In the Aftermath of Hurricane Florence

It’s hard to believe a scene so stunning can follow a storm so savage, but God gives us hope.  In the aftermath of Hurricane Florence, we are all trying to catch our collective breath and make sense of what has transpired.  We will be telling our stories, grieving our losses, and rebuilding our lives for many months.

We know this time has been very trying, and whether your family evacuated or stayed and weathered the storm, the effects have been difficult for everyone, and devastating for many.  We have not stopped thanking God for His mercy, nor have we stopped asking for His help in all of these circumstances.  Please know our thoughts and prayers are with each of you.

Many families are just now returning to their homes.  Many are still without power.  Many are knee-deep in massive clean-up.  Many have friends and neighbors still in desperate need.  Due to these factors, Gramercy will not reopen until Wednesday, September 26th at the earliest.

As a school and as a community, we are trying to find the beauty on the backside of this storm.  City officials, first responders, FEMA workers, linemen, and many other volunteers have helped alleviate much of the suffering in eastern North Carolina.  Watching my own neighborhood pull together has reminded me anew that what makes a community is not the buildings, it’s the human beings.  Perhaps we really are at our best when things are at their worst.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know the testing of your faith produces perseverance.  Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” James 1: 2-3

**Photo by Brad Styron, local Emerald Isle Photographer