Sunday March 19, 2006 -- Map of Waveland

Waveland is at the middle of the gulf coast of Mississippi, Northeast of New Orleans and west of Gulfport. It is at the approximate epicenter of Hurricane Katrina's landfall.

Aerial photos are posted on the NOAA website. From these views, it is apparent that all structures within a short distance of the coast have vanished. Remaining roads and cement foundation slabs are all that remain. Further inland, there is extensive damage and destruction.

In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, the New England District of the Lutheran Church- Missouri Synod is taking responsibility for three congregations in the Southern District.

Lutheran Church of the PInes in Waveland was the most severely impacted. The church had over 5 feet of water and suffered some damage. At least 4 of the members lost everything. (The average Sunday attendance is 90).

St Paul Lutheran Church, Picayune, MS, received 6 to 8 inches of water, uprooted trees, and shingle damage.

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Laurel MS, suffered some tree damage and minor damage.

The community of Waveland has been a tourist destination. On the MSNBC web site, there is a photo of the cement slab, where the city hall used to stand. Next to it is a sign commemorating the outpouring of volunteer help after Hurricane Camille in 1969.