Jacksonville Chapel/Emergence

By now, you know about the devastation that is being experienced by the people of Haiti. A massive 7.0 earthquake occurred only 16 miles from the nation's capital, Port-au-Prince on January 12 just before 5:00pm, Haitian time.

Millions of people have been affected and tens of thousands of people have died in the aftermath of the event.

We grieve alongside those affected by the tragedy, and it is our desire to help in any way possible. This Sunday, January 17th, we will have an opportunity to help, even from afar.

At the end of all Jacksonville Chapel services, we will receive an offering that will be given completely to the work of relief in Haiti.

This offering is over and above our needs here at home, and we ask that you prayerfully consider what kind of sacrifice you can make for the people of Haiti.

After considering a great number of places to send our donations, the Chapel has decided to split the offering between two places we greatly admire and trust: Samaritan's Purse and Bethany Christian Services.

Samaritan's Purse is an international organization that regularly engages in relief efforts while giving all of the glory to Jesus. Many people and churches are contributing to their work, and we are thrilled to join them in the efforts.

Bethany Christian Services is an international adoption agency (based right here in NJ) who actively partners with and helps facilitate two orphanages in greater Port-au-Prince. These orphanages were hit extremely hard by the earthquake, and out of concern for safety, the kids and adults are now sleeping in the driveway as the aftershocks continue. Their proximity to the capital and their capacity to help--especially help the children of Port-au-Prince--make them a prime candidate for our help.

Please come Sunday ready to help the people in this devastated country.

UPDATE: JANUARY 19, 2010
What a weekend! After all of the offerings were collected and counted, through the generosity of more than 2,000 people who attended the Chapel this weekend, over $37,000 was collected for the people of Haiti. It is a privilege to be able to contribute to the great work going on there. Please continue in prayer for the people of Haiti. Rebuilding the nation would be great. Rebuilding the hearts of the people is far greater.