“Welcome to Parkway Presbyterian Church.” I say, beaming. “I’m your tour guide for this fascinating history lesson. You may not see much from the outside.” I point to the unremarkable brick façade. “However, inside there are stories of resilience and faith, stories of a church that rose from the ashes, like a phoenix, after the devastating Hurricane Katrina.”
Parkway Presbyterian Church is a beacon of community in the heart of Jefferson Parish. Its congregation is a testament to the power of shared faith, a community thriving through adversity. They gather in this church to sing, to pray, to celebrate life, and to lean on each other during trials and tribulations. I’ve always liked the church’s motto: “a church for Christ in the 21st century.”
But this story is not just about the building. “After Katrina,” I explain as I look into the eyes of my audience, “Parkway Presbyterian Church didn’t just rebuild themselves. They became the heart of relief efforts for their community. They fed the hungry, clothed those in need, and offered a helping hand and a welcoming embrace to those who had lost everything.”
“Even before the storm,” I continue, “this church had a reputation for its open arms and generous spirit. The local AA, NA, and ALANON meetings found their home here. Even a peace group called the Ulster Project aimed to bring peace to Northern Ireland found refuge in this small church. For over a century, Parkway Presbyterian Church has been a place where people heal, where people find hope, and where people find a community that loves and supports them unconditionally.”
“Don’t underestimate the power of a small brick building.” I smile, feeling the history whisper through the air – a history marked by sorrow and resilience. “Parkway Presbyterian Church is a testament to the indomitable spirit of this community. It is a powerful reminder that faith, love, and compassion can overcome any obstacle.”