Tornado can't shake small church members' faith as they rebuild with hope

AID — A small church is turning the page on disaster with optimism after a devastating system of tornadoes ripped through Southeast Missouri on Friday, March 14.

One twister struck under the cover of early morning darkness. It left sections of Liberty Hill Church in ruins, with its recreation/gymnasium building toppled and its sanctuary damaged. Despite the destruction, Pastor Preston Owens and the congregation have not lost faith.

“Liberty Hill Church, in beautiful downtown Aid, received a setback, but I can’t wait to see where this takes us forward. Blessings will follow," congregation member Larry Warren said.

In response to the overwhelming offers of help, Owens asked in return, “Just pray. Pray for our church. Pray for those that are working. Pray for safety. For everybody who is putting their hands to work out here. Pray that we make wise and sound decisions on all these things.”

Owens said, “The church is not a place, it is a people. This building is an amazing blessing, but you know what... it’s not the church. The church is the people.”

Sunday services were canceled this past weekend, but family worship and prayer night was scheduled to be at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 19.