God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1

OPC Disaster Response

A disaster (fire, flood, tornado, hurricane, earthquake, or the like) can lead to a tremendously difficult season in the lives of its victims. Sometimes, the victims are members of the church.  In these instances, by virtue of our belief in the doctrine of the Communion of the Saints, we are compelled to “relieve each other in outward things, according to (our) several abilities and necessities” (WCF XXVI:2). As we are able, we seek to relieve each other! Other times, the victims are not members of the church.  These are opportunities for us to follow the Lord’s command that we “love our neighbor as ourselves,” and serve others as a reflection of the mercy and compassion that has been shown to us in Christ Jesus.

The History of OPC Disaster Response:

It was in 2005, following the OPC's relief efforts following Hurricane Katrina, that it became evident that a permanent disaster response ministry and coordinator was needed in the OPC. Read more.

The Stated Purpose of OPC Disaster Response:

"To demonstrate the love and compassion of Christ in very tangible ways to those with whom the OPC has contact, who are suffering from the effects of a disaster.”

When Disaster Strikes:

The Committee on Diaconal Ministries stands ready to lead the OPC in responding to disasters that impact OPC property or members directly, or are of a magnitude such that they impact 10,000 persons or more. When such an incident occurs, we will communicate all of the details regarding the OPC's response efforts, including procedures for joining a disaster response team:

• On this website
• On the OPC Disaster Response Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages.
• In Special Editions of the S.T.O.R.M. Report

Please feel free to notify us directly at [email protected] if you have details or updates on any ongoing disaster, or with any needs, questions, or concerns.

How to Donate:

Click here if you wish to make a donation towards disaster relief.

Current Opportunities to Serve:

Click here to look for opportunities to serve with OPC Disaster Response.

A Christian Response to Disaster:

Click here to read about what makes the church's response to disaster unique.

Tips on Organizing a Team from Your Church:

Click here for some pointers from a veteran team leader.

Slideshow: OPC Response to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria

Click here for a pictorial review of OPC Disaster Response on the one-year anniversary of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria.

Video: Hurricane Harvey Testimonial

Click here to view a brief testimony from homeowners who were served by OPC Disaster Response volunteers.

News and Archives:

Click here for all Disaster Response posts.

Contact:

David Nakhla Disaster Response Coordinator Administrator, Committee on Diaconal Ministries The Orthodox Presbyterian Church 607 N. Easton Rd, Bldg E, Willow Grove, PA 19090 Primary Phone: Cell (562) 760-7606 Secondary Phone: Office (215) 935-1007 Skype: david.p.nakhla [email protected] [email protected] OPC Disaster Response at Facebook