God in New Orleans.

"When Abba Anthony thought about the depth of the judgments of God,
he asked, 'Lord, how is it that some die when they are young, while others
drag on to extreme old age? Why are there those who are poor and those
who are rich? Why do wicked men prosper and why are the just in need?'
He heard a voice answering him, 'Anthony, keep your attention on
yourself. These things are according to the judgment of God, and it is
not to your advantage to know anything about them.'"

From the Apophthegmata Patrum -- the Sayings of the Desert Fathers.
This version was translated by Sr. Benedicta Ward.

I am tired of the finger pointing. The facts will come out in time, and the agenda’s of certain people. It does appear that the local authorities made some bad choices and dithered too much. Let’s all do what we can to alleviate the situation.

I believe this disaster is both a sign of judgment and an opportunity for blessing. Such is often the case.

I’m so glad to hear of the amazing responses on the ground of many American’s helping out others, and of thousands of families being housed by Churches all over the country.

One wonderful example comes from some friends of mine at a “biker” Church – I created and manage their website. Follow the next link to read how they helped one family in a big way. God Bless these folks!

http://www.godsrollingthunder.com/katrina.html

Christianity Today has a page of helps and articles at:

http://www.christianitytoday.com/ctmag/special/katrina.html


To give online try:

http://www.operationblessing.com/

http://www.worldvision.org/

http://www.samaritanspurse.org/

Here is a prayer too:

"O blessed Lord; you ministered to all who came to you: Look with compassion upon all who have been displaced and sent into exile by this tragic natural disaster. Enable them to know your presence, the warmth of your embrace and the fullness of your love. Restore to them assurance of your unfailing mercy; remove from them the fears, anxiety and loneliness that beset them; strengthen them in spirit, hope and faith; and to those who care and provide for them,
give patience, compassion, strength, care and love. Amen."
[adapted from The Book of Common Prayer]