Communities along the Red River in eastern North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota are bracing for potentially record-breaking flooding.  The National Weather Service predicts that flooding could surpass those of the 1997 disaster.  In many communities intensive sandbagging efforts are underway, and officials in Fargo, N.D., are working to raise the city's system of dikes. Fargo's mayor said the swollen river is moving into "uncharted territory," according to a CNN report.

Here is a prayer petition that can be used in your congregation:

O God, you created the waters to give and sustain life; yet when those waters rise they pose danger to lives, property and farmland.  Be present with our sisters and brothers along the Red River as they face potentially record flooding.  Protect those who are in harm's way and strengthen all those who labor to protect cities, rescue those in danger, and care for people who are displaced.

Download

• Download this article now as PDF (for your bulletin)

You can give now to assist ELCA Disaster Response:

* Check or money orders sent to:
      ELCA Disaster Response
      Attn: US Flooding
      PO Box 71764
      Chicago, IL 60694-1764
      write "US Flooding/Red River" on your check's memo line.

* credit card by phone: 800.638.3522
      or online
      Credit card contributions may also be made via mail.

Read more:

• ELCA News Service: Lutherans in North Dakota Brace for Record Floods
• ELCA Disaster Response alert