Several weeks ago, I had the privilege of representing the Diocese of Louisiana at the annual Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) Network Coordinators Conference in Minneapolis. Aside from the shock of experiencing high temperatures of 36 degrees Fahrenheit, the conference was great. I was once again impressed by the amazing work this organization does around the world. I had the opportunity to give a report on the ongoing Katrina recovery work going on in New Orleans, and many diocesan representatives expressed continued interest in ways that they could contribute to this work. Several new groups of volunteers will be coming in the next few months, a couple of parishes are interested in partnering with local parishes, and many more want to send donations of supplies and money. (The last evening of the conference, I asked participants for their unused hotel toiletries, and I flew back with 45 lbs. of soap, lotions, shampoo and other supplies, which have been distributed at the Dragon Café.)

The work in Louisiana raising money for ERD's international efforts through the Christmas tree projects, the Lenten Millennium Development Goals appeal, and for disasters was deeply appreciated, particularly since this Diocese is still impacted by the aftermath of Katrina. ERD has pledged to continue in its efforts to assist us here.

This next year we will have a number of ERD awareness and fund-raising opportunities. We hope that all our parishes and schools will get involved in several of these. At the moment, however, the recent cyclone disaster in Myanmar tears at my heart, and I hope at yours as well. We know what happened, here in the United States, in the aftermath of a hurricane. All reports indicate that the situation in Myanmar is far worse than anything we experienced here.

Despite the desperate poverty and brutal dictatorship which exist in Myanmar, ERD does have strong relationships with Anglican Christians in that country who are in a position to ensure that aid reaches those who need it most. I urge you to make a generous donation to ERD's Myanmar relief effort. Donations may be made online at www.er-d.org or may be mailed to ERD Myanmar & Cyclone Response at P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.