Rebuilding Efforts Continue for Tornado-Struck Town

November 17, 2014, marks the one-year anniversary of the tornado that swept through Washington, Illinois, destroying over 1,000 homes and several businesses. In the midst of the aftermath, many Calvary Evangelical Mennonite Church families found themselves homeless. In town, some businesses closed their doors for good, and more than a few families opted to move out of town rather than rebuild.

In the midst of the struggle, many in the congregation are finding hope and unity, rallying around families whose homes were destroyed. “I’ve never seen us come together like this,” says Ken Sistrunk, pastor. Several FEC churches have already sent assistance, either through monetary donations or work teams. “The work crew which came from Boynton Mennonite Church,” says Ken, “was one of the hardest-working groups I’ve ever met.” But there’s still much to do. “We need help in areas that insurance didn’t cover, especially before winter kicks in,” says Ken, “particularly with debris cleanup and landscaping.”

If you or your church would like to join in these efforts, please call Ken Sistrunk at (309) 444-2722.