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Rebuilding with Faith and Determination
In the heart of Abaco, where Hurricane Dorian’s wrath left a trail of destruction, the parish of St. Peter and St. Anne stands as a testament to resilience and faith. The storm that made landfall on September 1, 2019, as a Category 5 hurricane, brought winds exceeding 180 miles per hour and storm surges up to 23 feet, devastating everything in its path. Among the many structures ravaged by the storm were the church buildings, rectories, and halls of our parish.
Yet, even in the face of such overwhelming devastation, the spirit of the community remained unbroken. The concept of rebuilding, while daunting, also became a source of hope and a call to action for the parish members. To “rebuild” is more than just constructing again; it is about restoring and fortifying what once was, both physically and spiritually.
The Path to Rebuilding
Rebuilding after such a tragedy involves confronting harsh realities, including the enormous mess left behind. As Minister Shawn Drake wisely points out, successful rebuilding requires us to ask ourselves: Is there still a need for what will be rebuilt? Is there anything salvageable? Am I truly committed to the work it will take to rebuild? Answering “yes” to these questions means being ready to assess and tackle the damage with courage and dedication.
The destruction was severe; one of the rectories and the hall on Green Turtle Cay were completely lost, while other buildings, including the Anglican churches of the North, sustained significant damage. St. Simon’s Church in Treasure Cay was so badly hit that it remained closed for years after the storm.
Despite these challenges, the past few years have seen remarkable progress. Under the leadership of Fr. Ward and the tireless efforts of the parish community, much of the damage has been repaired. One of the rectories has been rebuilt, and St. Simon’s Church has reopened, symbolizing the community’s unwavering determination.
Rebuilding Ministries and Community
The physical rebuilding is ongoing, but another critical aspect of rebuilding is reviving the church’s ministries and fostering spiritual growth. Recognizing that “no one man is an island,” the parish has focused on harnessing diverse talents and perspectives to strengthen its ministries. As these ministries flourish, so does the community, cultivating members’ talents for the glory of God.
During Lent, the church engaged in a 21-day fast, seeking the rise of leaders committed to God’s call, who would serve as beacons of light in a troubled world. This rebuilding extends beyond physical structures to encompass the holistic growth of individuals within the parish. Upcoming retreats will target different segments of the Body of Christ in North Abaco, nurturing spiritual renewal and community engagement.
As the rector of St. Peter and St. Anne Parish, I acknowledge the steep hill that remains ahead. Yet, with God’s guidance, I am confident that we will overcome the obstacles and shine brightly as a community of faith. We warmly welcome financial support, building materials, and volunteers—both to help with construction and to contribute to our vibrant ministries.
We need your assistance!
To help, contact stspeteranneparish@gmail.com or contact the Diocesan office at 242.322-3015.
