Hurricane Ian has mostly left Florida, but the storm left its mark on our communities. We are grateful to report that, aside from a new "water feature" in our field, the church has been left relatively unscathed. We plan to hold all of our Sunday services as we typically do, beginning with worship at 9:30 a.m.
In addition to physical damage, storms like this one also cause stress, fear and disruption. You are not alone and should not expect to shoulder any of that burden on your own. Please reach out to our elders or our deacons if you find yourself needing support—whether physical, emotional or spiritual—today or in the days or come. You are loved and we are happy to serve your needs.
Please join us in praying for all of those throughout our state who have suffered loss as a result of Ian. And please continue praying for those in other states who face the possibility of loss as it approaches them.
"We thank you for the presence of friends who would share this burden of grief simply by showing up in the midst of it, and grieving with us. We thank you for small mercies and kindnesses extended. For the grace of thoughtfulness translated into the tiny details of life.
"For beauty. O Lord, let us not lose sight in our grief, of all that is yet bursting with beauty in this world. Let us not lose sight of the truth that we live in the midst of an unfolding story of redemption, and that even this loss of ours will have its counterpoint at the great restoration.
"Indeed, for anything spared and salvaged, we give you thanks. Let us see that even in disaster, there is grace still at work, for you know the limits of our hearts."
(Every Moment Holy, "A liturgy for those who suffer loss from fire, flood or storm")
