Siblings in Christ,

Late on Thursday evening, several communities within our Synod experienced storm damage from tornadoes and high winds. We continue to hold these communities in prayer, especially Russells Point & Lakeview.

Cleanup crews have been hard at work since the storms since the storms cleared on Thursday night. There is still much work to be done.

I have been in regular contact with Pr. Karen Torrez (Galilee Lutheran Church, Russells Point) and Lutheran Disaster Response, to coordinate a response that meets the most immediate needs.

Indian Lake High School is serving as Command Center for the response. This afternoon, Galilee Lutheran Church is receiving a variety of categories of supplies to continue serving as a Distribution Center for the community.

Local authorities are still requesting that those who want to help continue to hold off as roads are still being cleared and should be used for EMS, First Responders, and supply vehicles. If you are curious for ways to help, please be in touch with the Southern Ohio Synod Office for more information.

If you would like to donate to the relief efforts across our Synod, you may:

1. Mail a check to the Southern Ohio Synod’s P.O. Box
2. Donate online, designating it for “SOS – Disaster Relief”

Thank you all for your prayers and your willingness to serve your neighbors! We are Stronger and Better Together … Joining Jesus in the Restoration of the World.

In Christ,
Bishop Dillahunt