PRESS RELEASE
May 22, 2013
Associated Churches logo
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Charlene Rorick
Communications Coordinator
Associated Churches
w. 260.422.3528x105
c. 260-579-7599
charlene@associatedchurches.org
Churches advised to "Pray, Pay, Stay." 
Response to Oklahoma Tornadoes
FORT WAYNE, IN - Rev. Roger Reece, Executive Pastor of Associated Churches of Fort Wayne and Allen County, is advising that congregations and their members continue to "Pray, pay, and stay" in response to the disaster in Moore, Oklahoma.  

"Ask God to be with the victims and responders. May the recovery be quick, according to His will," instructs Reece.  
 
Reece said that monetary donations are absolutely the best way to help tornado victims in the short term. He reminded Christians that many denominations have their own disaster response organizations to which they can donate. He also recommended that donors visit the website of National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, where more than 50 organizations, many with religious affiliations, can be found. The webpage address is www.nvoad.org/members.

As difficult as it is, Reece advised Christians to stay where they are unless they are responding in coordination with a relief organization, such as a NVOAD member.
 
Associated Churches currently plans no collections of non-monetary donations, because relief organizations can buy needed goods at lower prices with donated dollars. In addition, sending money instead of goods reduces transportation and distribution costs.

Associated Churches of Fort Wayne and Allen County was founded in 1944 and includes 135 churches as members. Its primary ministries include the Neighborhood Food Network, A Baby's Closet, Rising Stars, and Military Families.

 

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