by Hanna Singh
Since 2008, the Louisiana Methodist Early Response Team has embodied its motto, “Providing a caring, Christian presence in the aftermath of disaster,” by supporting disaster survivors and aiding in the reconstruction of communities affected. This volunteer ministry joins together members from all walks of life, united by a commitment to serve others.
Over the past 16 years, the team has served communities in 15 states across the south central and southeastern United States. Responding to damage caused by floods, tornadoes, and hurricanes, the response team comes alongside disaster survivors to offer assistance in their recovery.
Some of their many tasks include mitigation practices like tarping roofs and mucking out homes, along with mildew and mold remediation practices. Often, the crew works with chainsaws to remove downed trees that are impeding folks access to property or their safety.
Team leader and pastor of Dubach Methodist Church, Rev. Bob Deich, described what he feels to be the most meaningful part of the organization’s efforts.
“The greatest work that we do is to sit and listen to people’s stories, as they have weathered the storm and are now dealing with the cleanup, often by themselves,” Deich said. “We have a special heart for the elderly and needy, and we have been blessed to serve many on this trip.”
On their most recent deployment, the team traveled to the mountains of Western North Carolina, where Hurricane Helene had left a trail of destruction. They joined forces with team members from Arkansas and Missouri to provide relief to survivors of the storm. This made their third deployment to aid in disaster relief from the same hurricane, following trips to South Georgia and the Florida panhandle.
The response team included three Lincoln Parish Residents: Jordan Holmes, Jr. Slocum, and Deich. They were hosted by fellow parish resident, Hollis Downs, who owns a home in the disaster area. Together, the volunteers removed over 700 tons of debris and delivered baked goods made by the ladies of Dubach Methodist Church, along with gift cards donated by local individuals and organizations. The baked goods brought unexpected hit with hurricane survivors, with one recipient sharing a heartful response to the gift.
“I bake things for neighbors and friends all the time and these are the best cookies I’ve ever had,” the recipient said. “I can taste love in them.”
For the volunteers, the disaster response is more than just a task, it feels like a calling. One of the volunteer team members, Don Allen, shared his reason for devoting time and energy to the cause.
“There is a sermon in every job we do,” Allen said. “It’s like church outside of church. I can show people what Christians are like without preaching to them.”
Team member Ken Hall echoed this sentiment by describing how he feels his skills can help others.
“I believe we are all called to help people who are hurting and in need of help. Disaster response is a way I feel called to serve and uses some of the skills I have been equipped with,” Hall said. “I enjoy working with like-minded people who have a heart for serving others. It is a joy being able to help storm survivors in some small way.”
The different ways of aiding in relief show how even the simplest of actions, such as providing baked goods, can have such an impact on others. The team members know that although they make a big difference through physical work, they don’t have to run a piece of heavy equipment to show the love of Christ to those who are hurting.
The Louisiana Methodist Early Response Team’s devoted work demonstrates how a combination of physical labor, emotional support, and simple acts of kindness can show God’s love to those facing overwhelming loss. Just a small group of caring volunteers can make an enormous difference in the hearts and lives of others.
For more information about the Louisiana Methodist Early Response Team or to support their mission, contact Dubach Methodist Church or visit their Facebook page (1) Facebook.
