One of my friends, Rev. Dr. Adam Koontz, has started a Go Fund Me campaign to bring aid to the people of East Palestine, Ohio, and its surrounding communities in the wake of the devastation after the Norfolk Southern derailment.

From the Go Fund Me page:

Show the people of East Palestine and the surrounding towns in Ohio and Pennsylvania the love of Christ. All donations will go to purchasing and shipping water, food, and other necessities to these towns devasted by the Norfolk Southern derailment. We are working with Brittain Motors, Inc., East Palestine’s Chevrolet dealer, to get water and food on the ground in East Palestine.

This is a united effort of Lutheran Christians to show God’s love and blessing to people who have been struck down by life like the man who fell among thieves was struck down on his way. We don’t want to walk by like the priest and the Levite but kneel down to help like the good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37).

Lent began on Ash Wednesday, in which is read this from the Gospel of St. Matthew: “ . . . when you give to the needy . . . when you pray . . . when you fast . . .” (Matt 6:1–21). Thus, throughout the history of the Christian Church, the season of Lent has focused on these three things: giving to the needy, prayer, and fasting. This is an opportunity that God has given you during this time to take up the discipline of giving to others as God has given to you.

Please consider giving to those in need by making a contribution HERE.