Message from Joplin

The last three weeks in Joplin have been a combination of overwhelming and amazing, a combination of horrible and wonderful. These have been weeks filled with high levels of anxiety but also great amounts of love and compassion.

As a lifelong Disciple I have always been proud of our little denomination, but in these last three weeks that has simply multiplied. Your prayers, your donations, your calls and emails, your trips to Joplin to lend a helping hand have reminded us of the significant family ties among those of us who call ourselves Disciples.

Over the coming months we will continue to work with the Area Office to keep you updated on the progress here in Joplin and the ways you can help. As we continue on this journey together and as you seek to find ways to reach out, let me share a few thoughts:

• We will always say yes to your love and kindness, but sometimes we will need to say no to the ways you are offering to show it. Please remember the difference.
• Things change nearly every day. What that means is that we ask your patience. For instance, if you are wanting to come volunteer next month we won’t be able to tell you what sorts of jobs are available until much closer to the time.
• Your prayers really do matter. When you pray for Joplin, you are doing something important. Never feel like prayer isn’t enough.
• Week of Compassion does wonderful work. Please remember this not only in crisis, but each year as we take routine offerings.
• We are overwhelmed, sometimes even by the kindness of the broader Church. What this means is that sometimes it takes a while to return calls or emails. Sometimes we simply forget. Again, remember your care is appreciated even when we forget to acknowledge it.
• The Area Office is a great resource and can answer many of your questions. Jeni has been wonderful and stays in close contact with us. Although we don’t want to inadvertently overwhelm her, do remember that she is available, too.

More information will be coming next week about the progress that’s being made here in Joplin as well as more ways you can reach out in care to those who were affected.

Meanwhile, Mary Lin (director of the Distribution Center at First Christian) let Jeni know today that we could use the following items: Bath towels, mops, cleaning supplies, glass cleaner, laundry detergent, laundry baskets, and Depends pads (not pull ups). We are overwhelmed with water and clothing, so please do not bring more of those items.

Thank you for being the body of Christ with us!

Rev. Jill Cameron Michel
South Joplin Christian Church