By Brian Blackwell, Message Staff Writer
HAMMOND – Since it was constituted 30 years ago, Hillside Baptist Church has been known as a loving congregation which survived its share of trials.
Despite an optimistic attitude, the congregation of 20 could not overcome several feet of water that filled the worship center – after the Natalbany River overflowed its banks in August – wiping out pews, hymnals and three decades of memories.
Among the few items not destroyed was the baptistery.
Lacking flood insurance, the congregation decided to close permanently, but they were looking for a way to continue contributing to Kingdom work, even in the face of shutting down and turning over the keys Sept. 8 to the family who originally donated the property.
During this time of seeking God’s guidance, Hillside members were inspired to donate the baptistery to a congregation that was busy soul-winning and in need of one – and found out Still Water Baptist Church in Hammond was waiting to baptize 13 new believers.
Pastor Gerald Burton was excited his Hillside congregation was able to give away something that can bless others for generations to come.
“The devastating fact that all was lost was a very hard blow to the few remaining members we had,” Burton said. “This is one good thing that came out of a very terrible situation that left many of our own members with water inside their homes and no flood insurance.
“We got a lot of use from the baptistery,” he added, “and our church is so pleased that we could help another church in need.”
Lonnie Wascom, director of missions for Northshore Baptist Association of which Hillside is a member, said the gesture should serve as an example to others throughout Louisiana.
“What a blessing to know the legacy established by Hillside’s faithfulness is continuing in the baptism of believers reached by Still Water Baptist Church,” he said.
Hillside Baptist is the only Louisiana Baptist Convention congregation to close because of the August floods, although more than 70 were flood damaged.
The congregation’s decision to disband was made despite a Louisiana Baptist initiative to partner healthy congregations with those impacted by the flooding in southern Louisiana.
Most of the other congregations already have been paired with sister churches, but there are still some in need of companions to come alongside and help them rebuild, according to Wayne Jenkins, director of evangelism for Louisiana Baptists. Jenkins said the biggest needs now are skilled tape setters and floaters to install drywall.
For information on how to partner with a flood-impacted church, call 318.446.3242.
