Repair cost estimations are currently being determined for damages to the partially collapsed roof and other structural work at the First Baptist Congregational Church, a National and Chicago Historic Landmark.
After terminating regular activities Tuesday evening due to the anticipated blizzard conditions, Church officials arrived there on Thursday, February 3rd, to find a collapsed roof and tower structure on the south end of the building.
Extreme blistering winds and weather related conditions caused the roof and a small tower to plunge more than 100ft, falling through the church balcony, vestibule and down to the front entrance of the church, causing major damage to the church exterior and interior. Also one of the 6 chambers of the great Kimball Pipe Organ, last valued at 1.2 million dollars sustained damage as well.
Maintenance worker, Michael McGee was the first to discover the tower structure in the middle of the street. Bro. McGee stated he was in total shock. He says he immediately began praying, not sure of what he may find inside of the church. He quickly notified Maintenance Supervisor, Dea. James Lyles and the rest now unfolds as a major part of our church history.
On Friday morning FBCC’s Communication Ministry held a press conference to answer any and all questions surrounding this calamity. Reporters from all of the local television stations and print media attended.
When asked about his feeling in regards to the disaster to the church as the result of the storm, Senior Pastor, Rev. George W. Daniels responded “It’s a bittersweet feeling, we’re thankful to God that it was at a time when no one was present, no one was hurt and it could have been so much worse, yet we are saddened to see our church in this condition”. Rev. Daniels further stated that his sermon today was titled “Putting God First is Peace”. Citing verse 33 of the Matthew 6:25-34 scripture text.
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” adding that when you trust God, he will bless you. Even in this, the Lord has shown us favor.”
Bro. Thomas Marks, Chairman of the Trustee Ministry spent countless hours with city building inspectors, insurance adjusters, structural engineers, cleaning services personnel, Star construction workers and others to assure that we are moving forward to restore our place of worship.
Sis. Barbara Griffin states she was very dismayed upon hearing the news, remembering the disaster of the Snow Storm of 1967. She says she thought of the church “But God has been so good, throughout the years and continues to bless us so much and He will continue to do it.” We trust Him through it all”.
College student, Jennifer Burgess, from Hampton University in VA. states “she was in shock to hear of the news on the Facebook network.” She says she’s praying for the church that the Lord will restore everything that was lost.
Sunday service, currently held at the Hope Institute location, this will be determined on a week by week basis. Let’s be prayerful at this time.
A fund has been established to assist with the astronomical cost of repair. Our church, being a national landmark has strict guidelines on what materials, etc. can be used. Please send all contributions as follows:
Checks should be made payable to:
Historic Landmark Storm Restoration Account
Bank Name/Address:
PNC Bank
2154 W. Madison
Chicago, IL. 60612
