Pure religion in Haiti
February 4, 2010
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February 3, 2010
It is a scene we have witnessed before: when lives are devastated by disaster, the best of humanity surfaces as many set aside personal conveniences, agendas and interests to selflessly take part in what the Bible describes as pure religion--"to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction..."
Offers of help poured into my own church by the thousands - and we are just one organization among many. "I used to be a missionary there and speak Creole. How can I help?" Or, "I am a doctor and can leave right now if you can get me a seat on a plane."
While other relief agencies and governments marshaled their many responses, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints mobilized humanitarian resources immediately once word reached its Salt Lake City headquarters. Sometimes we worked with NGOs or other faith groups or charities, sometimes we worked on our own, handling relief efforts through our emergency relief stores in the Dominican Republic, or through Miami or Denver, or in any other way we could make it work. Immediate needs continue to be met with emergency shipments, while long-term needs are being assessed. We all know that it will take years to rebuild.
But there was something else that struck me as the relief effort gathered strength. While the first need was rescue and medical care, followed by food, water and tents, what the Haitians needed in addition was relief from the sense of hopelessness as they weathered the storm.
This statement from my own church leadership captured something for me:
"Money is not the only need in Haiti. People are frightened, bewildered, and wholly uncertain about their future. In addition to what people can do in helping with food, water and shelter, there needs to be a calming influence over that troubled nation. We invite people everywhere to supplicate God for a spirit of calm and peace among the people."
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