NASHVILLE-AREA TORNADO UPDATE (March 4, 2020)
As you know, devastating tornadoes struck Nashville and Cookeville, TN and surrounding areas early yesterday morning. A number of fatalities have been confirmed (at least 22 at this time), with more anticipated in the coming days. News photos and videos have revealed the scope and devastation of the disaster, with hundreds of structures severely damaged or destroyed by what the National Weather Service estimates to have been an EF-3 tornado.
In the face of such destruction, I am grateful to share that LCMS congregations in the affected areas escaped with only minor damage to a few structures. However, some congregations do have members and workers whose homes sustained significant damage, or were completely destroyed. Both LCMS Disaster Response and Lutheran Church Charities are currently mobilizing to have personnel in the area immediately to assist these individuals and the thousands of others impacted by this terrible storm. Search and rescue operations will continue before any cleanup measures can begin.
HOW CAN YOU AND YOUR CONGREGATION HELP?
As the bleak aftermath of this disaster unfolds, our first and most significant response is with prayer. Please pray for those who are still missing, those who are part of the difficult search effort, and those who are mourning victims of this devastating storm.
To assist with the relief effort, the Mid-South District has established a fund designated for “Nashville Tornado Response.” Donations directed to this fund will be used exclusively for relief efforts in the affected areas. If you or any member of your congregation would like to contribute to the fund for Nashville Tornado Response, you may make a gift online or by check payable to the Mid-South District Office / 1675 Wynne Road / Cordova TN 38016. Please note “Nashville Tornado Response” on any gifts sent by check.
GIVE to “Nashville Tornado Response”.
Thank you for the many calls, texts and emails to confirm the safety of our brothers and sisters in Christ in the Nashville area. Praise God for such a compassionate and caring group of pastors and congregations in our District and Synod!
In Christ,
Rev. Dr. Roger Paavola
President, Mid-South District LCMS
