Since the hurricanes of 2005 ravaged the Gulf Coast, Christian Outreach International has maintained an active disaster presence ministering to the many needs of Gulf Coast residents. Ministering to the emotional and spiritual needs, as well as the physical needs, is essential to fulfilling the mission of C.O.I.

Over the past year and a half, hundreds of C.O.I. staff and volunteers have stepped up to the plate to minister to the immense needs along the coast. Many have returned multiple times to serve, and as the months go by, we are finding that our pool of available groups is depleting, while the emotional, spiritual and physical needs intensify as people face immense loss and increasing stress.

Our commitment to New Orleans residents continues, and we are praying that God will send willing and compassionate people from the faith communities we are connected with to minister on our outreach teams in the upcoming months.

There is perhaps no greater arena for the public display of Christians in action than through the Church’s response to disasters. In these times of crisis, families need the demonstrated love of the body of Christ. This is where the Church plays a pivotal role in coming alongside these people by actively demonstrating a compassionate ministry presence.

The organization we work with in New Orleans has personally begged me to bring as many C.O.I. groups as we can this spring and summer. Just in the neighborhood where we have worked, there are still about 6000 houses to gut! Other families are moving back and desperately need our help to get settled in again. Every age bracket in your outreach team will have something to do.

I am very thankful for all the teams that went to over 8 sites last summer. Thank you for going out with C.O.I.! We are operating many sites again this summer, but I feel led to ask you to please prayerfully consider bringing a group to New Orleans any time between now and August.

They are asking for us; they are asking for YOU! It is not too late for you to plan a Spring Break Trip or a Summer Trip. From my heart – let’s not stop going to help our brothers and sisters in the Gulf Coast while the need is so great! I am asking you to prayerfully consider clearing your schedule for a week during the Spring or Summer months – and gather a group to come on an outreach with C.O.I. in New Orleans.

Thank you for your love and for your help. We look forward to hearing from you soon. Lesley would be glad to answer your questions, or schedule your trip. Call her soon.

I have committed to the people in New Orleans that we will be active there for the next three summers. There is that much to do! I hope you and your church can take an active role, or somewhere in our hurting world before the year is out.

Yours in reaching cities for Christ