On Aug. 29, 2005, great destruction came to many areas along the north and central Gulf Coast by way of Hurricane Katrina.
The area of Bayou La Batre was one of those hit hard by strong winds and devastating storm surge. The First Baptist Church of Bayou La Batre was among the casualties. This was the first time the church had ever been flooded in its 124-year history.
In the midst of devastation, it has been such a blessing to see and experience the love of Christ demonstrated through our brothers and sisters in Christ. Your quick and sacrificial response has literally touched the lives of thousands of people, especially in the Bayou area. It is with grateful hearts we offer our thanks to you all.
We, the members of First Baptist Church, have been humbled by the tremendous outpouring of love and concern for our recovery following this great and traumatic event. Words cannot begin to express our heartfelt gratitude to the many volunteers who have come from across the state of Alabama and from other states to assist us in our community.
We further want to acknowledge and thank our sister churches within the Mobile Baptist Association for their love, support and assistance in our recovery.
We would also like to offer our appreciation to Dr. Thomas Wright, director of missions for the Mobile Baptist Association, and his staff at the association office for all their support and assistance.
We also want to express our appreciation to Dr. Rick Lance, Bobby DuBois, Henry Cox, Tommy Puckett and the entire staff of the Alabama State Convention for their assistance.
Southern Baptists throughout this nation have responded in a compassionate Christ-like manner, and for this, we say thank you.
Although there is still a lot of work to do, we have come a long way [since Katrina], and Alabama Baptists have played a leading role.
We simply say to you, Alabama Baptists, “Thank You” for all you have done in being such a blessing to the First Baptist Church of Bayou La Batre and to our community.
May God bless you as you continue to serve Him.
Pastor J. Derrall Marshall and FBC Bayou La Batre
Bayou La Batre, Ala.
Share with others: