NewsChannel5.com | Nashville News, Weather & SportsChurch Reopens after Tornado

Church Reopens after Tornado

LAFAYETTE, Tenn.- After 15 months of hard work, sweat, and no doubt a few tears, members of a Macon County church were rejoicing Sunday following the opening of their new home.

A fierce tornado destroyed their building, but it didn't destroy their faith. The service was a rebirth of sorts. It was not only a time of prayer and reflection for members of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church but a time of celebration.

"My faith was never shaken. I know god does things for a reason," said church member Hannah Holland.

"It's beautiful. It's really a beautiful gorgeous church," said church member Lisa Jenkins.

It was in February of last year when a tornado tore through Lafayette completely wiping out their church home. Some said it was a harsh test of faith. Despite the pain and heartache, parishioners pushed on and of this day, sang to the heavens in thanks of a new building and renewed hope.

"When we drove up that morning, we couldn't even get to the church for the debris, the trailers that had been thrown over in the road," said Hannah Holland. "To drive up this morning and see the building this morning, it was really surreal, but it's great to be back," she continued.

Sunday's service was emotional. Many members of the church are still dealing with the aftermath of that devastating tornado more than a year later. However, they say it's faith that got them through, and it's faith that will help them carry on.

The Antioch Missionary Baptist Church was founded back in 1847. It's one of the oldest congregations in Macon County.