Michigan Area Haiti Task Force
The Michigan Area Haiti Task Force requests that everyone take time on Saturday, Jan. 16, to be in prayer for the people of Haiti.
Wednesday, Jan. 13 - Message From Michigan Area Haiti Task Force
From the Rev. R. Paul Doherty, Chairperson of the Michigan Area Task Force:
"As you probably have already heard - the country of Haiti has experienced a devastating 7.0-magnitude earthquake and there are reports now coming from Haiti that there has been numerous fatalities and terrible destruction. I want to encourage everyone to lift up the people of Haiti in your prayers as this country faces a tragedy beyond our contemplation.
What I do know for sure is the Detroit Confererence VIM team, led by Rev. Don Gotham, that they are all fine and that there has been no damage in the Jeremie Circuit where they have been working. We thank God for their contunued safety and well being. It is not yet been determined if they will return to the U.S. this coming Friday because it is being reported that there has been damage to the airport in Port-au-Prince.
I will be talking with UMCOR tomorrow and will keep each and everyone of you informed as to what action is being planned to help bring relief and supplies to Haiti.
I do sincerely trust that you will pray for our brothers and sisters. It is my understanding that all the pastors were in Port-au-Prince when the earthquake happened; so far no word on their condition.
I can only assume that, like the Jeremie Circuit, the Cayes Circuit did not experience any damage but remember in your prayers Virginia and Jack Bell who are now serving in Cayes.
We all have close friends and deep ties of fellowship with the Haitian community -- our school children, the children at Grace Childrens Hospital, the Methodist Children's Home and so many, many other connections of love built over so many years of partnership in mission. We share with them the assurance of our love and support; and openly express our tears with them."