew of FP workers is still on site until early afternoon and after doing a walk through, I am confident they have prepared as best as possible for wind and rain on our campus. They spent yesterday securing the buildings and removing all materials that were outside. We will make a determination later today in collaboration with F.I.S.H. staff if The Gathering Place will be open tomorrow for their Resiliency Hub services.
Please be safe and make sure you are comfortable where you are; especially for those who might be in already damaged homes.
Peace,
Bill +
A Prayer for Those Facing a Hurricane
On the Sea of Galilee, even when the disciples began to fear, Jesus showed that he was Lord over the waters by rebuking the storms, so that all would know that even the wind and the waves obey him.
Creator God, we ask you to calm the wind and the waves of the approaching hurricane, and spare those in its path from harm. Help those who are in its way to reach safety. Open our hearts in generosity to all who need help in the coming days.
In all things and in all times, help us to remember that even when life seems dark and stormy, you are in the boat with us, guiding us to safety.
– The Jesuit Church, America Magazine
A Prayer for People Facing Great Uncertainty
God of the present moment, God who in Jesus stills the storm and soothes the frantic heart; bring hope and courage to all as we wait in uncertainty. Bring hope and peace with whatever lies ahead. Bring us courage to endure what cannot be avoided. For your will is health and wholeness; you are God, and we need you.
-Adapted from a New Zealand Prayer Book
Peace,
Bill+
Moving Forward Updates from Fr. Bill
