Video: ‘Look what God can do’


An East Tennessee pastor says God guided her congregation to respond to the needs of families displaced by Hurricane Helene. The Rev. Sarah Varnell, pastor of Trinity United Methodist Church, says the church’s response started small and has grown into a community-wide effort, with the church becoming a safe place for people to come and get supplies. “Look what God can do,” she said.

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Elias Torres cleans up flood damage from Hurricane Helene at Cedar Key (Fla.) United Methodist Church. Photo by Mike DuBose, UM News. 

Florida churches begin Helene recovery efforts

United Methodists across the southeastern U.S. are responding in communities that were devastated by Hurricane Helene. UM News photographer Mike DuBose traveled with church leaders and relief workers in Florida this week to document as they began assessing damage and planning relief efforts.
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A view of Valle Crucis United Methodist Church in Valle Crucis, N.C., shows water over the stairs of the entryway after flooding caused by Hurricane Helene devastated western North Carolina and other parts of the southeastern United States last week. Bishop Ken Carter, who leads the Western North Carolina Conference, said it’s estimated that more than half of the 44 counties in the annual conference have been affected. Photo courtesy of the Western North Carolina Conference. 

United Methodists offer relief after Helene

Church members are beginning the long, slow recovery following Helene’s devastating storm surge and flooding in the southeastern U.S. Conferences are busy supporting survivors.
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Disaster Relief
Suzette Marzo with the United Methodist Young Adult Fellowship prepares to distribute food to children during a relief operation in Sarangani province, Philippines, after a deadly 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Southern Mindanao on June 8, leaving many in the region displaced. The efforts were led by Central United Methodist Church of General Santos City. Photo courtesy of Marife Cambel.

Relief reaches hard-hit areas after earthquake

The United Methodist Church in the Philippines and church partners have provided food, supplies and spiritual care to more than 700 families following deadly quake.
Faith Stories
The Rev. Andrea Byer Thomas makes therapeutic soaps and creams to soothe skin allergies. Photos courtesy of Handmade Luxuries.

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