Beloved of God,

Our hearts, along with those of millions of others around the world, were stunned when the tragic and devastating earthquake hit on January 12^th, and we deeply desire to bring relief and God’s love and grace to the people who were in Haiti. Our prayers have continually lifted for the families of those who died or are lost, and for all whose lives have been nearly destroyed by this disaster.

But, it is times like this when I am most proud to be a United Methodist!

Be assured that our United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) is already there bringing relief in ever increasing measure as resources become more and more available. UMCOR will be among the first into Haiti and the last out.

On Sunday, January 24^th, we will be receiving a special offering to support UMCOR’s work in Haiti. The need is great and the efforts will take years to complete. I am certain that there will be many opportunities for volunteer groups to go to Haiti and bring help and hope to the Haitians as they rebuild.

Of course, you can donate to UMCOR anytime through their website. 100% of your donation will go to the relief work in Haiti.  You can also click here to get updates

Finally, I want to encourage not only to donate to, and pray for, the people of Haiti and for the relief workers – let me encourage you not to listen to the voices of people like Pat Robertson who claim this disaster is the work of God. This disaster is the natural work of tectonic plates that run between Haiti and Cuba. God is not about the taking of innocent lives. God is about relieving the suffering of things like this that happen to us. And, God uses the church, among other agencies, to be a part of that work.

So, please join me as we participate in God’s redeeming and compassionate work in the world through UMCOR or another response of your choosing.

Peace and agape,

Jeff Jaggers