By Message Staff
LIVINGSTON – Near tragedy turned into jubilation over the weekend at Satsuma Baptist Church.
Separated after flash flooding caused some in Livingston to be trapped, family members living near the church were reunited with one another on Sunday.
Two different boats transported people to throughout the day to the church, dropping each rescued person off and into the arms of anxious but grateful members of displaced families.
Pastor Brad Delaughter said he is grateful for how his congregation and the entire community rose to the occasion.
“It was just a blessing to witness that, to see our church was used as a part of that,” Delaughter said. “We are the hands and feet of Jesus. To come together as an Acts 2 church and see the tangible effects are amazing.
“And to see all the Southern Baptist churches in our area doing more than they ever have and helping each other minister and supplying each other’s needs where short is truly a humbling experience,” he said.
Since Saturday afternoon, Satsuma Baptist has sheltered 110 people. Many people in his congregation have left their own houses – some which were damaged by high floodwaters – to serve meals, pass out supplies and just provide a listening ear for those who are hurting at the church, which has been designated a distribution center by Livingston Parish.
Delaughter said he is grateful to see Acts 2:42-47 come to life before his eyes.
“I am at church with many of our church family,” Delaughter said. “God is richly supplying our need as of now.
“Supernatural blessings are occurring now,” he said. “Those in the shelter have a wonderful heart and are helping one another and sacrifice for the benefit of each other.”