Pastor Raymond Payne did not expect the new year to begin this way, but he says his congregation isn’t going to let it stop them from worshipping.
In the early morning hours of January 2, the alarm alerted Pastor Payne at 4:24 a.m. that someone was trying to break into the church. What they found when the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office arrived was heartbreaking.
Windows in the sanctuary were shattered with a hammer or sledgehammer. The glass doors had also been broken. Pieces of glass were scattered on the floor, surrounding a manger scene and Christmas tree.
Church opened as usual on Sunday morning. While the congregation was dismayed by what they saw, it did not hinder them from praising God.
“Our members love this church dearly. We prayed for those who did this to our church,” Pastor Payne said. “The Bible tells us we will have tribulations, and while this is disheartening, we are grateful no one was injured and we can recover from this.”
The deductible on the church’s insurance policy is high. Being a small church, the cost of repair will be a hardship.
“I want to let other churches know so that they are on the lookout if this is something that could happen to them,” Pastor Payne added.
At this time, little is known about those who vandalized the church, but an investigation is underway. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to contact Habersham County Dispatch at 706-778-3911.
Those wishing to contribute to help the church with cleanup and repairs may contact Welcome Home Baptist at 706-778-3308.
