The Southern Baptist Convention’s Executive Committee voted Feb. 18 to give $100,000 to help Union University rebuild from the devastating tornado that wrecked the campus almost two weeks earlier.
David Dockery, left, president of Union University, accepts a check for $100,000 from Bill Harrell, chairman of the SBC Executive Committee, Feb. 18, to help the school with rebuilding efforts in the aftermath of the Feb. 5 tornado.“The officers of the Executive Committee discussed this last night,” chairman Bill Harrell of Augusta, Ga., told Union president David Dockery as he presented the check. “We knew what the heart of Southern Baptist people is on a subject like this. We want to give you a gift to help you put the campus back in first-class condition.”
“We are very grateful for your kindness and generosity to us in this moment of need at Union University,” Dockery replied. “This is my first time away from the university in 13 days, and it has been 13 days like we never could have imagined.
“I just want you to know of our heartfelt, deep and genuine appreciation,” Dockery continued. “The recovery road is long. It will not be easy. It will be painful. And we are going to need your ongoing help and prayers, support and encouragement for many weeks and months to come. I want to thank churches across the Southern Baptist convention for their prayers and willingness to stand with Union University during this important time in the life and history of this great institution.”
Executive Committee members watched a video presentation about the tornado striking Union’s campus, including not only an overview of the physical destruction but also testimonies from students and parents about God’s protection during the storm.
Afterward, Dockery said Union’s hope for the future is rooted in their confidence in God’s love and power.
“We are hopeful because we believe in a God who raises the dead, and out of the rubble will come renewal,” Dockery said. “There is hope for Union University because we have confidence in our great God. He has protected us. He will provide for us.