Perhaps the only encouraging development in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita has been the unity and teamwork of Louisiana’s churches as they have engaged in massive, organized, and comprehensive disaster relief efforts. The leading organization in these efforts has been PRC Compassion, led by my dear friends and brothers, Gene Mills, Dino Rizzo, Jacob Aranza, Steve Robinson, and so many others. It has been amazing work thus far, but the challenges for our battered state have only just begun.

There are countless stories of the extreme sacrificial gifts of the churches and individuals involved, and so many examples of selfless acts of mercy. Many of these churches still have evacuees sleeping in their pews and overwhelming their budgets and staffs. Some of the servant congregations and pastors have had their own churches completely destroyed. The future seems rocky and uncertain for so many. As we continue to trust in God and lean on one another, I pray and hope that the support for PRC Compassion will continue to grow. The organization will be vital to all of us in the days ahead.