Monday, September 25, 2000
Xenia gives thanks for blessings
By Cindi Andrews
The Cincinnati Enquirer
XENIA — “Thank you, God.” Xenia residents sent that message heavenward Sunday as they paused to appreciate their blessings amid the rubble from Wednesday's tornado.
At least four damaged churches were forced to move their Sunday services. A bandshell at Shawnee Park was the site of an impromptu prayer service led by the Rev. Jesse Jackson, leader of the Rainbow Coalition.
Children who were at Xenia Church of God when it was flattened Wednesday returned with their parents Sunday to the “barn” — a cement block building where youth programs are held.
As the remains of the church were cleared away by bulldozers and dump trucks in a steady mist, 220 people crowded into the barn — which wasn't damaged — for services and a lunch donated by Don's Super Valu.
Sherry Dyer attended “just to say thank you. My baby girl's here,” she said, hugging Kendra Dyer, 6. Kendra was one of 18 youngsters in the church Wednesday; son DaVaughn Staley, 10, was in the barn.
One person was killed and at least 100 people were hurt in Wednesday's storm. It destroyed 50 houses and damaged up to 125 houses and about 20 businesses.
The church's destruction also was deja vu for Harold Stevens, a Lebanon resident who was pastor of Xenia Church of God 26 years ago — when its Orange Street building was leveled.
“A lot of good things came out of the last tornado, and a lot of good things will come out of this one,” Mr. Stevens said after the service.
For one thing, he said, the tragedy helped unify the different denominations.
The Rev. Mr. Jackson, who stopped in Xenia after being in Cincinnati, urged a crowd of 100 not to lose sight of the important things: “The storm cometh and the storm goes away. But you are here with what matters: each other.”
Katy Molitor, emotional after helping friends whose homes were damaged, was grateful for the Rev. Mr. Jackson's visit: “I don't think he could say it any better.”
Teen friends drown in culvert
Abortion's not the primary issue, but it's divisive
Where the candidates stand
Can The Banks ever get done?
Peace activists make pleas here
Peace is goal, message of gathering
Results of our news poll
Xenia gives thanks for blessings
Jackson preaches voter responsibility
New medical marvels: tiny chips, sensors
Alternative medicine for kids
Resources on complementary medicine
Therapies under the microscope
Airline adventures: Hurry up and wait
GET TO IT
Jarvi demonstrates great skill
Pig Parade: Metamorphoswine
Don't let exercise become drudgery
'Feeling fat' can be catch-all for frustration
FIT BITS
Pets need to stay in shape
You asked for it
