The Rocky Mountain Synod Disaster Response Team
The Disaster Response Team works to support those who are most impacted by major disasters in our synod. In concert with Lutheran Disaster Response, local, state, and federal agencies, and other partners in ministry and mission, we lift up the needs of those whose lives are turned upside down in a disaster and accompany the long-term response.
Our team:
Rev. Jill Cline (St. Paul Peace, Las Vegas, N.M.)
Rev. Katie Chullino (Bethlehem, Longmont, Colo.)
Sue Harkreader (Christ the Servant, Louisville, Colo.)
Melanie Nehls Burow (Trinity, Boulder, Colo.)
Rev. Pam Challis (Trinity, Boulder, Colo.)
Ken Maldonado (RMS Synod Council)
Peter Severson (RMS Office of the Bishop)
Make A Gift
When disaster strikes, we invite generous gifts from all corners of our Synod (and beyond!) to provide immediate support, assistance, and long-term accompaniment in the wake of a disaster. You may give to the Rocky Mountain Synod's own disaster response fund, or directly to Lutheran Disaster Response.
Make a gift to the Rocky Mountain Synod Disaster Response Fund.
Resources
The Rocky Mountain Synod Disaster Support Resource - Fires (updated 03-2024)
Learn from the wisdom and experience of RMS congregations that have walked through fire disasters before. Features stories from the Marshall Fire (Boulder County, CO, 2022) and the Hermit's Peak-Calf Canyon Fires (Mora County, NM, 2022).
Disaster Preparation Packet for Congregations
Use this fillable PDF form to gather all the information your congregation or ministry might need to have *before* a disaster strikes. This easy-to-follow resource guides you through emergency information, building tenants, emergency pastoral care contacts and more!
RMS DISASTER PREP FOR CONGREGATIONS - FILLABLE PDF FORM
Litany in Time of Wildfires
Holy God, in the wake of fires that devour and consume,
Refresh us with the water of life.
In the barren places of ash and dust,
Restore us with the water of life.
When all we can see is devastation and despair,
Renew us with the water of life.
In Christ, we are washed clean.
We are refreshed.
In Christ, we drink from the wellspring of hope.
We are restored.
In Christ, we dance in the fountain of life.
We are renewed.
Thanks be to God. Amen.
Prayers
We pray to you almighty God, as we have witnessed the power and destruction of the Boulder County wildfires. You are our refuge and our strength, a very present help in time of trouble. In the face of this tragic loss, uphold us with your love, and give us the strength we need. Help us in our confusion, and guide our actions. Heal the broken, console those faciing devestating loss, and give hope to those who are overwhelmed; for the sake of your great mercy in Jesus Christ our Lord.
God our comforter, you are a refuge and a strength for us, a helper close at hand in times of distress. Enable us so to hear the words of faith that our fear is dispelled, our loneliness eased, our anxiety calmed, and our hope reawakened. May your Holy Spirit lift us above our sorrow to the peace and light of your constant love; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.