The Katrina Emergency Relief Impact Team, or KERMIT, is a joint ministry of St. Christopher's, Linthicum and Church of the Holy Apostles in Arbutus. Immediately following Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the rectors of the two parishes, the Revs. Lura Kaval and Katrina Grusell, looked for ways to assist the people of Mississippi. KERMIT's first ministry was to St. Patrick's, Long Beach. St. Patrick's buildings were completely destroyed in the hurricane, along with thirty-five per cent of parishioners' homes. In the first weeks, the two Maryland parishes sent more than $32,000, hundreds of dollars in gift cards for parishioners, and liturgical supplies.
It quickly became clear that the rebuilding of the Gulf Coast would be a long, difficult process, one that desperately needed the presence of hands-on relief workers. The parishes deepened their connection to the relief effort, joining in ministry with Camp Coast Care. This Long Beach facility, supported by the Diocese of Mississippi, houses and feeds volunteers from all over the country who come to rebuild homes and lives. For six months Camp Coast Care also provided a free medical clinic and served as a site for food and clothing distribution.
The Revs. Lura and Katrina created KERMIT in November 2005 to encourage their parishioners to travel to Mississippi and directly serve the people affected by the hurricane. Soon, KERMIT was opened to all parishes in the diocese and beyond. For many months, KERMIT teams regularly travelled to Long Beach and assisted with the relief effort. To date, KERMIT has sent more than 100 people to Mississippi. Many of these individuals have participated multiple times. This is a life-changing effort.
Two and a half years later, Camp Coast Care continues to house volunteers and facilitate rebuilding projects for relief workers. They now have a more permanent facility in Long Beach and a staff that includes case managers. The process of healing in the Gulf Coast is long and difficult. Every person who joins in the effort makes a difference; there is still so much work to be done. The Church is rebuilding the Gulf Coast. KERMIT, a joint ministry of Church of the Holy Apostles and St. Christopher's has led the way with their Mississippi partnerships. We invite you to join us in this grace-filled ministry.