A series of tornadoes tore through parts of Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas late Sunday evening. At least 17 people were reported dead, with many more injured and entire neighborhoods destroyed.

The first twister created an 80-mile path of destruction, starting about 10 miles west of Little Rock, Arkansas. It passed through several towns, including Vilonia and Mayflower, which sustained significant damage. Wind gusts reached up to 160 miles per hour. The storm killed at least 16 people in Arkansas.

Another tornado hit Quapaw, Oklahoma, where one person was killed and many others injured. The twister then passed into southeastern Kansas, where it injured at least 25 people and shattered approximately 70 homes in Baxter Springs, Kansas.

According to local Nazarene churches, the storms left behind a trail of destruction, including damage to several church buildings. The Vilonia First Church of the Nazarene's new building was damaged. The church had just rebuilt after previous tornado destroyed its sanctuary and other buildings three years ago. The congregation worshipped in its new building only twice before Sunday's tornado hit. Dozens of homes were completely destroyed, including those of several Nazarene families. Kevin Rector, pastor of the nearby Liberty Church of the Nazarene, was among those who lost their homes.

Nazarene Disaster Response staff is currently working with local Nazarene leaders to assess damage and determine longterm response strategies. Immediate needs include shelter, food, water, and clothing for those who lost their homes.

"We encourage the church to be the hands and feet of Christ during these difficult times," said Jay Height, Nazarene Compassionate Ministries coordinator for the USA/Canada Region.

Prayer is also needed. 

"We're asking for prayer for those who are experiencing grief and trauma," said Larry Bollinger, director of Nazarene Compassionate Ministries. "We also ask for prayer and support for local churches as they begin the steps of walking alongside community members on a path toward longterm recovery."

James Smith, pastor of the Vilonia, Arkansas, First Church of the Nazarene, shared his story with CBS Evening News.

How to Help

Donate online now through Nazarene Compassionate Ministries by clicking here.

To send donations by mail, make checks payable to "General Treasurer" and send them to:

Global Treasury Services
Church of the Nazarene
P.O. Box 843116
Kansas City, MO 64184-3116

Be sure to put "Designation ID: 123201" in the Memo area.

In Canada, make checks payable to "Church of the Nazarene Canada" and send them to:

Church of the Nazarene Canada
20 Regan Road, Unit 9
Brampton, Ontario L7A 1C3

Be sure to put "Designation ID: 123201" in the Memo area.
--Nazarene Compassionate Ministries