On a recent visit to the disaster area, I traveled southward from Sarasota to worship with two of our congregations in the Port Charlotte area. The crescendo of damage that I witnessed was staggering. Tall, steel light posts at highway intersections were bent in half. Large, overhead directional signs were snapped off at the base. Manufactured and mobile homes in the storm's path stood no chance. Many were flattened, while others were ripped open revealing their contents. Aluminum siding was turned into shrapnel and debris littered the surrounding area as far as the eye could see.
The impact on the business community was equally severe. U.S. Highway 41 is a major commercial thoroughfare that parallels Interstate 75. Virtually every business for several miles suffered extensive damage -- only the newest and sturdiest structures were open for business. The resulting loss of employment and wages will significantly impact the area's economy and prolong the recovery period.
Roofs throughout the disaster area could not survive the wind's fury. Asphalt shingles were peeled away and tiles were pulverized. Only metal roofs survived. Adding to the misery, almost daily afternoon downpours, combined with oppressive heat and humidity, are creating conditions where mold can flourish like an aggressive virus, leaving many buildings and homes uninhabitable.
The wind damage was not confined to the coast, but extended across the width of the peninsula. In Arcadia, some 35 miles inland, the storm took a heavy toll on roofs and trees. The destructive winds stripped palm trees, snapped the pines, and uprooted large oak trees. Mound after mound of debris lined every street in the community.
Presbyterian churches sustained millions of dollars of damage. The estimate at First Presbyterian Church Port Charlotte is $1.9M due to extensive roof and water damage. While the sanctuary remained dry, water poured into offices and classrooms. First Presbyterian Church Punta Gorda, located in a beautiful setting near the bay, is a total loss. The hurricane collapsed the A frame-style roof into the sanctuary and severely damaged the roof on the remainder of the building. At First Presbyterian Church Arcadia, the steeple was heavily damaged and the heat and humidity badly buckled the parquet flooring in the fellowship hall. The church also experienced moderate roof and water damage.
The storm's impact on the staff and members of Presbyterian congregations was evident. Many, including some pastors, had difficulty controlling their emotions during worship. Many of the disaster survivors are elderly widowers, physically incapable of handling the arduous clean-up and repair tasks. The sense of powerlessness only adds to their despair.
Through it all, God has remained faithful and has been a source of strength and comfort for those who lost so much. Congregations are worshiping and sessions are meeting to make repair and rebuilding plans. Churches are bearing witness to the healing love of Christ by providing shelter, distributing relief supplies, organizing volunteer work teams, and advocating for the most vulnerable populations. While the devastated communities will never return to normal, there are many signs that a "new normal" is being created with the help of the faithful.
After viewing the destruction, the irony of a billboard had a profound impact on me. In describing a nearby housing development, it proudly boasted "Picture Postcard Living!" The Reverend Russ Hickman, pastor of FPC Port Charlotte, entitled his sermon "The Best is Yet to Come." As people of faith, we can confidently proclaim "May it be so." |
