First Baptist Church of Columbia collects $60,000 for flood relief at benefit concert
October 28, 2015
COLUMBIA, SC – First Baptist Church of Columbia hosted a benefit concert featuring modern hymn writers Keith and Kristyn Getty on Oct. 11, raising $60,000 in support of United Way of the Midlands’ and the Columbia Metro Baptist Association’s flood relief efforts.
With the severe flooding impacting the state, the previously scheduled event at First Baptist Church was repurposed as a benefit concert to aid flood victims in establishing permanent or intermediate housing for those who suffered devastating losses.
“First Baptist Church has a long history of ministering to the people of our community,” said Senior Pastor Dr. Wendell Estep. “Our own church family was impacted by the recent storm with some of our members’ homes being flooded, cars damaged, and one death. We continue to work with and pray for all who have suffered from this devastation.”
During the event, the church took donations and the Gettys donated all profit from the sales of their newly released Christmas CD to flood relief efforts.
Columbia Metro Baptist Association, like United Way of the Midlands, has been engaged in relief efforts since the flooding began, when the organization found shelter for and provided other assistance to flood victims.
“As the Director of the Columbia Metro Baptist Association, I am excited to see our community working together. First Baptist Church of Columbia has graciously given this gift to serve its community. I am so thankful for First Baptist! Way to go Church,” said Bill Dieckmann, Director of Missions for the Columbia Metro Baptist Association.
“United Way was honored to be a part of this benefit concert that First Baptist so generously made available to our community,” said United Way of the Midlands president and CEO Mac Bennett.
United Way of the Midlands, Columbia Metro Baptist Association and First Baptist Church of Columbia continue to engage with flood relief efforts by coordinating housing, responding to general community needs and planning for long-term recovery.
