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Operation Compassion: Tornado Hits Xenia Church of God
3/6/01

On September 20, 2000, a tornado hit the Xenia Church of God in Xenia, Ohio. The church was destroyed. “We Be Brethren,” the Church of God both nationally and statewide, responded to their need. The Church of God State Executive office, under the leadership of Bishop Tim Hill, responded with calls, offers of help and financial contributions. The response to the State Bishop’s letter and pictures of the demolished church building was overwhelming. Their gifts totaled over $27,000.

The International Office responded through “Operation Compassion.” Reverend David Lorency called the pastor for a report of the damages done to the church. It was totaled. Everything was lost including the pastor’s church library. “Operation Compassion” sent the church a semi truckload of food to distribute to the community. The church set up a place in the church parking lot to distribute food to all the volunteer workers. Over 200 workers were fed that day. The young people of the Xenia church took bottled water and food to 100 families that week. Over 350 homes were damaged, four of which, the children attended the Xenia church. In addition to the food, “Operation Compassion” delivered them office furniture, which included: desks, crodenzas, couches, bookcases, office chairs, file cabinets and fourteen folding tables. These will all be used in their new church.

Reverends’ John Nichols, David Lorency, Roger Abernathy and Robby James had a great heart for helping. A special “Thanks” from the Xenia Church of God to these men was expressed. Pastor Allen Gross also extended a special “Thank you” to Rev. David Lorency who gave and delivered to him his personal library. This book gift helped replace a 45-year collection of books, which the pastor had lost in the tornado.

The Xenia Church of God will soon rebuild. The architect has the plans now and in a few days, they will be breaking ground for the new church. The pastor thanks everyone for their prayers, donations and letters.

Operation Compassion is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt charitable organization.