June 13, 2008

Emergency Flood Update

Floodwaters continue to rise here in Cedar Rapids. It is hard to put into words the degree of damage caused by the swollen Cedar River.

The river is at twice the highest level in its history.

Homeland Security is calling this a "500 year flood."

Nearly 4,000 homes are under water.

10,000+ people are evacuated.

Major businesses and hotels are filled with several feet of muddy, contaminated river water.

Bridges are closed or washed out.

Power is out in many areas.

These terrible conditions will remain a part of life for weeks to come.

See http://www.gazetteonline.com

We are people of faith, and we know that it is specifically in these kind of events that, as we pray, God receives the most glory. When we are the weakest, God shows Himself strongest. Would you join us in prayer? Miracles of grace and provision are happening, but we are at the beginning of a huge task and a long, extended time of sacrifice and labor. Indeed, many of the displaced families never anticipated that floodwaters would reach their homes. As a result, they are without flood insurance and have lost everything .

I know many of you would like to help financially. The citywide church in Cedar Rapids is involved and is committed to helping with the restoration of thousands of families. If I can speak candidly, I would love to see a million dollars or more donated so we can truly make a difference here. If you would be kind enough to help us, I promise every dollar designated for flood recovery will go to help those in need.

Please consider giving the largest gift you can. Remember, when one member suffers, we all suffer. And please continue to pray for the greater Cedar Rapids area, as well as Iowa in general, and all the other regions in the Midwest hit with storms and floods.

Donations can be given through our website using the Ministry Support link. Don't forget to stipulate that your contribution is for flood relief, which you can do after completing your credit card info on the last page.

Or, checks made payable to Advancing Church Ministries can be sent to 125 Robins Square Ct, Robins, IA 52328. Please note "flood relief" on the memo line.

Thank you,

Francis and Denise Frangipane