Our hearts break as we hear the news and see the reports of the devastation caused by the earthquake which stuck Haiti earlier this week.

Patsy and I had life-changing experiences on mission trips to Haiti. Our hearts go out to our Haitian brothers and sisters. I am thrilled that our North Alabama Conference mission and disaster response ministry led by Rev. Matt Lacey is prepared for this crisis and is responding immediately. I ask all of our churches to do what they can to participate in this effort.

Specifically I ask that each church hold a special time of prayer for Haiti this Sunday, January 17, 2010, during worship and to receive a special offering for the United Methodist Committee on Relief's (UMCOR) work in Haiti. You may send this offering to our Conference Treasurer's Office who will forward it to UMCOR. Mark your church's check "Haiti Response."

I also encourage churches to collect supplies for Health Kits. This is a wonderful way Sunday School classes, youth groups, children’s groups, United Methodist Women groups and others can work together to be in ministry to the people of Haiti. You may visit our Conference websitefor the list of Health Kit contents as well as drop off locations within our Annual Conference.

Thank you for your generosity and willingness to respond during times of disaster.
Bishop William H. Willimon