Oktoberfest Benefits Lutheran Disaster Response

More than 650 people and 100 volunteers supported Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR), Eastern Pa. by attending the fourth annual Oktoberfest at Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church in Glenside.

Attendees enjoyed German food and beer, homebrewed beer tasting, German dancing, and music from “Happy Henrick’s” Oktoberfest band. There were activities for children including a hay ride, and a silent auction also benefited LDR.

“LDR is a cause that is very close to our hearts,” said Pastor Henrick Sonntag, of St. Paul’s. “We had a nursery teacher whose home was destroyed by Irene, and LDR really helped her. LDR helps people who wouldn’t be able to get the help otherwise.”

LDR volunteers have assisted more than 85 families since Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee devastated Eastern Pa. over a year ago. They have assessed damage and created recovery plans, cleaned out mud, ran electrical wires and hung drywall. However, many families are still not back in their homes. Lutheran Congregational Services has set up and is supporting several long term recovery committees to help those who are still struggling to put their houses and lives back together.

“Oktoberfest is a fun way to bring together both our church and the community. The good spirit and people having fun together is key, and we couldn’t do it without the generous support of pastors and volunteers from other congregations,” Pastor Sonntag said. “LDR is about bringing people together to help others, and that’s really what we’re about as a congregation.”

Click here to view pictures from the event