We all are in shock over the tragic tornado damage and loss of life in Oklahoma. Please remember those families and first-responders in your prayers. The Kentucky Baptist DR team is communicating with those on the ground to assess if and how Kentucky can help. This email went out this morning:

At the present, efforts are focusing on search and rescue; and search and recovery. At the present time, we are not needed on the ground, and the possibility exists that we could not be called on due to the strong disaster relief presence of Oklahoma Baptists and neighboring states. I would encourage you to monitor your email as we will continue to work with leaders and will let you know if Kentucky Baptists are needed to help those who have suffered great loss in the Midwest.

Leaders on the ground have expressed that the best way we can help at the present is to pray for those affected and to give monetary donations for disaster relief efforts with those affected. Donations for relief efforts and the affected can be given through the Kentucky Baptist Convention or the North American Mission Board. Information on how you can donate will be posted at http://www.kybaptist.org/dr shortly.

Please stop now and pray for these who have suffered such loss and for those on the ground responding. Pray for the strong and gracious hand of God to reach to the many hurting.

At the present, I would continue to urge you as Kentucky Baptists, the best way to assist our neighbors in Oklahoma are to:

· Pray. Pray for the healing hand of God, for His grace to wash over those affected, and for those who are on the ground serving at the request of the response.

· Give. Your monetary donations are critical and do make a difference in people’s lives. These gifts allow the disaster response to meet specific needs in the best ways, and to get critical help to those reeling from this tragedy. You can donate to Oklahoma disaster relief efforts at:

http://www.kybaptist.org/dr

http://www.okdisasterhelp.com/

http://www.namb.net/

You can also donate to the American Red Cross to help those in Oklahoma and elsewhere when disaster strikes.