We have all seen the reports of the train derailment and chemical explosion in East Palestine Ohio. The resulting chemical spill has left the water in the area unsafe to drink. Health experts are warning of “serious environmental damage” in the area surrounding the crash site. Bottled water is a great need. Several congregations of the North Central Conference led the effort in collecting bottled water to be used by the residents of East Palestine. Monetary gifts were received also and were used to purchase bottled water for the residents.

Pastor Bob Noble (Calvary, Northwood, Christ, Dowling) personally delivered the water that was collected and reported back that the situation is much worse than what is being reported. One glass of water may not have many ‘measurable contaminates’, but the people of that community have to deal with the effects of many glasses of water over the course of weeks, months, and years. Restaurants have been forced to close. Pets have been sent away because water is too precious to use for them and the ground water is not safe for them to drink in the long term.

First Church of Christ in East Palestine has been designated the lead church in the area to assist survivors and their families. First Christ is where residents come to get water and receive medical care and advice supplied by the Columbiana County Department of Health. Mallory Aponick is coordinating efforts on behalf of the churches in the area. Mallory hugged Pastor Bob in thanks telling him, “I don’t know what we would do if it was not for churches.”

The whole situation will undoubtedly have very long-term consequences for the environment and the people of the community. Pastor Bob shared that when he was unloading a woman came up and asked for one of the gallon jugs of water because that is how she has been able to bathe her 4-month-old baby.

To further help the people of East Palestine, we are asking the congregations of the North Central Conference (and anyone else who would like to join us) to consider taking a special offering. There are a number of ways to accomplish this. Designating Lenten/Holy Week offerings, encouraging members to give, or whatever method fits your setting, to raise funds for the purpose of buying water for the residents of that community. One hundred percent of the money offered will be used to purchase water for the residents of East Palestine.

A bottle of water may not seem like much when the problems are so big, but as Pastor Bob discovered, our collected acts of care and compassion can be a welcome gift for people who are hurting and fearful of what the future may hold. Donations may be sent to Calvary Lutheran Church (1930 Bradner Rd, Northwood, OH 43619) marked “WATER”. We will be collecting donations through Easter Sunday. Please remember the residents of East Palestine in your prayers and consider donating. Even the smallest act of kindness can be a huge blessing.

Thank you in advance for helping with this project.

God’s Peace,
Shawn O’Brien