What is Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR)?
LDR’s role is a collaborative ministry that seeks to minister holistically to the unmet needs of those affected by disasters. Hal Shope says, “You cannot just build a house,” so LDR also addresses the physical, emotional and spiritual needs for children and adults who are victims of disasters. Whereas FEMA, the Red Cross, and other organizations respond at the beginning of a disaster, LDR remains on the scene helping those in need when other agencies have long since gone home or moved to other disasters. Typically LDR is in an area 3-4 years following a disaster. However, the organization estimates it will spend 6-8 years in the Gulf Coast region. At All Saints, we have funded six mission trips since the hurricanes hit the Gulf Coast. Our church not only sends volunteers, but we support this team in prayer and with donations. Al Kates, another member of our church, has organized all of the mission trips and had this to say in a recent letter to our members: “What force Katrina possesse
