Over 200 church buildings damaged in hurricanes

JACKSONVILLE (FBC) — A total 202 Florida Baptist church buildings sustained varying degrees of damage – from minimal to completely destroyed – as a result of the four hurricanes that passed across Florida between August 13 and September 26. In addition, two Baptist affiliated properties sustained damage. These were Lake Yale Baptist Conference Center and the Florida Baptist Retirement Center, Vero Beach. The updated reported was compiled by Florida Baptist Convention staff based upon on-site assessments and reports from directors of missions and pastors.

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Four churches, including three in the rural area of Arcadia, had their buildings completely destroyed by Hurricane Charley. Some churches experienced initial damage from either Hurricane Charley or Frances, then had damages made worst by Hurricane Jeanne. The damaged church facilities occurred in 22 out of the State Convention’s 49 cooperating associations. Five associations had over 20 church facilities damaged, including Orange Blossom, 20, Palm-Lake, 26, Peace River, 21, Pensacola Bay, 22, and Ridge, 20. No dollar figure has been assigned to the loss and damages experienced by the churches.

During the recent meeting of the State Board of Missions authorization was given to establish a $500,000 fund to provide interest free loans valued up to $25,000 to help churches offset the cost of insurance deductibles. Further information on financial assistance can be secured by calling 1-800-226-8584, ext. 3130.

A list of damaged church buildings, grouped by association, can be found online at www.FloridaBaptistWitness.com.