An Official Response from the Ministry Council of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church to the Middle Tennessee Tornadoes of March 3, 2020.
In the early hours of March 3, 2020, middle Tennessee awakened to the frightening sounds of several tornadoes and their devastation. Although none of the Cumberland Presbyterian Churches or Cumberland Presbyterian Churches in America in the affected area were physically damaged, many lives have been affected by this tragedy.
Many have asked, “How can we help? Can I give money?” The Missions Ministry Team (MMT) does receive donations to assist with natural disasters around the world. However, there is not a Denomination Relief Fund or anything similar. Because MMT is not a first responder, our help comes after the initial crisis has passed. Once the news cameras have moved on to other things, that is when our assistance is often felt by those in need.
In the US and in countries where we have missionaries, we first contact pastors and missionaries to see if they have access to effective ways to help people impacted by the disaster. If they do not have access to those suffering, they suggest others that do. We can then share our resources with those organizations. In countries where we do not have missionaries, we have to depend on reputable non-profit organizations to take our resources and use them for the benefit of those impacted.
According to Christian Smith, pastor of the Cookeville Cumberland Presbyterian Church, three families have completely lost their homes. We also grieve with them the loss of one of their members. When asked how the church at large could help, Rev. Smith stated that the there is much to assess at this time and prayers are the most needed. People are just now getting access to their residences to see what can be saved.
Rev. Smith also stated that volunteers are heavy in number at this time. However, a week from now and in the future will be when help will be needed in the form of monetary donations, supplies and workers. Groups within the denomination wanting to help with future trips are encouraged to reach out to the pastor or to Rev. Kristi Lounsbury, Director of Congregational Ministries to coordinate these efforts.
Nashville and its surrounding areas were also hit hard by the series of tornadoes. Once again, some of the church members have had substantial damage to their properties. Nashville and Mount Juliet have posted links on Facebook for those who want to volunteer to help in the clean-up effort.
In addition, West Nashville Cumberland Presbyterian Church has issued a formal statement regarding specific material needs. This information can be found at the following link: https://mailchi.mp/dad192ee10e1/nashvillestrong?e=%5BUNIQID%5D&fbclid=IwAR2hcsTamtc5DKuza2ydfOz8g1Y8Lja_jBKTeUoCre37xSomKQlNnj2CQDQ
