By Brian Blackwell, Baptist Message staff writer
ALEXANDRIA, La. (LBM) – Lillian Peterson recently got an inside look at Louisiana Baptist Disaster Relief field operations as an intern who responded to multiple hurricanes.
Through a partnership between churches and LBDR, Peterson was able to get a taste of relief activities while participating in responses to Hurricanes Beryl, Francine and Helene.
“I’ve taken the FEMA courses which have helped me a lot in learning about disaster responses, but this gave me the chance to see up close how a disaster relief organization works,” Peterson told the Baptist Message. “Also, I saw how communities come together in a disaster, and I was able to be the hands and feet of Jesus by serving them, which is what I’ve always said I wanted to do.”
Peterson, who is a member with Calvary Baptist Church, Alexandria, and a Louisiana State University of Alexandria general studies major with a concentration in disaster science and emergency management, worked with the incident command center and assisted deployed feeding units at multiple sites. She enjoyed learning how LBDR conducts day-to-day operations and experienced how those who experience a disaster enjoy having someone to listen to their stories.
“Everyone who experiences a disaster wants a listening ear when talking about their struggles,” she said. “So just having someone with an outlet to talk about their problems really helps them cope with the situation.”
LBDR Strategist Stan Statham said he is proud of Peterson’s passion for helping to serve others in their times of need.
“It is great to see such a committed Louisiana Baptist college student pursuing a degree in the area of disaster relief,” Statham said. “Lillian has had the opportunity to learn about disaster relief through hands on experience, and she has been a blessing to the teams she served with as well as the storm survivors she ministered to. I believe the Lord will use her in great ways for His glory.”
Peterson encouraged others who have not served to consider being a part of a DR team.
“This has been one of the best experiences I’ve ever had in my entire life,” Peterson said. “This is my calling, and I was so excited to serve the Lord in this way.”
