United Methodists Wear Bracelets to Support Rebuilding Churches and Communities

NASHVILLE - As a symbol of continued solidarity and commitment to the communities devastated by Hurricane Katrina, United Methodists can wear bracelets sharing the Katrina Church Recovery Appeal logo, “rebuilding churches and communities.”

Money from purchases of the maroon wristbands will support the appeal made by the bishops of The United Methodist Church, mobilizing church members to participate in long-term recovery efforts to the region devastated by Katrina last summer.

With members scattered and buildings destroyed, many churches in the affected areas still seek the assistance of caring United Methodists to restore their mission and ministries.

The appeal focuses on the needs of clergy, church staff and mission personnel in the affected areas and on the United Methodist facilities—churches, retreat centers, urban ministries, retirement facilities and mission centers—that were severely damaged or destroyed. Many were underinsured, with insufficient coverage for damage due to rising water.

Wristbands are $2 each, with free shipping for orders of 50 or more. Order them by calling toll free (888) 346-3862 or online at www.umc.org/churchrecovery. Churches are encouraged to sell the bracelets as a local fundraiser.

In addition to purchasing bracelets, contributions to the Katrina Church Recovery Appeal can also be made online via credit card or through local church offerings labeled “Bishops’ Appeal 818-001.”

The Council of Bishops have asked congregations to take a special offering for the Katrina Church Recovery Appeal Aug. 27, the Sunday closest to the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina’s first strike to the United States coast on Aug. 25, 2006.