π Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts + Resources
A Update from Pastor Kelley
October 4, 2024
Dear Friends,
Western North Carolina has experienced an unprecedented disaster. I know many of you join me in the helplessness felt over the first few days in the aftermath. Being cut off from the world sheltered some of us from the magnitude of the disaster, unable to know what was happening outside of our little bubble of the world. Not being able to communicate with you has been one of my biggest frustrations. Yet, in the big scheme of things as I begin to be able to see the news and the devastation surrounding us, the inconveniences of no power, water, internet or cell service seem quite minor. We have all been impacted and we are all experiencing trauma. Through it all the only thing I knew I could do was pray for God to give each of you what your spirit and soul need to endure this storm.
Information regarding Mars Hill United Methodist Church
We had a large tree fall into our parking lot, taking lines down with it. There are lines in the parking lot and on the play ground. The preschool is not operating until further notice.
As of October 4, we are without power at the church. We do have water. We do not have internet services. It may be a little while before we can begin streaming services again.
We will have a simplified service on Sunday at the regular time (9:45 am).
Paula Dempsey, Joel Reed and Patty Higgins will be leading that service because I have unfortunately tested positive for COVID as of this morning.
For our worship on Sunday, October 6, if you have box of pedestal fans you can donate to dry homes, please bring those to the church.
Updates Regarding Brooks Howell
Brooks Howell Home had 11 or more trees to come down. They are without power and water. Those residents have been extremely resourceful.
Two of their employees lost their homes. Three lost their vehicles. They are being housed at Brooks Howell. Brooks Howell is establishing an Employee Disaster fund to assist with their needs.
Supporting our Sister Congregation in Distributing Supplies at the Ebbs Chapel Food Pantry
Bright Hope Laurel United Methodist Church has been a resource for the community as a distribution center for food, water and other supplies.
The Ebbs Chapel Food Pantry, located adjacent to Bright Hope Laurel UMC, is now open Monday through Friday from 9 am until 5 pm and Saturday from 9 until 11 am. Anyone is welcome to obtain the food, water and other supplies they need.
Volunteers can sign up by calling the church at (828) 689-5486
Ebbs Chapel Food Pantry
281 Laurel Valley Road
Mars Hill, N.C.
The Writer of Hebrews writes a sermon to people who feel hopeless. He reminds them of the hope they have in the gift of Christ. In Christ, we have a High Priest to intercede on our behalf. In Christ, we received a better covenant. In Christ, we have an anchor for our hope. In Christ, we have a permanent city of God. These will be the themes we will unpack in a new Worship Series entitled βWhy Jesus?β This worship series will begin next Sunday. I will conclude with the final words from our series on James. James 5:13-14 says βIf any of you are suffering they should pray. If any of you are happy, they should sing. If any of you are sick, they should call for the elders of the church, and the elders should pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord.β Letβs gather and pray, anoint, and encourage one another.
Please do not hesitate to contact me for anything including a conversation. 828-734-6548. My cell service and internet have been restored. I look forward to seeing you as soon as I am out of quarantine
With much Love for each of you,
Pastor Kelly
As of October 6, 2024, our power has been restored. Our building as electricity., running water and internet.
Madison County Hurricane Helene Relief & Recovery Updates
These links provide important resources for residents of Madison County impacted by Hurricane Helene.
Our October Mission of the Month includes two special opportunities to support relief and recovery in Western North Carolina and Madison County, including a Special offering for Hurricane Helene Relief through the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church and opportunities (financial and volunteer) to Support the Food Pantry at Ebbs Chapel in partnership with our sister church Bright Hope Laurel United Methodist Church. Learn more at marshillumcnc.org/helenerelief
Madison County Emergency Management (important community updates)
Madison County Helene Updates (county resources and details)
Ebbs Chapel Food Pantry (water, food and supplies)
Town of Mars Hill (updates for residents of the Town of Mars Hill)
Get Help (contact list for local help)
Volunteer & Donate Locally (get involved and support local efforts)
Donate to UMCOR (100% of the gift goes to Hurricane Helene relief)
Our Little Free Food Pantry will remain stocked and is open 24/7/365 - donations are always welcome
βO God, we place our trust in you.
As the wind and rain has passed through the mountains
of Western North Carolina, we name before you
those whose lives have been devastated.
We especially remember those who have lost so much,
those with the fewest options, the most vulnerable.
Draw near to those who are the most exposed,
the most frightened, the most overwhelmed.
Hold space for a stillness and a peace even in the midst of the storm.
O God, we place our trust in you.
In the aftermath of ravaging wind and surging flood,
inspire those who give themselves for others.
Let that work be done justly, wisely, safely, generously.
Help us to turn toward one another in our need.
Strengthen our bonds of connection and love for each other.
O God, we place our trust in you,
and we say these words in the strong name of Jesus.
Amen.
β