Clive Craigen, GBNAM missionary to Chicago, sent this report from his hurricane relief ministry in Ruston, Louisiana, on Sunday, September 18, his final day there before returning home.
Greetings from Ruston, Louisiana. I have been down here working as part of a shelter management team providing food, shelter and care for evacuees.
This little town of about 25,000 people have been the real heroes in this disaster. They have provided everything from baby supplies, school uniforms, food, and clothing. Many of the evacuees came with very little, but what they could fit in their cars.
We were able to come and provide relief and work alongside the local disaster volunteers. It has been a privilege to serve alongside these wonderful people.
I was part of a team of 14 men from the Grace Brethren Churches that were part of shelter management in seven shelters in northwestern Louisiana. Three of us were in Ruston.
We also had the privilege of making new friends from around the country-other local volunteers. I have also been privileged to get to know some wonderful people who had remarkably good spirits in spite of losing everything.
In spite of the disaster, I have seen a strong faith present in the lives of the evacuees, the local community and also the Red Cross volunteers. We have been working 15+ hour days and doing everything from clean-up to answering questions, to serving food and doing anything else needed by our guests.
Please pray for the salvation of those who do not know Christ and have been affected by this disaster-evacuees, local and Red Cross volunteers.
Pray for wisdom, strength and sensitivity on the part of the Red Cross volunteers.
Pray for strength and resilience and patience on the part of the evacuees, most of whom are still waiting for assistance.
Pray for the obstacles many must face and overcome as they begin life again.
Pray for a safe trip home tomorrow–hopefully by plane.
Pray for my wife and kids…