SBC Voices

Helping Those Who Help in Tragedy

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I contacted Southbury Baptist Church, which Baptist Press said was on the front lines of our efforts to minister to the Newtown Community. It is, I believe, the closest Southern Baptist church to Sandy Hook. I received a letter from John Rowe a few days later (I’m guessing they are inundated) and I would share this letter with the Voices community. There are some prayer requests and information on more tangible help. Here is John’s letter:

___________________________________

Mr. Miller

My name is John Rowe and I am heading up the response to the contacts that we are receiving. Forgive me for the delay in the response but as you can imagine we have been inundated with support messages and messages offering services.

Thank you so much for thinking about us, taking time to send us a message and most importantly – for praying for us. Prayer is always appreciated, especially during immense suffering. It is an unimaginable tragedy but we are trusting that it is also great opportunity to share the name and love of Christ. We are trusting that the LORD will open great doors in what has been a traditionally difficult area of ministry.
I am sure that we will have multiple stories to share as we continue to process. I was in Newtown on Friday afternoon, my pastor (Bryan) was there on Saturday and several others in our church were there as well including several that work in the area. We will look into gathering some info/stories for you. In the meantime…
Here is a quick list of prayer requests and if you would like we are beginning a weekly prayer email in regards to the latest needs. If you would like to be included please let me know and I will make sure that you are on the list. Please continue to pray for us
  • Grace and healing for the families of victims and the Newtown community
  • Opportunities for chaplains and pastors to make connections and minister to those who are hurting
  • Long-term opportunities for ministry
If your church or anyone in the congregation would like to donate to our denomination’s response to this tragedy:

BCNE Victim Relief Fund
BCNE, 87 Lincoln St, Northborough, MA 01532

If your church or anyone in the congregation would like to write cards of sympathy and support to the community, please address them to Southbury Baptist Church, 114 Roxbury Road, Southbury CT 06488-1234.  We will distribute to the community.  If you would like to address a certain group like (ex. teachers, first responders, etc), please indicate so on the envelope. 

Grace and peace,
John B. Rowe, M.Div., M.S.W.
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