Responding together to the floods
In early December, a powerful series of winter storms and “atmospheric river” rain events brought devastating flooding, landslides, and wind damage across Washington State, as well as parts of the Idaho Panhandle and British Columbia. Thousands of people have been affected, evacuations are ongoing, and communities remain at risk from floodwaters, mudslides, and changing conditions. In response, the Governor of Washington has declared a State of Emergency, and the National Guard has been activated to assist with evacuation efforts.
Amid this unfolding crisis, United Methodist churches across our region are already responding. Congregations are opening their doors to evacuees, offering parking for displaced families, distributing relief supplies, and partnering with local response agencies to meet immediate needs. This is holy, faithful work—and it is happening now.
We invite you to respond with urgency and generosity by supporting the Pacific Northwest Conference Disaster Fund (Advance #352) or the UMCOR Advance #901670. Gifts to these funds help provide immediate assistance to evacuees and survivors, as well as prepare for continued response, including the possible deployment of Early Response Teams as conditions allow.
As we move through the Advent and Christmas season, in addition to your prayers, your gifts are a tangible way to embody our hope, compassion, and love for our neighbors in need. Churches may wish to receive a special offering during worship, including Christmas services, or encourage individual and household giving.
You can give online at https://pnwumc.org/floodresponse, or make an offline gift through your local church or by mailing a check made payable to the PNW Conference Treasurer, with Conference Advance #352 noted on the memo line, to:
Pacific Northwest Conference Office
c/o Conference Treasurer
P.O. Box 13650
Des Moines, WA 98198
Thank you for being the church—present, responsive, and grounded in Christ’s love—when it matters most.
Bishop Cedrick D. Bridgeforth