Churches, associations partner as state moves into recovery, rebuild stage

The more than 50 confirmed tornadoes that swept through Alabama on April 27 left behind an unprecedented path of destruction. Forty-two of the state’s 67 counties have been declared federal disaster areas.

Relief efforts are taking place in 29 Alabama Baptist associations. Ten Alabama Baptist churches were destroyed, and more than 40 were damaged in some way.

Since April 27, thousands of trained and credentialed disaster relief volunteers from 13 state conventions, including Alabama’s, have worked tirelessly. Nine mass feeding units were deployed, serving more than 250,000 meals. Chain saw teams have completed about 1,500 jobs, helping tornado survivors begin putting the pieces of their lives back together.

Shower and laundry, communications and child care units also were deployed across the region.

And, of course, chaplains — more than 150 of them — have been reaching out to the hurting, listening to their stories and praying with them. Chaplains have made nearly 6,000 contacts, and more than 50 professions of faith have been recorded.

In addition, churches and associations across Alabama and beyond have ministered in countless ways: collecting food, clothing and other items; becoming drop-off centers or distribution points; forming cleanup or feeding teams; serving as disaster relief staging areas; housing and feeding volunteers; and on and on.

Mel Johnson, Alabama Baptist state disaster relief strategist, said the relief effort is now moving into the rebuild stage as churches and associations outside the devastation zone partner with churches and associations affected by the tornadoes to provide assistance and encouragement.

Rick Lance, executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions, noted, “We have so much more to do in the coming weeks, months and, yes, even years ahead. The task seems to be overwhelming, but we do not have to be overwhelmed by it. I believe we can come through this a stronger people of faith.”

For those wishing to donate goods, specific needs include sports drinks; baby items including food, formula, diapers and wipes; canned food with easy open lids; large plastic containers with lids; and personal hygiene items.

To learn how you can participate in the relief effort or donate funds or goods, visit www.sbdr.org. To read more about relief efforts, see pages 5–9.  (SBOM)