Message from the Rev. Gil Furst, former director, LDR

‘Our God is bigger and stronger than any evil that will ever come our way’

The Rev. Gil Furst and wife, Fern, view Ground Zero from the LDRNY Comfort &

Renew Center.

Dear Friends in Christ,

I was unprepared for the profound sadness I felt as I emerged from the subway and walked to the offices of Lutheran Disaster Response of New York (LDRNY) - across the street and 20 stories up from the pit of Ground Zero.  On this beautiful, clear September 11, 2004, I was unprepared to hear parents and grandparents read names of sons, daughters, or grandchildren killed during the terrorist attacks three years ago.  It was somber and heartbreaking.

My wife and I joined colleagues, family members, and friends in the LDRNY offices to watch the ceremony in the pit of Ground Zero, 20 floors below.  The Rev. David Benke (President, Atlantic District, LCMS) read Psalm 121.  For him the loss on 9/11/01 represented the loss of Psalm 121. But he reminded us, "Our God is bigger and stronger than any evil that will ever come our way."  He noted, "We've been learning what it means to be the Body of Christ. As the dust and ashes of mourning are remembered on this third commemoration, we pledge never to forget. But central to our remembrance is the Body and Blood of Christ, given and shed for us. Central to our remembrance is the strength of common action on behalf of hurting humanity granted to us as the Body called to action. Central to our remembrance is the connective tissue of our common Lutheran bond. Central to our remembrance is the frailty of the human condition and our desire to leave no one behind. And central to our remembrance is the undying commitment of LDRNY to bring comfort and renewal for years to come."

The Rev. Steve Bouman (Bishop, Metropolitan New York Synod, ELCA) stated, "It is still with us three years later. A changed world, scarred memories, physical and emotional loss, occasional spiritual entropy. But God is here. The church is strong. The Great Commission calls us toward this changed world. At the Eucharist we come together for comfort and renewal, and then the Eucharist leads us toward the real presence of Jesus in the world. The ultimate Ground Zero of human history, cross and resurrection, stands at the center of the continued witness of Lutheran Disaster Response New York."

I spoke with Pastor Ann Tiemeyer, director of Koinonia NYC, which provides "New Ground" Day Camps.  This summer day camps ran for 30 program weeks and provided tools for coping emotionally after a disaster to 794 kids at churches in all five boroughs of New York City.  A mental health counselor from Lutheran Counseling Center was present at each site, in case referrals or special care were needed.  "This year," Ann said, "we moved into more ethnic and economically-distressed neighborhoods around the city. We even went to a church that reaches out to African immigrants, some of which come from war-torn countries."

I write to say "Thank You!" on behalf of tens of thousands of people directly affected by the 9/11/01 terrorist attacks.  Your generosity enables LDR provide sustaining ministry, help and hope.  There are thousands of examples of how you continue making a significant witness to the love of God through Jesus Christ.  

John Scibilia (Executive Director, LDR-NY) reflects, "We are deeply grateful for the support so many have provided to Lutheran Disaster Response of New York through prayers, gifts, cards and so many other ways. LDRNY is one of the very last agencies responding directly and in collaboration with our partner agencies to the needs which continue to exist post 9/11. It is the traditional role of faith-based disaster agencies to lead efforts in long-term recovery. It is Lutheran Disaster Response which stays for many years in the wake of natural and human caused disasters. While unmet needs related to 9/11 have fallen below the view of many, through LDRNY you will continue to be a helping hand and peaceful voice to the hidden victims."

Even as we observed 9/11 remembrances, people asked what LDR is doing for those affected by this year's hurricanes.  "There is a strong emotional tie between the hearts of New Yorkers and the people of Florida," said Pastor Amandus Derr, St. Peter's Lutheran Church.  "Please let us know how we can help."

And so God's mercy continues, from one life to the next.  Once again I see those who have suffered so much are among the first of those to reach out to others.  

You provide ministry to those affected by 9/11/01.  And you provide for the needs of those affected by recent disasters.  Because of your generosity, the church can be present in the time of immediate need and for the long haul, providing compassion, help, and hope in the name of Jesus Christ.

Yours in Christ,

Gil Furst,

Retired Director for ELCA Domestic Disaster Response and   

Lutheran Disaster Response (a cooperative ministry of the ELCA and LCMS)

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