By Message Staff
LARTO (LBM) — Larto Baptist Church has opened its front lawn as a sanctu-ary for residents wanting to protect their vehicles and personal belongings from rising floodwaters in the community.
Since early May, water levels have risen four feet in the community located 24 miles south of Jonesville. Nearly 40 cars are parked on the church lawn which rises seven feet higher than the surrounding area,
Pastor Kenny Smith told the Baptist Message. “Our church yard looks like a used car lot,” Smith said. “We are showing our support for our neighbors, many who have water near their homes and with the only way to get out by boat. Any-one who needs help, we do it because Christ commands it of us.”
Smith said only four people attended worship services Sunday, May 19, because most of the residents were unable to travel to the campus.
According to the Annual Church Profile database, Larto Baptist averages 35 worshipers for Sunday morning service.
All activities likely will be cancelled for the coming weeks, Smith said.
Meanwhile, Smith asked Louisiana Baptists to pray for his congregation and community.
“Pray that people that are behind the backwater are able to get supplies,” Smith said, “and for their protection. When there is high water, you have snakes and alligators that like to roam around more than usual. Also, pray that we are able to continue ministering to our community and and show the love of Jesus.”
