National media outlets are reporting that as many as 14 people may be dead after a Category 1 hurricane hit the Caribbean island of St. Lucia, Castries, Oct. 31. WELS has one church in St. Lucia—Trinity, a congregation of about 160 people. No members were injured, but many families' homes sustained considerable damage.

Rev. Tom Spiegelberg, pastor at Trinity, reports that heavy rainfall lead to widespread flooding and landslides. Many bridges and roads were washed away or are impassable, including the road to one of the island's main water reservoirs. Many people on the island are without power, and schools have been closed for the week.

WELS Christian Aid and Relief has authorized an initial grant of $5,000 to help with immediate needs, including distribution of food and clean water. Mr. Mark Vance, director of operations for Christian Aid and Relief, will be traveling to St. Lucia to further assess the needs of those impacted by the storm.

Spiegelberg offers his thanks for the assistance they've received and says he hopes this disaster will provide opportunities for him and his congregation members to reach out to their community. "We know that our all-powerful and loving God allows disasters to exist so that the love of Christ may be seen through the lives of those affected and the lives of those who are eager to help," he says. "We thank and praise God for his goodness in our lives and we look forward to letting his light shine in us through our words, thoughts, and offerings."

To support these relief efforts, submit a donation online or send a check to Christian Aid and Relief, 2929 N Mayfair Rd, Milwaukee WI, 53222. Read Spiegelberg's full report on the impact of Hurricane Tomas in the relief blog.