Adjectives fail to give meaning to the tragedy of Haiti. Anything good I’ve experienced this week has left me feeling sad. I feel overwhelmed watching the news. I can’t even begin to get my mind around the loss of life that has taken place in a nation that was already suffering. I know we’re being inundated with sad news, but the good news in all this is about lives that are being saved, people who are trying to make a difference in the face of this intimidating darkness. While any help I give seems so small, I want to do my part. Here’s a few organizations (and individuals) I am choosing to help:

ADRA:
The Adventist Development and Relief Agency has been working in Haiti for more than 30 years providing relief and development. They are trying to raise $1,000,000 in the next seven days. As a Seventh-day Adventist, I am proud my church is making this level of commitment (and I encourage us to do more, risk more, and sacrifice more).

Scott Nelson
I just learned that Loma Linda University alumnist, Scott Nelson, has been working for CURE International as a surgeon for 5 years in the the Dominican Republic. This week he chartered a plane and was able to get into Haiti, where he is currently operating with a small team. He was interviewed this morning on ABC News. Cure International also has a blog about the work they are doing in Haiti. Loma Linda University has also setup a special fund specifically to support the hospital and Scott, the hyperlink will also give you an update on what’s going on with his work.

American Red Cross:
This is the easiest way to give. Subscribers of participating wireless carriers can donate $5 to American Red Cross disaster relief efforts simply by text messaging the keyword “GIVE” to “2HELP” (24357). Donations will appear on customers’ monthly bills or be debited from a prepaid account balance. Message and data rates may apply.

Some other things:

Tonight my church is hosting a candlelight prayer vigil for the people of Haiti. If you are in town, please come out and join us. The vigil will take place from 6:30 – 7:00 PM, in the BIG ROOM, located in our north building.