Tornadoes Impact Dioceses in Midwest and South

March 9, 2012

Two series of tornadoes struck the Midwest and South on February 28-29 and March 2-3, impacting towns and congregations in many Episcopal dioceses. Some affected areas are still recovering from the devastating tornadoes of April 2011.

A total of 39 people died in the storms that hit a wide swath of the South and Midwest on March 2-3, causing severe damage in Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio.

The February 28-29 storms caused 13 deaths and significant damage in Tennessee, Missouri, Kansas and Illinois.

Episcopal Relief & Development has reached out to a number of Episcopal dioceses in affected areas, including the dioceses of East Tennessee, Alabama, West Missouri, Kentucky, Lexington, Indianapolis, Springfield and Southern Ohio.

At this time, Episcopal Relief & Development encourages prayers for all those who have been affected by these storms, especially those who lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods. Please also pray for the first responders who are putting their lives at risk to help others, and for Episcopal clergy and lay leaders who are preparing to help their communities rebuild.

At this time, contributions to the US Disaster Response Fund will support response and recovery efforts in tornado-impacted communities. Donations are accepted online, over the phone at 1.855.312.HEAL (4325) or via mail by sending a check to Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.