Hello All:
Thought I’d briefly check-in and fill you in on what’s going on here in Brooklyn in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. First of all, a gazillion thanks, from the bottom of my heart, to all who called, sent text messages, or emailed to express concern and let us know they were praying. We’re still trying to get a gage on the damage but we know that many on the east coast are without power and can expect to be for some time. Here in NYC, the subways are flooded and many tunnels remain closed. Lower Manhattan, where our offices are located, remains inaccessible as the mandatory evacuation has yet to be lifted.
Currently several telecom networks are experiencing outages and we have not been able to communicate by phone with anyone since last night. We live in a neighborhood called Bay Ridge, an area that is very close to the water but above sea level. Thankfully, we did not have to evacuate. We hunkered down and rode it out. By God’s grace, we had electricity and power throughout. Flooding or leaking was minimal. When we emerged from our apartment this morning we learned that most of the damage that occurred in our neighborhood was related to downed trees and branches toppled by strong winds. This is certainly nothing to scoff at – as some of these trees fell onto homes and cars but, to the best of my knowledge, damage is limited and no loss of life has been reported in my neighborhood. Unfortunately, this is not the case for all of NYC, or on the east coast. Many are still feeling the effects of Hurricane Sandy and will be for some time. Earlier we ran into one of our elders, who is also a Captain with the New York City Fire Department. First Responders, as you can imagine, have been on overdrive the last few days. He confirmed that there are many individuals and families who have suffered horrible devastation and loss. Would you please remember to pray for all those affected by Hurricane Sandy? Pray for those involved in all the logistics and planning. Pray for those in leadership to make right decisions. As this recovery begins, we will need one thing above all: the grace of God.
Thanks for the update Christina – I posted it on FB as everyone’s been asking. Glad you and Steve were safe but so sorry for your community. Praying for God’s grace for all.
Thank you Diane! XO
Thanks so much Christina. Thanking the Lord you are o.k. Praying for everyone devastated by this hurricane. (haven’t heard from Heidi.. praying she is ok. too)
Thank you Denise! I did hear from Heidi — she left a message on my voice mail but due to signal problems I haven’t been able to call her back. Maybe you have heard from her already but if I see her or talk to her I will let you know or have her call you!
Dear Christina, I and my family have been praying for your family and for all in the path of the storm. I deeply appreciate knowing you rode it out and are safe. Now to hear from my other NY friends…. Truly God is a good and gracious God Who has heard our prayers concerning you. In His grace and love~ Anna
Thank you Anna! It means a lot to know that you and your family were praying. I know that you are no strangers to this kind of disaster. God bless you!
Thank you for posting, Christina! So good to hear God kept you safe through the storm. Praise His Name! I completely agree, grace is the only thing that will sustain His people through events such as this. Praying for grace, grace and more grace for the humble. Much love to you ♥
Thank you Diana! XO
Thanks for letting us know, Christina! So grateful to God for His hand over you and Steve, my friend!
XOXO
Thank you Becky! XO
Thank you for the update – it is good to hear from you. I will be continuing to pray.
Thank you Jessica!
So glad to know that you and Steve are safe, Christina. Praying for the suffering and the responders.
Thank you Persis!
Thank you for sharing this Christina! A storm like that is very frightening….we know since we live in Florida and have witnessed the devastation of a vast weather event like that. I am so grateful you are okay. We will definitely be praying for those who have lost so much in the wake of this storm. May God bless you and all those who are affected by this hurricane.
Thanks so much Barbara. As a resident of Florida, I’m sure you are all to familiar with much of what is going on. God bless you and thank you for your prayers.
I’m thankful that you’ve been safe, Christina. We’ve been praying for all who are suffering and for those who are helping.
Thank you Rosemary!
More than glad and thankful that you and Steve are okay. Will continue to pray for much of God’s grace, mercies, strength, hope and wisdom; and that He will be glorified even through this and draw many to Himself! Love and hugs! ♥
Thank you so much Petra!
Christina,it was good to hear that you have weathered the storm. Mike and I have been praying for you and your family and all of God’s people in the path of the storm. I remember in 2004 here in florida when we got hit by 4 back to back hurricanes and we lost power for 4days everytime.
God Bless,
Elba
Hi Elba! I know that Floridians are no stranger to natural disasters! God bless you and thank you so much for your prayers! It’s also so great to hear from you!
Thank you for the update, sister. We’ve been praying for you. The Cardwell’s love the Langella’s and send Alabama love and prayers your way.
Thank you so much for your prayers Jon!
So glad to hear you guys are doing well, you have been in my thoughts and prayers. Continuing to pray for you all as you try to navigate around and try to return to normal daily life and for all of those who have lost so much.
Thank you so much Dana!