On behalf of the United States Branch Committee it's my privilege to speak with you for a few minutes.
You dear friends have been close to our minds and hearts over the past days, and we have been earnestly supplicating Jehovah in your behalf. This is especially the case since many of you are now preparing for yet another storm, Maria.
As you know, over the past few weeks portions of our Branch territory have suffered greatly as a result of numerous storms. Because of this our Branch Committee has been working very closely with the Disaster Relief Desk here at the Branch to keep up-to-date on the difficult situation being faced by so many.
However today, we want to talk to you who have been directly affected by Hurricane Irma. We want you to know that already your Circuit Overseers and four Disaster Relief Committees are working tirelessly, responding to your immediate needs and organizing for a long-term relief effort.
It is evident that you have taken to heart Proverbs 22:3 where it states “the shrewd one sees the danger and conceals himself.”
We want to some sincerely commend you dear ones for working in harmony with the organizational arrangements put in place for situations like these. Due to your excellent cooperation with the local elders and your congregation, information about your condition has been made available quickly, which greatly assist us in caring for your immediate and long-term needs. We also wish to thank those of you who, out of brotherly love, immediately made homes available to receive brothers and sisters who have been displaced, as well as those who have assisted in other practical ways.
You will be pleased to know that representatives from the branch will be visiting your area this weekend and will assist your local brothers to begin laying the foundation for a successful relief effort. In addition, we have asked that they visit many of you personally, and view the extent of damage this hurricane has caused.
The relief effort is sure to extend into the coming weeks and months. Therefore continue to work along with your local elders and the circuit overseer as they provide direction. As soon as possible please try to resume your theocratic routine and be alert to opportunities to provide spiritual and emotional support to others including your neighbors.
In addition be assured that we are making every effort to help you.
In the meantime remember that Jehovah is aware of your situation and is your fortress in times of distress as stated at Psalm 37:39. In addition please continue to take to heart these words at Psalm 62:8 “Trust in him at all times, O people. Pour out your hearts before him. God is a refuge for us.”
It is with deep heartfelt love that our Committee sends this message to you.
You friends are dear to our hearts and it is our sincere prayer that
Jehovah will care for you and watch over you in the days to come.