As the nation observes the anniversary of the Hurricane Katrina disaster, parishes in the diocese may decide to use the occasion to prepare disaster plans for themselves for unforeseen catastrophes.
So far, the diocesan office and ten diocesan churches have created disaster plans so they will be ready to act on short notice.
“We know people turn to the churches in their communities during times of need,” said diocesan disaster coordinator Bill Lindsay. “And clergy will have their hands full and will need a plan for assistance.”
When the James River flooded June 27, members of Trinity, Buchanan acted quickly to prepare food and shelter for any who might need it. They have acted many times previously as a temporary emergency shelter including during flooding in 2004 and the flood of 1985 where some evacuees stayed at the church over two weeks.
“Almost all of our town emergency responders are volunteers,” said Trinity’s senior warden Maryanne Meloy. Like many small towns, Buchanan counts on its town volunteers for leadership during disasters. “We are a small community where everybody pitches in to take care of anyone who needs help,” said Meloy.
Meloy believes the service her parish provides to the community is a ministry. When the Hotel Botetourt Home for Adults burned in 1997, Meloy was reminded of the importance of the church’s assistance.
“I know I have become deeper, more tender, by singing ‘Jesus Loves Me’ with a mentally disabled woman to her doll for four straight hours after she lost everything in that fire when I really thought, at first, I should be washing all those pots and pans!” said Meloy.
Churches play a key role in rural areas because the Red Cross does not have the resources to operate temporary shelters in every small town when a disaster strikes. And when a big disaster happens, even larger cities and towns need additional helpers and shelter space that churches can provide.
The diocese has become a member of VOAD, Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster. During the June flooding across Virginia, VOAD coordinated local requests for volunteers and provided updates on state-wide and local emergency response. If any parish in the diocese needs additional volunteers during a disaster, the diocese could call on the VOAD network for assistance.
“When a disaster strikes, we know churches will be used. The question is, will they be ready?” //

The diocesan disaster plan and tips for preparation can be found at dioswva.org. For more information, contact Bill Lindsay at Evans House, 540-342-6797.