Tornado damaged church still holds Easter service

GLENALLEN, Mo. (KBSI) – With Glenallen still reeling from an EF2 tornado, one church still held its Easter Sunday.

Heritage Apostolic Church was heavily damaged.

“Everybody’s going to be really tired so we are going to have it at 1 p.m. One service at 1,” said Pastor Ivan Dowd. 

Pastor Dowd says the church has been used to help residents in the community.

“We are cooking meals for those who are volunteering, those who have been victims of this tornado, and we are also distributing care goods for anyone needing it in this area,” said Pastor Dowd. 

Bob Masters has been a neighbor to the church. He says Heritage Apostolic Church has been a great help during his time of need.

“We are very blessed to have Heritage Apostolic Church next to us and in the community,” samd Masters. “They are doing so much for us.” 

Master says despite the building being a total loss, the paster still wanted to make sure the residents knew they are available to help.

“Instead of them worrying about their church, they’re out here feeding people,” said Masters. “They are making sure we have supplies. They come over here all the time to let us know they have warm meals over there.” 

Pastor Down says no one in his congregation was hurt in the tornado. They have already talked about plans to rebuild.

“Heritage Apostolic Church is going to build again and bigger and better,” said Pastor Dowd. “We’re moving on.” 

The Heritage Apostolic Church held its Easter Sunday service at 1 p.m.