On February 5, 2008, an EF-4 tornado hit Union University in Jackson, TN, damaging 80% of the dorms and many other buildings. Our ABF has at least 3 members who were former students of Union. Some of us personally know people who were saved from the rubble. $40 million is the current cost associated with the recovery.

Heroes abound as Union rebuilds. I have been told that due to requirements from the insurance company, students were not allowed to go back inside the dorms to salvage belongings. Instead, their very professors and administrators carefully filled bags and suitcases in their place. Truly, this is what it means to love your neighbor as yourself. The other testament to the leadership’s dedication is that the school has made housing accommodations for all 1,200 students to continue the Spring Semester, beginning February 20th!

The Union University website has a plethora of information about the Disaster Relief Fund, stories from the recovery, and some amazing footage taken by students. Southern Seminary is raising $35-50K to replace much of the Christian Studies library. Check out the Seminary News service to make a donation.

Please continue to pray as these dedicated students and faculty deal with the traumatizing effects of the storm and as they gather on move-in day, February 19th. Praise God for His miraculous mercy, sparing all of their lives! Praise Him as onlookers see true Christian service in action.