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2005 Witness Special Reports

Hurricane Wilma

South Florida relief efforts wane, but work continues in some areas Published November 10, 2005: JACKSONVILLE—(FBC) After preparing more than 1.4 million meals in 12 days of operation, 13 Florida and Southern Baptist mobile mass-feeding kitchens serving Florida communities hard hit by Hurricane Wilma wrapped up their work and returned home Nov. 5.
Southern Baptists say Anheuser-Busch water controversy misrepresented Published November 10, 2005: CLEWISTON (BP/FBW)–No thirsty person went without water, and no water went to waste, according to Tim Bridges, pastor of First Baptist Church in Clewiston.
72 Florida Baptist churches sustain damage after Wilma strikes west, east coasts Published November 10, 2005: JACKSONVILLE (FBC) – Ten days after Hurricane Wilma tore through Florida’s west and east coast communities, convention officials have surveyed 120 Florida Baptist churches either in person or by telephone to evaluate damage and determine needs of the congregations and pastors.
Keys flooding is God’s ‘fresh work’ in pastor’s life Published November 10, 2005: KEY WEST (FBW) – Suzanne Phillips is grateful to God even while attempting to salvage a few of her family’s water-logged belongings after Hurricane Wilma’s unexpected storm surge Oct. 24 flooded the parsonage, requiring an emergency evacuation by boat.
LifeWay offers support to churches affected by Wilma Published November 10, 2005: NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)–Throughout the last few months, LifeWay Christian Resources has remained deeply involved in providing financial assistance and resources to Southern Baptist churches affected by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The Nashville-based nonprofit organization is continuing its commitment to providing disaster relief by now aiding Florida Southern Baptist churches and pastors affected by Hurricane Wilma.
South Florida campus of Children’s Homes spared major damage Photo Published November 10, 2005
Baptists’ 10.5 mil meals shatters record Published November 10, 2005: ALPHARETTA, Ga. (BP)–Southern Baptist Disaster Relief announced Nov. 2 that volunteers have prepared a record 10.5 million meals since Hurricane Katrina made landfall in late August. The meal count shatters the previous record of 3.5 million meals set in 2004.

Hurricane Wilma roars through churches Published November 3, 2005: JACKSONVILLE (FBC)—The number of Florida Baptist churches severely or moderately damaged by Hurricane Wilma rose to 35 with another 13 churches reporting light to minimal damage by press time, Oct. 31.
Wilma destroys church sanctuary, not hope Published November 3, 2005: BOYNTON BEACH (FBW)-A bag of used clothes left by the church’s front door after Hurricane Wilma roared through the southeast coast of Florida reminded Pastor Dennis Demarois of the community’s love for the church.
Damaged churches Published November 3, 2005: JACKSONVILLE (FBC) — Preliminary reports from church officials and Florida Baptist Convention staff as of Oct. 27 are as follows:
Wilma’s storm surge floods lower Keys Virginia feeding unit assists in Key West Published November 3, 2005: FLORIDA KEYS (FBW) – After the worst of Hurricane Wilma’s winds passed through Key West in the early morning hours Oct. 24, fifth-generation “Conch” – a native of the Florida Keys – Christine Rodriguez ventured out of her home located on the highest part of the island only to find a “wall of water coming down the street” toward her.
Wilma surprises east coast corridor Published November 3, 2005: BELLE GLADE (FBC/FBW)–Catching residents from the Everglades to the east coast of Florida by surprise on its way out of Florida Oct. 24, Hurricane Wilma systematically twisted heavy utility poles, downed trees, savaged crops and flooded the inside of churches.
Wilma causes change in clean-up strategy on Florida’s west coast Disaster Relief ‘totally different’ for Naples command center Published November 3, 2005: NAPLES (FBW) – Leon Branch – a veteran of Florida Baptist Disaster Relief clean-up and recovery efforts – was surprised by what he found in southwest Florida when he arrived shortly after Hurricane Wilma came ashore Oct. 24 south of Naples, near Everglades City.
Food boxes needed for families Published November 3, 2005: JACKSONVILLE (FBC)-Food boxes to help migrant and agricultural families survive after Hurricane Wilma destroyed their livelihoods and homes are desperately needed in South Florida.
Toting meals, prayer & a little cash Published November 3, 2005: HALLANDALE (FBW)—Shaking her head in disbelief while tears ran down her wrinkled face, Dottie Trull, an 83-year-old resident of Hallandale, a working-class suburb north of Miami, hugged the man and woman who gave her and her daughter a small amount of cash.
Convention staff mobilized to aid in hurricane response Published November 3, 2005: JACKSONVILLE (FBC)–Thirty-six Florida Baptist Convention staff members have been dispatched to South Florida to assess damage and meet needs after Hurricane Wilma cut a diagonal swath across South Florida.

Food boxes needed for families Published November 2, 2005

JACKSONVILLE (FBC)-Food boxes to help migrant and agricultural families survive after Hurricane Wilma destroyed their livelihoods and homes are desperately needed in South Florida.

Forty Florida Baptist churches sustain severe or moderate damage at Wilma’s hands Published November 2, 2005

JACKSONVILLE (FBC) — The number of Florida Baptist churches severely or moderately damaged by Hurricane Wilma has risen to 40 with another 17 churches reporting light to minimal damage.

President Bush, Gov. Bush thank Southern Baptist Disaster Relief workers at Pompano Beach Published October 27, 2005

POMPANO BEACH (FBW)-The federal and state governments joined forces following Hurricane Wilma to encourage Southern Baptist Disaster Relief workers at First Baptist Church in Pompano Beach Oct. 27.

Wilma destroys church sanctuary, but not hope Published October 27, 2005

BOYNTON BEACH (FBW)-A bag of used clothes left by the church’s front door after Hurricane Wilma roared through the southeast coast of Florida reminded Pastor Dennis Demarois of the community’s love for the church.

Southern Baptist feeding units fan across South Florida meeting critical emergency hunger needs Published October 27, 2005

POSTED: October 27, 11:00 a.m.

JACKSONVILLE (FBC) — Eleven Southern Baptist feeding units are meeting critical emergency needs by providing hot food and cool drinks in areas where restaurants and grocery stores remain closed after Hurricane Wilma ripped across south Florida.

Twenty-five Florida Baptist churches sustain damage at Wilma’s hands Published October 26, 2005

POSTED: OCTOBER 26, 4:00 pm

JACKSONVILLE (FBC)–At least two Baptist churches reportedly were destroyed in Florida and 23 others damaged Oct. 24 as Hurricane Wilma cut a diagonal swath across the southern tip of the state, which has weathered eight hurricanes in 15 months.

Wilma stirs missionaries into action in Carribean Published October 27, 2005

MÉRIDA, Mexico (BP)–Four days after Hurricane Wilma crawled across Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Mexican nationals and tourists still wear wet clothes as they search for food and clean water. They are desperate for the necessities of life – such as one little girl’s need for asthma medicine.

Disaster relief teams mobilize after Wilma’s march through South Florida Florida’s 8th hurricane in 15 months hits hard Published October 27, 2005

UPDATED: October 25, 3:15 p.m.

JACKSONVILLE (FBC/FBW)—Even as Hurricane Wilma with sustained winds of 125 mph ripped northeast along the southern tip of the Florida Peninsula on Monday, Oct. 24, Florida Baptist disaster relief teams were being mobilized to the affected area. The storm was Florida’s eighth hurricane in 15 months.

Disaster relief teams mobilize after Wilma’s march through South Florida Published October 25, 2005

POSTED: October 25, 2005, 12:12 a.m.

Florida Baptist relief on standby for Wilma Published October 20, 2005

ALPHARETTA, Ga. (FBW/NAMB) – Even as Southern Baptist disaster relief efforts continue along the Gulf Coast, Florida Baptist feeding units are on standby to minister to those who may be affected by Tropical Storm Wilma as she heads into the central Gulf. Also, mud-out teams from New England Baptist Convention have been mobilized to respond to flooding in New Hampshire. Volunteers from South Carolina and West Virginia are assisting in the effort.

Hurricane Rita

Multi-week cleanup of flooded seminary continues Published November 17, 2005: NEW ORLEANS (BP)—The first wave of volunteers in a major cleanup initiative at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary arrived Oct. 31, aiming to boost the campus to an even greater place of prominence in the city.
Campus police chief leads worship for crews at NOBTS Published November 10, 2005: NEW ORLEANS (BP)—Decked out in his police uniform with a pistol at his hip, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary’s police chief, Barry Busby, does not look like a pastor. But he is.
Graham helps prof restore library Published November 10, 2005: ATLANTA (BP)–Preston Nix had been at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary only one month when Hurricane Katrina inundated the campus with water. A newly appointed evangelism and preaching professor, Nix lost everything – his home, his books and 30-plus years of sermon notes.

Florida workers interact with storm survivors Disaster Relief workers to begin difficult goodbyes Oct. 14 Published October 13, 2005: LAKE CHARLES, La. (FBW)–“And just why did ya’ll come all the way from Florida to do this?” asked Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Deputy Jackie Vitatoe as she arrived in the early morning Oct. 7 to begin a 12-hour shift providing security for the Florida Baptist/ Salvation Army feeding unit in Lake Charles, La.
Florida Baptist Disaster Relief ongoing in Gulf region Published October 6, 2005: LAKE CHARLES, La. (FBC)–Since Sept. 25, Florida Baptist disaster relief feeding volunteers have prepared and served 80,000 hot meals to victims in Hurricane Rita-battered Lake Charles, La.

Florida Baptist Disaster Relief teams deployed to Louisiana after Rita Published September 29, 2005: LAKE CHARLES, La. (FBC)-Two Florida Baptist Convention feeding units began feeding victims of Hurricane Rita on Sunday, Sept. 25 in Lake Charles, La., working alongside The Salvation Army.
Southern Baptist disaster relief expands to 2 fronts Baptists respond to Rita in Texas, La., continue to clean up Katrina in Gulf Coast Published September 29, 2005: ALPHARETTA, Ga. (BP)–Southern Baptists are assessing needs and assigning mobile disaster relief units to areas of Southeast Texas and Southwest Louisiana damaged during Hurricane Rita, while continuing to provide hot meals, clean-up and recovery services throughout the Gulf Coast.
Churches vow to adopt damaged churches Published October 6, 2005: ALPHARETTA, Ga. (BP)–More than 1,200 Southern Baptist churches have committed to help SBC churches in Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. The Adopt A Church partnership was initiated by the North American Mission Board the week after the hurricane destroyed thousands of homes and business along the Gulf Coast including hundreds of SBC churches.
Churches urged to show video on DR efforts Published September 29, 2005: NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)–Southern Baptist leaders are urging pastors to download a six-minute video highlighting Southern Baptist Disaster Relief efforts for viewing by their congregations this Sunday.
Projects allow children to minister in stressful time Published September 29, 2005: LAKELAND (FBW)–Items lovingly packed in shoeboxes, Ziploc bags and backpacks are being rushed from Florida churches and Christian schools to those most affected by Hurricane Katrina. Children are participating in hands-on projects that not only help others, but also help themselves deal with the stress of catastrophic storms.
Florida churches continue reaching out Published September 29, 2005: JACKSONVILLE (FBW)–For many Florida churches and pastors, giving time and resources to hurricane relief is not just a practical fulfillment of God’s command to help those in need, but a personal way to help one family, pastor or church. Hurricane relief has become a way to return the favor for aid given during the historic 2004 hurricane season.
Storm stress and kids Published September 29, 2005: JACKSONVILLE (FBW)–In Surviving Storm Stress, author and Christian counselor Dwight Bain shares valuable insights in helping children deal with stress.

Hurricane Katrina

First Person: School-teacher mom expresses thanks for help Insurance company denied claim to repair home built in 1939 after Hurricane Ivan brought 35 inches of water inside Published November 17, 2005: I am writing to express my thanks and appreciation for the disaster relief that was given to my son and I from the Florida Baptist Convention.
NOBTS students trudge on, pick up the pieces Floridians seek, find new avenues of ministry Published October 20, 2005: JACKSONVILLE (FBW)–“Daddy,” Daddy!” screamed two whirling balls of energy as Matthew Hughes walked into his home after a three-week trip to New Orleans.
Students salvage possessions at NOBTS Published October 20, 2005: NEW ORLEANS (BP)–The first week in October was a week of emotional highs and lows for the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary family. Joy mingled with pain and loss. Tears mixed with laughter and hope.
Yellow boots, sterile mask aid in NOBTS clean-up Published October 13, 2005: NEW ORLEANS (BP)–Instead of heading for the library to study for classes, Justin Langford and his wife, Melinda, spent the weekend sorting through the mud and mold in their New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary apartment, trying to salvage pieces of their lives.

Volunteers tackle damage in New Orleans community Published October 6, 2005: NEW ORLEANS (BP)–The lack of portable showers and cooking facilities could not deter the efforts of a chain saw crew from Florida’s Orange Blossom Baptist Association in late September.
Baptist relief declines government funds Published October 6, 2005: ALPHARETTA, Ga. (BP)–Southern Baptist disaster relief response is not contingent on government reimbursement, according Robert E. (Bob) Reccord, president of the entity that coordinates the SBC’s national disaster response.
New Orleans pastors continue to share burdens & challenges Published October 6, 2005: NEW ORLEANS (BP)–A call to faithfulness was sounded as 40 pastors and church staff members in the Baptist Association of Greater New Orleans Sept. 28. The group first met three weeks ago in Jackson, Miss., with about 20 pastors present. On Wednesday, Sept. 28, the group was again called together at First Baptist Church in LaPlace, just west of New Orleans.
NOBTS open to retrieve items Oct. 5-9 Published October 6, 2005: ATLANTA (BP)–The most difficult five days in New Orleans Baptist Seminary’s recovery from Hurricane Katrina are Oct. 5-9, NOBTS President Chuck Kelley said. Those are the days campus residents may return, on a staggered schedule, to collect what is left of their personal items.
Piano company offers grants Published October 6, 2005: NEW YORK CITY (FBW)–In an effort to help religious congregations devastated by Hurricane Katrina, the Boston Piano Religious Trust – established by the Boston Piano Co. – announced a special $50,000 relief fund to help begin the road to recovery for houses of worship, regardless of religion or sect.
Unanimous trustee vote keeps seminary in New Orleans Published October 6, 2005: ATLANTA (BP)–New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary trustees voted unanimously to keep the seminary in New Orleans during a Sept. 27 meeting at the seminary’s temporary administrative offices in the NOBTS North Georgia Campus.
Pastor sees God’s provision in Katrina’s aftermath Published October 6, 2005: MOBILE, Ala. (BP)–Up to his neck in water, trying to keep two elderly women afloat in the putrid waters flooding New Orleans, Michael Melon cried out to the Lord, “I’m tired! I’m exhausted! I can go no further.”
Ethicists respond to claims of euthanasia in New Orleans Published October 6, 2005: NEW ORLEANS (BP)–An ethicist with the Christian Medical and Dental Associations says claims that doctors expedited the death of some patients rather than evacuating them as the waters rose in New Orleans should raise important questions about what individuals should be expected to do in such dire situations.

Southern Baptists respond with optimism Lemonade stand, offering aid Katrina survivors Published September 22, 2005: JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—On a hot Sunday in Jacksonville, small children handed cups of lemonade to church-goers headed for lunch and afternoon naps. They didn’t ask for money from the members of Coastal Baptist Church, but people gave it anyway, sometimes not even taking their lemonade.
NOBTS’ Kelley: ‘God’s providence’ at work Published September 22, 2005: ATLANTA (FBW)–“Homeless” but not “helpless,” Chuck Kelley said he is certain God has been preparing him and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary for such a time as this. Nearly two weeks after Hurricane Katrina blew through New Orleans, causing its levees to break and flooding most of the historic city, Kelley, NOBTS president, remained upbeat about the seminary’s educational mission and its ability to reach out to a hurting community.
Florida Baptists continue concerted efforts in Gulf Published September 22, 2005: JACKSONVILLE (FBC)—Since the Aug. 29 landfall of Hurricane Katrina, Florida Baptists from across the state have joined the ranks of 5,000 plus Southern Baptist volunteers, hastening to help through churches, local associations and other ministries.
Fred Luter views Katrina toll, vows to rebuild church Published September 22, 2005: NEW ORLEANS (BP)–Tied to a safety harness, Fred Luter leans toward the rescue helicopter’s doorway and scans the water-soaked horizon for the New Orleans church he has led since 1986.
Florida Baptists make ‘big difference’ in Hattiesburg Published September 22, 2005: HATTIESBURG, MISS. (FBW) – Shuna Timmons moved into her new home in Hattiesburg, Miss., two days before Katrina struck the Gulf Coast Aug. 29. Even 70 miles from the coast, Timmons’ home – like many others in Hattiesburg – suffered severe damage from the Category 4 hurricane that many observers believe is the worst natural disaster in U.S. history.
BCF students, faculty collect 1,000 gallons of water for Katrina survivors Published September 22, 2005: GRACEVILLE (FBW)-The Baptist College of Florida family immersed itself recently in an effort to collect and distribute gifts of living water for Katrina-ravaged Mississippi.
CP overage to go to SBC pastors, seminary, others Published September 22, 2005: NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)–A potential boost of $7 million for hurricane relief efforts could come from the strength of Southern Baptists’ Cooperative Program.
LifeWay to tap $6 million in reserves for SBC disaster relief Published September 22, 2005: NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)–Trustees of LifeWay Christian Resources authorized the company’s executive leadership to utilize $6 million in reserve funds to assist Southern Baptist Disaster Relief efforts in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.
GuideStone assists Katrina-impacted participants Published September 22, 2005: DALLAS (BP)–Immediate assistance to GuideStone Financial Resources participants and eligible churches in areas destroyed or damaged by Hurricane Katrina has been put in place by the Southern Baptist Convention entity’s staff.
Operation ‘Little Bit’ in small-town Mississippi forges partnership Published September 22, 2005: SUNRISE (FBW)–A little bit can go a long way in a time of crisis according to Jan Deans, senior pastor at Sawgrass Fellowship in Sunrise.
Fall classes continue at New Orleans seminary Published September 22, 2005: ATLANTA (BP)–Despite the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina on New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary’s campus, the fall semester will continue, Provost Steve Lemke said.

Katrina destroys; Baptists respond: Florida Baptists providing aid in Miss. Published September 8, 2005: HATTIESBURG, MISS (FBC)—Florida Baptist relief volunteers have been on-site in Hattiesburg since Aug. 31, two days after Hurricane Katrina wreaked havoc on the Gulf coast.
New Orleans Seminary student rides out storm Published September 8, 2005: NEW ORLEANS (FBW)–It started as an almost normal Saturday at a somewhat crowded grocery store. Picking up snacks and water for his wife and two children, Walter Johnson, a student working towards a masters of Christian Education at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, felt small concern for the coming storm. Over the next three days, however, normality fled, leaving him scrambling to escape the chaos following Hurricane Katrina.
Katrina destroys; Baptists respond 1200-plus Southern Baptists offer relief Published September 8, 2005: ATLANTA (BP)–Logistical challenges continue to hamper efforts of more than 1,200 Southern Baptist Disaster Relief volunteers assisting people displaced by Hurricane Katrina.
Floridians assist Katrina victims in Sunshine State Published September 8, 2005: JACKSONVILLE (FBC/FBW)–Florida Baptist churches and Blue Springs Conference Center are welcoming residents from Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama with open arms after Hurricane Katrina drove them away, destroyed their homes and prevented them from returning.
FBC transfers $75K to aid conventions hurt by Katrina Published September 8, 2005: JACKSONVILLE (FBC)–Responding to deadly devastation in the Gulf Coast spurred by the Aug. 29 landfall of Hurricane Katrina, the Florida Baptist Convention authorized the immediate disbursement of $75,000 in relief assistance to aid Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama state conventions.
Miami churches count their blessings Published September 8, 2005: MIAMI (FBW)–Although most churches in the Miami Baptist Association have recovered from Hurricane Katrina’s Aug. 25 impact, congregations met Aug. 28 without electrical power in steamy conditions, with some choosing to meet on their lawns. The loss of electrical power proved to be the most problematic result of the storm, according to Jim Harrell, director of English ministries with the Miami Baptist Association.
NOBTS announces post-Katrina strategies Published September 8, 2005: ATLANTA (BP)–Despite the devastation on the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary campus, President Chuck Kelley said he plans for the main campus to be fully operational in August 2006 and is hopeful that some activities will be held on campus as early as January 2006.
Welch: Katrina calls for ‘spiritual S.O.S.’ Published September 8, 2005: GULFPORT, Miss. (BP)–While touring Mississippi’s storm-ravaged Gulf Coast, Southern Baptist Convention President Bobby Welch called the destruction and devastation left by Hurricane Katrina “the most grievous loss of humanity and the most horrific obliteration of property imaginable in recent history.”
SBC unveils nationwide initiatives to restore, assist Published September 8, 2005: ALPHARETTA Ga. (BP)–In response to the unprecedented destruction by Hurricane Katrina, the Southern Baptist Convention announced Sept. 5 the rollout of two programs to help damaged or destroyed churches recover and to offer assistance to families and individuals who have been displaced by the storm.
Relief for NOBTS families top priority, Kelley says Published September 8, 2005: ATLANTA (BP)–New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary officials met in Atlanta Sept. 1 to begin the long process of healing from Hurricane Katrina. Providing for the immediate needs of seminary families was their top priority.

SBC announces nationwide initiatives to restore churches, assist displaced families Published September 5, 2005: ALPHARETTA Ga. (BP)–In response to the unprecedented destruction by Hurricane Katrina, the Southern Baptist Convention announced Sept. 5 the rollout of two programs to help damaged or destroyed churches recover and to offer assistance to families and individuals who have been displaced by the storm.
FIRST PERSON: What to do when you don’t know what to do Published September 5, 2005: That question has resonated in the heart of every Southern Baptist in recent days. God’s people want to jump in to help alleviate the suffering of those who’ve been traumatized and devastated by the catastrophic Hurricane Katrina.
Was Hurricane Katrina by Intelligent Design? Point of View Published September 5, 2005: On his 89th birthday (Aug. 31) NPR Senior News Analyst, Daniel Schorr, observed that President Bush had “staked out a non-position” on the debate between evolution and intelligent design. Bush had said that “both sides ought to be properly taught in the schools of America.” Then, with manifest scorn, Schorr linked the devastation of Hurricane Katrina with the concept of intelligent design: “[Bush] might well have reflected that, if this was the result of intelligent design, then the designer has something to answer for.”

SBC president sees the tears, devastation on Gulf Coast Published September 5, 2005: JACKSON, Miss. (BP)–“What a devastating occurrence, but also a divine opportunity,” said Bobby Welch, president of the Southern Baptist Convention, after visiting hurricane-ravaged Mississippi Sept. 1-2.
SBC’s Welch issues spiritual S.O.S. in response to Hurricane Katrina’s aftermath Published September 5, 2005: GULFPORT, Miss. (BP)–While touring Mississippi’s storm-ravaged Gulf Coast, Southern Baptist Convention President Bobby Welch called the destruction and devastation left by Hurricane Katrina “the most grievous loss of humanity and the most horrific obliteration of property imaginable in recent history.”
More than 1,200 Southern Baptist volunteers now responding in wake of hurricane crisis Published September 3, 2005: ALPHARETTA, Ga. (BP)–Logistical challenges continue to hamper efforts of more than 1,200 Southern Baptist Disaster Relief volunteers assisting people displaced by Hurricane Katrina.
Relief for NOBTS families top priority, Kelley says Published September 3, 2005: ATLANTA (BP)–New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary officials met in Atlanta Sept. 1 to begin the long process of healing from Hurricane Katrina. Providing for the immediate needs of seminary families was their top priority.
NOBTS classes to continue; Aug. 2006 reopening envisioned Published September 3, 2005: ATLANTA (BP)–Despite the devastation on the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary campus, President Chuck Kelley said he plans for the main campus to be fully operational in August 2006 and is hopeful that some activities will be held on campus as early as January 2006.

Florida Baptist volunteers enter third day of Katrina feeding and clean up Published September 2, 2005: HATTIESBURG, MISS (FBC) — Julia and Herschel Jackson would have been spending Friday, Sept. 2 celebrating their 49th anniversary at home in Avon Park.
Florida Baptist Convention authorizes transfer of $75,000 to aid state conventions distressed by Katrina Published September 2, 2005: JACKSONVILLE (FBC) –Responding to deadly devastation in the Gulf Coast spurred by the Aug. 29 landfall of Hurricane Katrina, the Florida Baptist Convention authorized the immediate disbursement of $75,000 in relief assistance to aid Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama state conventions.
Blue Springs opens doors to Katrina victims Published September 2, 2005: MARIANNA (FBC) — Workers at Blue Springs Conference Center in Marianna are scrambling to provide shelter for 150 Hurricane Katrina victims expected to arrive on campus before the week’s end.
Seminary student rides out Katrina, finds New Orleans campus apartment flooded Walter Johnson returns to Ocala after witnessing ‘Beirut-meets-LA-riots’ atmosphere Published September 1, 2005: NEW ORLEANS, La. (FBW)–It started as an almost normal Saturday at a somewhat crowded grocery store. Picking up snacks and water for his wife and two children, Walter Johnson, a seminary student at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, felt small concern for the coming storm. Over the next three days, however, normality fled, leaving him scrambling to escape the chaos following Hurricane Katrina.
Jeb Bush applauds Florida Baptist disaster relief in Pensacola Florida governor sees off teams to Gulf Coast for Katrina relief Published September 1, 2005: PENSACOLA (FBC) – A convoy of Florida Baptist disaster relief teams arrived at Olive Baptist Church, Pensacola Aug. 30 welcomed by the applause of Governor Jeb Bush as volunteers readied to aid victims fighting to survive Hurricane Katrina’s wrath.
Relief workers face challenges assisting hurricane victims Fort Myers’ McGregor Baptist Church gives $160,000 to disaster relief Published September 1, 2005: ALPHARETTA, Ga. (BP)–As the situation in New Orleans and other areas affected by Hurricane Katrina worsens, Southern Baptist Disaster Relief workers face challenges as they seek to assist people without the most basic needs.
Chapman urges Southern Baptists to pray & ‘give generously’ Published September 1, 2005: NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)–Southern Baptists should “pray diligently” and “give generously” in the wake of a hurricane that has left much of the Gulf Coast in ruins and has displaced the faculty and students of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, Morris H. Chapman said Sept. 1.

Florida Baptist volunteers serve nearly 3,000 meals Wed. in Hattiesburg Numbers of meals expected increase daily Published September 1, 2005

HATTIESBURG, MS (FBC) – Florida Baptist Convention disaster relief volunteers fed plates of beef stew and peaches to nearly 3,000 residents and displaced persons in Hattiesburg, Miss., Wednesday, Aug. 31, the second day after Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast region.

With no water & ice yet, relief volunteers ask Hurricane Katrina’s victims for patience Published September 1, 2005

PASCAGOULA, Miss. (BP)–It’s been a rocky start for disaster relief volunteers setting up in Pascagoula, Miss. On Tuesday, four Georgia disaster relief teams heading for the hard-hit coastal town dealt with two flat tires, a breakdown of one of their trucks, hours of waiting at a rest stop with no working facilities, no dinner, no electricity and no water.

Response to Katrina largest ever for Southern Baptists Published September 1, 2005

ALPHARETTA, Ga. (BP)–Response to Hurricane Katrina will be the largest ever for Southern Baptists, with more than 1,000 volunteers and 100 mobile disaster relief units activated to hurricane- and tornado-ravaged regions of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia.

FIRST-PERSON: Christ, Katrina, and my hometown Published September 1, 2005

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (BP)–In a very real sense, my hometown no longer exists. And I watched it all on CNN.

Florida relief teams reach Mississippi to clean up in Katrina’s wake Published August 31, 2005

JACKSONVILLE, FL—(FBC) Hurricane Katrina’s furious march over the gulf region Aug. 29 left no running water or electricity and little more then a somber spirit in Hattiesburg, Miss. where Florida Baptist disaster relief personnel arrived Tuesday evening to help storm victims.

NOBTS president says ‘damage unknown’; moves offices to Ga. Published August 31, 2005

August 31, 2005, 2:00 p.m.

EDITORS’ NOTE: This story will be updated as new information is received.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)–Like many Southern Baptists, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary President Chuck Kelley wants to know the condition of his campus.

Florida Baptist Convention accepting Katrina donations Published August 31, 2005

JACKSONVILLE (FBW) – Persons who wish to contribute to disaster relief efforts in the wake of Hurricane Katrina may do so through the Florida Baptist Convention, officials announced Aug. 31.

Hurricane Katrina delivers ‘catastrophic’ damage to much of Gulf Coast region Published August 30, 2005

BILOXI, Miss. (BP)–New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, like all of urban New Orleans, was at the mercy of rising floodwater from levy failures Aug. 30, after Hurricane Katrina’s initial assault Aug. 29 did not appear to trigger widespread flooding.

Relief donations can be made via state conventions, NAMB Published August 30, 2005

ALPHARETTA, GA (BP)–Hurricane Katrina was one of the most powerful storms to ever hit the United States, and it could be the most expensive.

Hurricane Katrina strikes United States twice: Storm cuts across Everglades, churns through Gulf to crush inland Published September 1, 2005

BILOXI, Miss. (FBW)–Hurricane Katrina blew back into the United States early Aug. 29 making landfall as a Category 4 storm with 140 mph winds battering the Louisiana and Mississippi coasts and pushing a storm surge east into the gulf coast for more than a 100 miles away. At least half a million people were without power Monday from Louisiana to Florida’s Panhandle, including 370,000 in southeastern Louisiana and 116,400 in Alabama, mostly in the Mobile area. Katrina made landfall near Grand Isles, La.

Katrina batters New Orleans, Southern Baptist disaster relief units ready to deploy NOBTS evacuated, Gulf floods Panhandle shores Published August 29, 2005

August 29, 2005; 1:00 p.m.

BILOXI, Miss. (FBW)-Hurricane Katrina blew back into the United States early Monday morning making landfall as a Category 4 storm with 140 mph winds battering the Louisiana and Mississippi coasts and pushing a storm surge east into the gulf coast for more than a 100 miles away. At least half a million people were without power from Louisiana to Florida’s Panhandle, including 370,000 in southeastern Louisiana and 116,400 in Alabama, mostly in the Mobile area. Katrina made landfall near Grand Isles, La.

Hurricane Katrina slams Miami; Florida Baptist Disaster Relief on alert as Panhandle prepares for the worst Published August 26, 2005

August 26, 2005; 3:00 p.m.

MIAMI (FBW)— Six people were killed, over a million customers were without electricity and streets and homes were flooded after Hurricane Katrina struck south Florida as a Category 1 storm Aug. 25.

Hurricane Emily

Emily hopscotches through Mexico; misses Texas Published July 28, 2005: GRAPEVINE, Texas (BP) — With Texas spared from serious damage when Hurricane Emily struck the northeast Mexican coast July 20, Southern Baptists of Texas Convention disaster relief workers are preparing to deliver non-perishable food staples to storm-ravaged areas 70-80 miles south of the Rio Grande, said Bill Davenport, state director of SBTC disaster relief.

Hurricane Dennis

Hope replaces defeat after Dennis douses churches Ochlockonee Bay church receives help from Florida Baptist Association, Florida State BCM, State Convention Published August 11, 2005: The First Baptist Church of Ochlockonee Bay had been reinforced against the threatening weather with duct tape, plywood and sandbags. But that was not enough.
Disaster relief work in Milton leads to baptism in the Suwannee River Published August 11, 2005: SUWANNEE (FBW)–When Pastor Fred Edwards sent out a disaster relief team from his Layfayette Association church, he couldn’t have predicted the direct results.

Pensacola and surrounding areas struggle after Hurricane Dennis Photos by Joni B. Hannigan Published July 21, 2005
Florida Baptist state exec encourages relief efforts following Hurricane Dennis Photos by Joni B. Hannigan Published July 21, 2005

Panhandle clean-up, recovery decelerates Published July 21, 2005: MILTON (FBW)–Florida Baptist Disaster Relief director Fritz Wilson said July 18 most disaster relief services in the Florida Panhandle following Hurricane Dennis are nearing closure.
Sullivan visits pastors, relief workers Published July 21, 2005: MILTON (FBW)–Braving gray skies, thunderclouds and driving rain, Florida Baptist Convention executive director-treasurer John Sullivan visited churches in the Florida Panhandle July 14 assessing damage and thanking pastors and relief workers for their efforts since Hurricane Dennis hit the area July 10.
Welch tours storm-tossed Panhandle Published July 21, 2005: PENSACOLA (FBW) – Southern Baptist Convention president Bobby Welch ended July 14 a grueling two-day visit to the hurricane ravaged Florida Panhandle that focused on bringing greetings and prayers on behalf of more than 16 million Southern Baptists nationwide.
Cooperative Program makes relief possible Missions trip to assist tsunami victims with Pensacola church inspires Alabama mayor to get involved in CP giving Published July 21, 2005: FLOMATON, Ala. (BP)–For many Southern Baptists involved in disaster relief, the importance of supporting the Cooperative Program and associational missions comes to life in fresh new ways.

Southern Baptists band together to combat Dennis Point of View Published July 21, 2005: I have spent the past week traveling through the Panhandle area meeting with pastors, assessing damage, and trying to determine how Florida Baptists can help after Hurricane Dennis struck the Northwest Florida communities.
What the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration and hurricanes should teach us about the urgency of evangelism Point of View Published July 21, 2005: On the morning of Saturday, July 9, as my family and I were leaving St. George Island (part of Florida’s “forgotten coast”), the fire department was sounding the alarm for a mandatory evacuation in light of the fast-moving Category 3 Hurricane Dennis in the middle of the Gulf.

Oystermen, families struggle after Dennis Published July 21, 2005: EASTPOINT (FBW)–At St. George Sound where a bridge leads from Eastpoint to St. George Island there used to be a thriving oyster business.
Disaster relief chaplain assists widow Published July 21, 2005: NAVARRE (FBW)–They don’t move mountains of sand, but their job is to dab at the rivers of tears that sometimes flow when a person faces a loss in a time of disaster.

Sullivan greets pastors, rainfall fails to dampen spirits of Dennis relief workers Published July 15, 2005

Posted: July 15, 8:00 a.m.

MILTON (FBW)-Braving gray skies, thunderclouds and driving rain, Florida Baptist Convention executive-director/treasurer John Sullivan visited churches in the Florida Panhandle July 14 assessing damage and thanking pastors and relief workers for their efforts since Hurricane Dennis hit the area July 10.

Photo Gallery 3 of Hurricane Dennis Coverage Photos by Joni B. Hannigan Published July 15, 2005

SBC president Bobby Welch prays with hurricane-weary pastors, thanks relief workers Published July 14, 2005

Posted: July 14, 3:30 p.m.

PENSACOLA (FBW) – Southern Baptist Convention president Bobby Welch ended July 14 a grueling two-day visit to the hurricane ravaged Florida Panhandle that focused on bringing greetings and prayers on behalf of more than 16 million Southern Baptists nationwide.

Dennis volunteers’ work invigorated by news Hurricane Emily will miss Florida Published July 14, 2005

Posted: July 14, 10:30 a.m.

PENSACOLA (FBW) – Buoyed by the news that Hurricane Emily is not a threat to storm-weary Florida, disaster relief volunteers continue to minister to Panhandle residents affected by Hurricane Dennis, according to Fritz Wilson, coordinator for Florida Baptist Disaster Relief, who distributed an update early Thursday morning.

Photo Gallery 2 of Hurricane Dennis Coverage Photos by Joni B. Hannigan Published July 13, 2005

Photo Gallery from St. Marks and St. George Island Photos by Joni B. Hannigan Published July 13, 2005

Florida Baptist Convention staff disburse grants, spiritual care to Hurricane Dennis victims Published July 13, 2005

Posted: July 13, 2:00 p.m. EST

MILTON (FBW)-Dispensing emergency grants and “spiritual care” in Milton, Bagdad, St. Marks and Century, several Florida Baptist Convention staff members were able to make a difference July 12 to individuals suffering in the aftermath of Hurricane Dennis.

SOUTHERN BAPTISTS HEAD TO PENSACOLA TO HELP IN AFTERMATH OF HURRICANE DENNIS Published July 14, 2005

PENSACOLA (FBW)–Feeding and clean-up begins today in Florida, Alabama and Mississippi after Hurricane Dennis clamored for attention from relief workers still impacted by Florida’s historic 2004 hurricane season. Last year’s four storms in six weeks left an “X” across the state that had volunteers scrambling to minister to thousands.

Command Center asks for volunteers Published July 12, 2005

MILTON (FBW)-Florida Baptist Convention Disaster Relief officals are asking for volunteers who can work outside in clean-up and recovery in the Pensacola area.

Florida Disaster Relief command center at FBC Milton Published July 12, 2005

Posted: July 12, 8:30 a.m. EST

MILTON (FBW)-Florida Baptist Convention Disaster Relief established its command center at First Baptist Church in Milton July 11. Milton is in Santa Rosa County where Hurricane Dennis roared through July 10, leaving downed trees and a power outage impacting about half a million people in a three-state area.

Southern Baptist Disaster Relief crews head to the Gulf Coast after Dennis Pastors thankful storm less destructive than Hurricane Ivan Published July 11, 2005

Posted: July 11, 6:30 p.m. EST

PENSACOLA (FBW)-Feeding and clean-up begins today in Florida, Alabama and Mississippi after Hurricane Dennis clamored for attention from relief workers still impacted by Florida’s historic 2004 hurricane season. Last year’s four storms in six weeks left an “X” across the state that had volunteers scrambling to minister to thousands.

Florida Baptist Disaster Relief poised to assist after Hurricane Dennis Published July 10, 2005

Posted: July 10, 2:30 p.m. EST

JACKSONVILLE (FBW)-While Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana residents brace for the onslaught of Hurricane Dennis, a Category 4 storm heading straight towards the Gulf Coast July 10, Florida Baptist Disaster Relief leaders readied to meet the mountain of needs anticipated in what could be the most powerful storm ever to hit the Florida Panhandle or Alabama.

Florida Baptists prepare for Hurricane Dennis ‘X-Fuge’ evacuates Panama City Published July 8, 2005

Posted: July 8, 7:00 P.M.

PANAMA CITY (FBW)-With Hurricane Dennis hurling on a collision course towards the Gulf of Mexico July 8, over 1600 teens attending “X-Fuge” in Panama City were forced to cut short their trip by a day, while at the same time Florida Baptist Convention officials planned to meet Sunday morning to discuss disaster relief plans.

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Preparing for the Storm: Hurricane 2005

Hope, faith guide Hurricane Center director Published June 9, 2005: JACKSONVILLE (FBC)—As Floridians hunker down in front of television sets for news of the oncoming hurricane season, they are hoping reports will not bring word of storms bearing down on their homes and worldly possessions. Yet even in the midst of their turmoil, a single, calm voice will guide them through what may be the most cataclysmic event of their lifetime.
Treasure Coast Baptist Association organizes for Florida hurricane survival, proactively planning for storm season Published June 9, 2005: STUART (FBC)–September 2004 is a month that will live in infamy for the 66 congregations of the Treasure Coast Baptist Association.
Manual for developing strategies for crises Published June 9, 2005: Goal: To assist churches to prepare for disaster by developing a strategy to minister to their communities during crisis through preparing their facilities, training their members, securing supplies, and developing protocols that will activate their disaster response plans.
Baptists prepare for worst, pray for best Published June 9, 2005: JACKSONVILLE (FBC)—As the 2005 Hurricane Season approaches, Florida Baptists are filled with reminders of the past year’s devastating storms. They are preparing for the worst and praying for the best.

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