September is National Preparedness Month and a good opportunity for congregations to consider ways to build or strengthen their capacity to better serve their communities during and after an emergency. In the work of disaster response, Week of Compassion sees firsthand what a difference it makes to a church – and to the whole community – when individuals, families, and communities of faith start the conversation, and take steps to be prepared. ​

As a Washington Post headline today reads "Earth broke all-time heat record two days in a row", we see that reality impact communities and peoples worldwide, with more frequent and severe weather events, increased displacement due to drought, flood, and famine, and the spikes in our own household needs and utility bills. Climate change continues to impact everyone.

Earlier this year, our colleagues at Global Ministries prepared a list of Creation Care resources and recommendations for education and action. Individuals from the GM staff team suggest everything from children's books and family-friendly films, to websites, books, and webinars, plus social media challenges and 'sustainable swap' ideas to make an impact right in your own home.

Climate change is a significant factor in the work of Week of Compassion, as we respond to natural disasters, refugee concerns and the needs of persons displaced from their homes, and engage global partners to address sustainable development and offer transformative hope.

Earlier this month, Rev. Caroline Hamilton-Arnold, Week of Compassion’s Associate Director for Domestic Disaster Response, spent a week in Arizona, visiting congregations and partners, and participating and leading at the annual meeting of National VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Assisting in Disaster). A significant focus during her visit was connecting with Rev. Katie Sexton, Disciples pastor and Executive Director of the Arizona Faith Network, “an interfaith organization building bridges across diverse Arizona communities to work for the common good.” ​