Dear St. Jude's,

As we begin to assess the aftermath of Hurricane Isaias, I hope and pray that you and your loved ones are safe.

Our community has experienced a significant storm, and we know that many of our neighbors are facing power outages, fallen trees, flooding, property damage, and uncertainty about what comes next. While the storm has passed, the work of recovery is just beginning.

 

An Update from St. Jude's

We are grateful to report that St. Jude's has electricity. However, cellular phone service remains unavailable, although text messaging is working.

 

If you need assistance, know of someone who needs help, or are available to help others, please text me or our Sr. Warden using the contact information on our website. We will do our best to connect those who need assistance with those who are able to help. Reminder: I will never contact you asking for help with Gift Cards or solicitation emails. These are scammers preying on your kindness!

 

We have an opportunity to put our faith into action. We can do things like:

• Check on your neighbors. Reach out to those who live alone, are elderly, or may need assistance. Sometimes a simple visit or message can make a difference.

• Offer a helping hand. Whether it's helping with clean up or preparing a meal, there are  ways to serve.

• Share what you have. Extra food, water, batteries, and other supplies may be a tremendous blessing to someone who has lost power or experienced damage.

• Pray for our community. Remember those who have suffered losses, our first responders, utility workers, and everyone working hard to get Niceville back up and running.

 

Additional Ways to Help

Several organizations offer opportunities to support recovery efforts or receive assistance:

• Episcopal Relief & Development: Support disaster response and long-term recovery through the Episcopal Church's relief and development ministry. Give to Episcopal Relief & Development

• United Way Emerald Coast: Support local disaster relief efforts, volunteer, or help families affected by the storm. United Way Disaster Relief

• American Red Cross: Volunteer or contribute to disaster relief efforts. American Red Cross

• Okaloosa County Emergency Management: Find official recovery updates, community resources, and information about reporting storm damage. Okaloosa County Emergency Management

• 211 Northwest Florida: If you or someone you know needs assistance, call 211 to connect with available community services.

 

One of the greatest gifts of Christian community is knowing that we do not face life's difficulties alone. In moments like these, we are reminded that the Church is not simply a building, but a community of people called to love and care for one another.

 

Please continue to pray for those affected by the hurricane, for emergency responders and utility crews, and for all those beginning the difficult work of recovery.

 

May God grant us strength, patience, and compassion in the days ahead.

See you in church!

 

Fr. Blake