Asheville – In the wake of Hurricane Helene, St. John Baptist Church in Arden has emerged as a beacon of hope, distributing tons of donations to those in need. However, the church now faces an unexpected challenge: they must find a new home after their leased warehouse was sold, leaving them with a deadline to vacate by February 12th.
A Hub for Community Support
Pastor Gwen Jones and her congregation have been pivotal in providing assistance to the community following the hurricane. The church has served as a distribution center for various organizations, including World Vision, which reached out to help after the storm. “Our challenges were significant, especially with communication and transportation,” Pastor Gwen explained. “Many people were disconnected and needed help, but we managed to mobilize resources and support.”
The church has been a vital resource for the surrounding communities, offering not just spiritual guidance but also physical support during times of crisis. “St. John has always been that hub for the community,” said Tangela Robinson, the church’s finance chair. “People come to us for resources, whether it’s food, shelter, or spiritual support.”
Urgent Need for a New Location
With their current location on a limited timeline, St. John Baptist Church is actively seeking a new location that can accommodate around 200 people. The search is particularly urgent as they aim to remain within the Asheville-Hendersonville area to continue serving their community effectively. “It’s crucial for us to stay close to where we are,” Pastor Gwen emphasized. “We have members coming from various communities, and we want to ensure we can continue our outreach.”
The church has reached out to commercial realtors and is exploring potential spaces, but the process has been challenging. “We’re looking for something affordable that meets our needs,” Tangela noted. “We don’t want to take on a burden that could hinder our mission.”
Community Support Needed
As they navigate this transition, St. John Baptist Church is calling on the community for assistance. They are seeking leads on available properties and financial support to help with the move. “We need prayers and any resources people can offer,” Pastor Gwen said. “This is not just about finding a building; it’s about continuing our mission to serve.”
For those who may have suggestions or know of potential locations, the church treasurer Tangela Robinson can be reached at TangelaGRobinson@gmail.com or (828)776-1182. The church hopes that with community support, they can find a new home that will allow them to continue their vital work in the Arden area.
As St. John Baptist Church faces this new chapter, their commitment to serving others remains unwavering. “The storm brought challenges, but it also brought opportunities for us to grow and continue our ministry,” Pastor Gwen reflected. “We trust that we will find a place where we can worship and serve our community.”