Associated Press
Monday, May 14, 2007

GREENSBURG, Kan., May 13 -- Church leaders told more than 3,000 residents, volunteers and disaster workers, gathered Sunday in this tornado-ravaged community, that they should not fear the future because God was with them.

The nondenominational service marked the first time the congregations have worshiped in Greensburg since a May 4 tornado destroyed more than 90 percent of the town and killed nine people there.

Tears and hugs were common as many residents saw each other for the first time since the tornado. Volunteers passed out flowers to mothers in honor of Mother's Day.

"We are a scattered, dispersed community. But the Lord Jesus is our redeemer and is with us. 'Do not fear for I am with you,' says the Lord," said the Rev. Gene McIntosh, pastor of First United Methodist Church in Greensburg.

The Rev. Timothy Henning, pastor of Peace Lutheran Church in Greensburg, likened the town's plight to that of Job, whom God tested by taking away everything he loved but who kept his faith through it all: "We are like him -- we lost everything."

Henning reminded residents that God is still with them.

Those attending held hands as the Rev. Willard Olinger, the elderly pastor of Faith Tabernacle, reassured them that Greensburg will be rebuilt, even if it is not within his lifetime.

Bob and Donna Detwiler, residents of neighboring Pratt whose son-in-law's parents lost their home, said they wanted to be with family here for services.

"It is a chance to get this many people together -- to give them something to think about other than the tragedy they have been through," Donna Detwiler said.