Rockhampton Flood Recovery Outreach Update

It’s been 16 days since our city experienced the worst flood for the last 60 years and thankfully the waters have receded and the recovery phase has begun. Our main highway has been re-opened this week allowing food and resources to be transported into the city. Hopefully the airport will re- open next week bringing some normality back to the region, even though it will be restricted to day- time flights due to the electrical damage to the runway.

As a church we have been extremely active in the community offering practical and spiritual help to those affected by the disaster. We have had up to 130 of our church members in the mud with the locals shoulder-to-shoulder helping them clean up and rebuild their homes and lives. So far we have been ministering to over 1000 residents in around 360 homes.

Our State Premier, Anna Bligh, said the towns affected by the flooding look like “war zones” and she is right. It is hard to imagine how much damage can be done. We would appreciate your prayers as we continue to help out in the clean up as some of our team have gotten sick from contamination with the flood waters and mud.

Our church set up a refreshment stall in one of the main flood affected areas and offered a free sausage sizzle and cold water to all the emergency workers, volunteers and residents. This has been well patronised and many gospel tracts have been distributed at this venue with recipients taking them willingly.

We have witnessed first hand the truth of the anecdote “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care” The efforts of the Lighthouse team has been well received with commendations coming from the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, SES workers and most importantly the local Rockhampton residents themselves.

We have letter boxed every affected home in the Rockhampton area with an offer for practical aid, counselling assistance and pastoral care and are now following up on calls for help.

This coming Saturday we will again take a recovery team from the Lighthouse into the areas still needing clean up work and let our light shine “before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

A couple of days ago we again received heavy rain causing flash flooding in the middle of the city. What a great opportunity to minister to people in trials and afflictions.

Prayer Points: Results of Flash Flooding this week!

 For open doors to minister to people in their need  For safety in this Saturday’s recovery outreach  For wisdom as we prepare and plan for phase 2 of the Recovery Outreach going house to house with Care Packages. We are aiming for this to happen on 19th February.  For opportunity to host a city wide Appreciation Church Service.

Thank you again for all your prayers, support, love and concern for not only our city but many other towns and cities around our great nation.

Sincerely in Christ,

Pastor Robert Bakss (07) 4928 6633