Charlotte, N.C., Feb. 9, 2017—Crisis-trained chaplains with the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team have deployed to New Orleans to assist in recovery efforts following this week’s devastating tornadoes. It has been reported that seven different tornadoes were confirmed in the southeast portion of Louisiana, hitting at least six parishes. While widespread property damage has been reported throughout the region, it appears that no lives were lost in the storms.
“We’ve responded to several tornado disasters over the years, and it always amazes me to see the level of destruction that can result,” said Jack Munday, international director of the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team. “So many families have been uprooted and devastated by the multiple tornadoes that ripped through the area. In the blink of an eye all that they had and held dear was gone. We’re incredibly grateful that no deaths have been reported, but we also understand that those impacted have a long road ahead of them.”
The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team is deploying in coordination with Samaritan’s Purse, the Christian disaster relief organization which is also led by Franklin Graham. Together the two ministries will address the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of those who have been affected.
Graham shared on his Facebook page, “We will be helping families pick back up after the storms destroyed so much… As our staff and volunteers help in Jesus’ Name, we want storm victims to know that ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble’ (Psalm 46:1). Will you pray for the injured and those who have lost their homes?”
The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team continues to work in other areas of the Southeast that have been impacted by volatile weather in 2017, including Albany, Ga., and Hattiesburg / Petal, Miss.
For more information on the ministry, including videos, photos, news articles and an interactive map of former and current deployments, visit www.billygraham.org/rrt. Updates can also be found at www.facebook.com/RRTChaplains.
About the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team
The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team was developed by Franklin Graham
and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association following the attacks of
Sept. 11, 2001. It has since grown into a nationwide network of
chaplains in 48 states who are specifically trained to deal with crisis
situations. They have deployed to approximately 245 disaster sites,
including shootings, floods, hurricanes, wildfires and tornadoes.
Media Contact:
Erik Ogren
(704) 401-2117
eogren@bgea.org