Various Utah faiths rally to aid victims

"When it comes right down to it, we are not Republicans or Democrats, Presbyterians or Mormons, Christians or non-Christians, Left or Right, but citizens in the kingdom of God. And praise God, many are rising to the occasion of being their brother and their sister's keeper!" — Rev. Catherine Putnam, Wasatch Presbyterian Church, Sept. 4 worship service.

Offering up everything from Bibles to barbecues, groceries to gumbo, and prayers to personal hygiene kits, Utah's faith community has rallied this week, putting aside any hint of division with a show of force for the victims of Hurricane Katrina.

The efforts range from small gestures of personal hospitality to major community rallying events, and many seem energized by the chance to do more than write a check.

John Schaeffer is an example, offering to be an "out front face" of "Home Away from Home." The community event combines fund raising, entertainment, Southern gumbo and family fun is scheduled today from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Skaggs Catholic Center, 300 E. 11800 South, in Draper. Suggested donation is $10 per person or $30 per family. Food donations will also be accepted.

Evacuees from Camp Williams have been invited as special guests, with proceeds from the fund-raiser directed toward relief efforts and the homeless here in Utah. Organizers include the Ken Garff Automotive Group and Juan Diego Catholic High School, in conjunction of the Skaggs Catholic Center, Draper City, local LDS stakes and Gov. Jon Huntsman.

As one of those used to dealing closely with children, Schaeffer's white hair and white beard serve him well as Santa Claus during the Christmas season. But he's not waiting for the snow to fly, instead jumping at the chance to help entertain children and adults alike as a show of support for those in need.

"I've done work with homeless children before at St. Vincent de Paul and other places, so I was just asked to be involved in that regard." If some of the evacuees are able to attend, Schaeffer looks forward to talking with them more as a listening ear than anything else.

"I'll probably be listening to lots of stories about lost pets and lost friends . . . . As Santa, it's always a tough issue if they ask for a wish that can't be granted. I try to explain on a reasonable basis what can and can't be done. Santa has limited capabilities and mostly deals with Christmas. The big thing is just letting them know they are not forgotten."