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The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) had predicted an above-normal hurricane season earlier this year, a forecast that has materialized with several strong hurricanes impacting the United States. In response, the United Church of Christ Disaster Ministries is urging congregations to establish disaster preparedness policies.
Katie Howe, minister for disaster response and recovery, emphasized that these policies should not only address high-profile storms but also lesser-known weather events and other natural or human-caused incidents that can cause significant damage or loss of life. Howe and the Global H.O.P.E. team advocate for integrating disaster planning into a congregation's ministry.
“It is no longer a question of ‘if’ a disaster will strike a community, but rather ‘when,’” stated Andrew Long-Higgins, Global H.O.P.E. Team Leader. “This is the reality for all communities — even those who think they are in parts of the country that have historically been immune from such disasters.”
Recently, Katie Howe hosted a two-part Nurture the Soul webinar focused on building community connections before disasters occur. Alongside volunteers comprising clergy, response workers, and UCC Conference Disaster and Response Coordinators, Howe has developed a revised "Disaster Preparedness Guide for Local Churches: A Workbook."
Howe explained that the term "workbook" was chosen deliberately over "manual" because it offers guidance rather than mandates. “We recognize that each congregation is unique in its needs and ministry setting,” she said.
During the webinar, Howe introduced viewers to this new workbook aimed at shifting congregations from reactive to proactive approaches. The initial steps involve gathering contact information for vital resources within both the congregation and broader community.
“Make sure to include names, numbers and information of those in the congregation who might need special assistance during a disaster,” advised Howe.
Following this step is disseminating information throughout the congregation. Howe recommends forming a dedicated disaster preparedness team or incorporating these responsibilities into an existing committee like buildings and grounds while appointing someone to oversee the plan’s execution.
“This person is not responsible for doing everything but knows the plan and can delegate what needs to get done,” said Howe.
Beyond these foundational steps, churches may explore becoming Red Cross shelter areas or stocking food and supplies on-site. Regardless of complexity, Howe stressed regular updates to any disaster plan—suggesting annual reviews coinciding with key dates like June 1st or special Sundays such as One Great Hour of Sharing offering day.
The workbook itself remains adaptable; its latest version was released in October. “We recommend churches check the date to ensure they are working with up-to-date versions,” noted Howe.
