ELCA synod bishop says hope remains in tornado-ravaged town

CHICAGO (ELCA) --Although there are still signs of devastation one
year later throughout Joplin, Mo., hope remains, said the Rev. Gerald L.
Mansholt, bishop of the Central States Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran
Church in America (ELCA).
The United States' deadliest tornado in six decades struck Joplin in
the afternoon of May 22, 2011. Thousands of homes, businesses and church
buildings were reduced to rubble, including Peace Lutheran Church, an
ELCA congregation there.
"Joplin is a place of hope and healing," said Mansholt. "It's a
community where people have pulled together. The Christian community has
been a great source of comfort and encouragement through their own
witness and service and in helping the community of Joplin to rebuild."
Known as a church that rolls up its sleeves and gets to work, the
ELCA and its members responded generously with prayers and financial
support immediately after the tornado. Today, ELCA members continue to
provide spiritual care for children and families, coordinate the work of
volunteers and assess and meet the long-term needs of the community.
At Peace Lutheran, the Rev. Katharine Redpath has provided a strong
pastoral presence, said Mansholt. The congregation held an outdoor
anniversary service May 20, where members focused on their journey and
that of their community.
"I've been at Peace Lutheran in recent months, leading worship and
spending time with the congregation," said Mansholt. And while they have
a long way to go in discerning their future, whether or not to rebuild,
hope remains, he said.
Gifts to ELCA Disaster Response at
https://community.ELCA.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=358 enable this church to
respond when disaster strikes. Volunteer information is available at
http://www.ELCA.org/Our-Faith-In-Action/Responding-to-the-World/Disaster-Response/Volunteer.aspx.