By The Rev. John Roberts
Rector, The Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration
Our historic stone church stands on a hillside overlooking the, now broader, river below, and I have the privilege to serve as pastor at the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration in Bat Cave. In the early days after Helene, it was unknown if members of the congregation were safe, how our Gorge community was fairing, and if our building was still standing. This was not an unfamiliar story for many of us at that time, but I can still deeply remember the fear of the unknown and anxiety about what was still to come. While there are so many stories yet unknown and untold about those difficult days, we are all deeply grateful for those who made it to safety, and we are thankful to be part of such a strong and beautiful community.
A few weeks after Helene, a church member and I were able to drive close enough to our little stone church to hike down to it. What a beautiful sight to see our building still standing watch over the river, even in the midst of such a different landscape. As many know, there are not many buildings left along the main road through Bat Cave, and road access is limited. But as we walked down, one building stood out. It had a simple sign on which someone had painted, “Still Here, Still Standing.” I needed to see that. I think we all need to hear it. We are, as the Hickory Nut Gap Gorge, still here and still standing. Thanks be to God. This is not to dismiss the tremendous loss felt by so many, but they are words of hope, determination, and community. They are words that can define us as we rebuild. I have adopted the spirit of these words to help keep me going, perhaps they are helpful to you as well.
While we are all living with various levels of grief and loss, I pray many of us have seen and felt beautiful moments of hope as well. Many of these moments have been in the incredible response of community members: the dedication of time to help with rescue efforts, the work done to rebuild our roads and infrastructure (and I am amazed at the progress!), the simple kindnesses of neighbors, the leadership of community leaders, and through the generosity of so many who are sending money for relief work. From the people of the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration, and on behalf of our neighbors in Bat Cave, we offer our deep thanks and appreciation. Thanks to this support and deep strength found within, we are still here and still standing – together.
We all have stories to share. This type of event will shape and change us in many ways yet unknown. As for our church community, having to rebuild is not new to our story over the decades in Bat Cave and, like before, we are determined to be back together as soon as possible. We are beyond ready to get back to worshiping together, to get back to our ministries, and to help rebuild our community. Let us know if there are specific ways we can partner with you.
Our sweet stone church, that is still here and still standing watch over the river, points towards a reminder of the hope found in the Resurrection of Jesus. Together, as neighbors, we are here for each other. My friends, even in the darkest of storms, know you are loved, valued, and welcomed by our community and by God.
