Pilgrim, Minneapolis, Minn., is a community church and school. Located in an urban center, Pilgrim serves a diverse population that includes Native Americans, Hispanics, Hmong, Northern Europeans, and many other ethnic groups. The school is predominantly an outreach tool, with more than 30 people baptized over the past two years, most of whom came to Pilgrim because of its school.

On Aug. 19, a tornado struck the neighborhood surrounding Pilgrim. The tornado, which touched down only six blocks from the church, did not harm Pilgrim's property. However, many homes and cars in the area did suffer severe damage. No serious injuries or deaths were reported.

After the storm passed, Pilgrim's neighbors grew concerned over how they were going to pay the insurance deductibles associated with their policies so that their property could be repaired. Through a $10,000 grant from the Committee on Relief, Pilgrim is now providing relief and support to its neighbors.

"This is a tremendous chance for outreach," says Scott Gostchock, director of Christian development at Pilgrim's church and school. "We are building relationships with these families, sharing God's Word with them, and inviting them to church. We can say, 'Pilgrim is here to help.' "

Members of Pilgrim are now canvassing the neighborhood on weeknights and weekends to find those who need help. Gostchock says that as of Sept. 17, Pilgrim identified 11 families who will receive financial help. Pilgrim is also helping neighbors by clearing trees that have fallen and providing general cleanup services.

"Our neighbors are joining us in praising God for his greatness as we share our resources with them," says Gostchock. "It is very overwhelming to be able to help, and God is getting the glory for that. This is how God works through what we might perceive to be terrible things."