Hurricane Helene Relief

Many are aware of the damage recently caused by Hurricane Helene. Please take a minute to read a letter from our Antioch MSO (Movement Support Office) and our practical response as Antioch Norman and how you can be a part.

"Dear Antioch Family,

We are a church family that responds to crisis by extending the love of Jesus through prayer and service.

Western North Carolina was hit hard this past week by Hurricane Helene and severe flooding throughout the mountain region. Our Antioch churches in Boone and Asheville were affected, and we want to rally to serve them through prayer and practical support as they care for their congregations and reach out to the surrounding community.

Prayer Response:

1. Pray for access to water, food, and electricity, which are the greatest needs right now.

2. Pray for favor as Acts of Mercy works to gather local pastors to assess the needs of their congregations and that the local church would be activated to support their neighbors.

3. Pray for the Antioch team in Asheville. The city was hit very hard, with major highways closed and homes and hospitals completely underwater. Pray that the church there would rise up and bring relief to those in need.

4. Pray for the recovery efforts and safety of rescue teams as they work tirelessly to clear debris, restore power, and provide aid. Ask for strength and resilience for the affected communities as they begin the process of rebuilding their lives."

ANTIOCH NORMAN'S PRACTICAL RESPONSE:

Acts of Mercy Norman needs funds to help with relief efforts. Those who are deployed will also be raising funds through individual and team Managed Missions. Please follow the "GIVE" link above and select "Acts of Mercy" fund from the dropdown menu on our Give Page to give to Acts of Mercy Norman.

Acts of Mercy Norman is partnering with several other ministries to respond. You cannot go under the banner of Acts of Mercy/Antioch Norman if you are not trained. Please fill out the "GO" link above to be trained. We are still evaluating the best way to serve—most likely in clean-up efforts or food distribution. Though medical professionals are welcome to join, we are specifically looking for people who have a willingness to serve, to clean, and to love on those lost in the crisis.

IMPORTANT DETAILS:

Norman Interest Meeting: October 6, 2024 at 12:30pm in Antioch Norman PLEX.

(Open to those who are trained and those who are interested in training)

Potential deployment dates:

• Goal to send first team by 10/7 - invite-only, will need to raise funds

• Goal to deploy teams every 1 - 2 weeks following the first team for the month of October

Practical needs: water, non-perishable food, propane, water, water filtration, power banks (to charge phones).