WHEREAS, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita devastated coastal areas of Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas in 2005; and
WHEREAS, Many citizens of these states have experienced the destruction of their homes, and thousands continue to live with family members and friends, and in hotels and other temporary quarters; and
WHEREAS, Our Southern Baptist churches and other churches have experienced the tremendous loss of their properties and many members of their congregations; and
WHEREAS, Southern Baptist churches and other churches and religious agencies were in the forefront of care for evacuees and reconstruction of homes and places of worship; and
WHEREAS, Southern Baptist disaster relief organizations were among the first responders in the wake of the storms, providing food, water, supplies, and comfort to people in need; and
WHEREAS, Southern Baptist volunteers and agencies continue to minister on the front lines of disaster relief in those areas most affected by the storms; and
WHEREAS, This ministry to storm victims has demonstrated the love of God and was accomplished for His glory alone; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the messengers to the Southern Baptist Convention meeting in Greensboro, North Carolina, June 13-14, 2006, do hereby enthusiastically affirm the Southern Baptist disaster relief agencies and volunteers; and be it further
RESOLVED, That we express our gratitude to the thousands of Southern Baptists and other volunteers who gave of themselves unselfishly to help people in the devastated areas in their time of need; and be it further
RESOLVED, That we thank the many Southern Baptist churches and others that opened their doors to receive evacuees and to minister to them both in word and deed; and be it further
RESOLVED, That we encourage all churches to help with the rebuilding efforts in the region so that Jesus Christ may be gloried; and be it finally
RESOLVED, That we recommit ourselves as Southern Baptists to pray diligently for our brothers and sisters and fellow citizens who seek to rebuild their lives and livelihoods in the midst of difficult circumstances.