s emergency and rescue teams search for survivors of the terrorist attacks on September 11, Seventh-day Adventists in the United States and around the world are responding to the unfolding tragedy.
"Even in the face of this disaster, we cannot just throw our arms up in despair," said Pastor Jan Paulsen, president of the Adventist world church, at a special meeting today with staff at the church's world headquarters.
In an interview with Adventist News Network, Larry Colburn, assistant to the world church president, said Adventists can respond to the tragedies in a number of ways:
Appeal for prayer
"We are a praying people," says Colburn. "Already, Adventists around the world, from Kenya to Australia, Ivory Coast to Poland, are reporting their solidarity in prayer for those affected by this tragedy."
Local Adventist congregations are invited, wherever possible, to open their churches as places of prayer for their communities, reaching out to all those in need of pastoral care and to those who want to participate in a prayer vigil. "This is a time for coming together, for joining with all people of faith in prayer ministry," says Colburn.
"Let's pray both for the world's leaders, who are in need of Divine guidance," says Colburn, "and for the many thousands impacted by this tragedy, that they will feel the compassionate touch of our Lord, Jesus Christ."
Financial Contributions
The Adventist Development and Relief Agency International is receiving donations on behalf of a concerted Adventist response to this disaster. Aid being offered in New York City includes a special training seminar on dealing with critical incident stress and grief. Water and food is being supplied to rescue workers. Centers have been opened where water, food, and counseling is available.
In the greater Washington area, volunteer counseling teams have been organized and are assisting in the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) activities for the victims of the Pentagon tragedy.
Donations may be made by calling toll-free in the United States to 800-424-ADRA (2372). Outside of the US, call +301-680-6049.
Blood Donations
In the United States, Adventist Church members can respond to the national call for blood donors. News agencies are reporting the urgent need for blood supplies, and United States residents can participate by contacting their local blood collection facility.
--Adventist News Network
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