The oil-soaked pelican may emerge as the symbol the massive oil spill has left in its wake since the April 20 explosion in the Gulf of Mexico. Eleven oil rig workers died and Gulf Coast communities are suffering an ongoing emotional, economic and environmental toll.
The pelican, along with numerous other wildlife species and their fragile ecosystems, continue to be effected by the gusher. The full impact of the disaster is far from known.
The Humane Society of the United States President and CEO Wayne Pacelle, with a team of experts, toured the Gulf in June to make an assessment of the impact on wildlife. The HSUS has also donated more than 12 tons of pet food to Gulf region animal shelters that are experiencing high intake levels of relinquished pets. Many people have had their lives disrupted and they say they can no longer care for their companion animals. The HSUS is providing the food to shelters who will distribute it to pet owners with the hope that it will help keep families intact with their pets during the crisis.
The religious community is also on the scene helping those in need. Faith leaders, organizations and press are speaking out about the tragedy. Here is some of what is being said and done:
Dr. Matthew Sleeth, of Blessed Earth, Sinking Stewardship in “On Faith,” The Washington Post
Katelyn Beaty, The Cry of the Oil-Soaked Pelican, Christianity Today
Ben DeVries of Not One Sparrow: a Christian Voice for Animals and Scott Williams of Creation Hope, on their Gulf Coast prayer journey
Ann Gerard-Flynn, ‘Oil in the Gulf: A Service for Healing Our Earth,’ Set for June 29 in Springfield, MassLive.com
Franciscan Action Network Response to the Gulf Oil Disaster
United Methodist General Board of Church and Society Gulf Coast Resources for Prayer and Action
If you live in one of the Gulf states and would like to help, contact the appointed volunteer organizations:
Volunteer Louisiana»
Volunteer Florida»
Volunteer Mississippi»
Volunteer Alabama»
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