Twister destroys Indiana church

An Oct. 18 tornado that damaged or destroyed 199 homes and 53 businesses in Nappanee, Ind., demolished an Assemblies of God church in the town of 7,100.

The twister wiped out the sanctuary and most of the upper floor at New Beginnings Assembly of God. The building has since been condemned and is scheduled for demolition.

The church was unoccupied when the tornado hit, and no injuries were reported.

The tornado also destroyed the church’s bus, two storage buildings and maintenance equipment.

The congregation of approximately 50 is meeting in facilities owned by another local church.

“When you face something like this you know you can’t rebuild on your own,” says Mick Tomlinson, pastor at New Beginnings. “It takes God stirring the hearts of the people to rebuild, and that is what He is doing. Not only in our church, but God is stirring others to come and help.”

Though the church was insured, Tomlinson says the settlement may not cover all the losses.

AG Disaster Relief has set up a fund for the church. Donations can be made either online or by mail. When donating online, write "IN Tornado" in the comment field. To donate by mail, send a check to AG Disaster Relief, 1445 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, MO 65802-1894 and write “IN Tornado” on the memo line.

— Christina Quick