On March 30, 2025 much of our synod experienced severe thunderstorms, which led to tornados and loss of power. Bishop Satterlee, the Synod Staff, and Pastor David Sprang have been in conversation with six of our congregations Up North to support as needed.
Thanks our synod’s Disaster Relief Fund, we are able to quickly support recovery efforts. If your congregation has been affected and needs support, please reach out to Pastor Sprang.
The State of Michigan also shares a website for those affected by the storms. View Resources.
Pastor Sprang has been working with Lutheran Disaster Response and volunteer agencies across the state on behalf of our synod. Our synod’s Executive Committee designated $5,000 from our Synod Disaster Relief Fund to be used to support those affected by the storms. These funds are being used for food pantries, generator fuel, and other needs.
St. Paul in Alpena is hosting volunteer groups. Grace in Alpena, Cross of Christ in Petoskey, St. James in Rogers City, St. Matthew in Herron, and Peace in Gaylord are all assisting those who need food and generator gas. Pastor Sprang has been providing pastoral care at the Emergency Shelter in Gaylord. The National Guard has arrived in the area and is providing extra help.
Additional updates from Pastor Sprang are available on Facebook. If you would like to donate to Synod’s Disaster Relief Fund, you can do so online. From the link, click “Give” and then choose “NWLMS Disaster Relief” from the dropdown menu.