Dave Kelley Reports on Conditions in Florida Presbytery

We were anxious to get down here to North Fort Myers and survey the damage that our property received. We were very lucky in that we lost a tree and some screening, we feel very blessed. This morning we attended our church down here, Burnt Store Presbyterian Church, and learned of the impact Hurricane Ian had on churches in the Peace River Presbytery.

The Chapel by the Sea on Fort Myers Beach had only the steel girders left standing and the concrete floor had a large hole in it from the force of the water. Other congregations lost their sanctuary and are holding services outside. BSPC had their sanctuary severely damaged by water to the point we may not be worshipping in there for many months. We held services in an all purpose room which had tarps taped to the ceiling to prevent further damage. A new roof, drywall, mechanical devices etc. will all need to be replaced.

BSPC will be welcoming their new pastor and his family from South Africa next Sunday. All are excited for his arrival. Buildings aside, many congregation members throughout the Presbytery were devastated by Ian and have lost most everything.

In addition to your prayers, the Presbytery will need financial assistance to help parishioners and churches. I encourage Derry members and others in Carlisle Presbytery to give to Presbyterian Disaster Relief or send contributions directly to the Peace River Presbytery at 2230 Harriet Street, Port Charlotte, FL  33952.