Is it possible for a church to rise again like a phoenix from the ashes? The Saint Nicholas of Myra Mission almost met a tragic end during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The Saint Nicholas of Myra Mission nearly succumbed to the devastating floodwaters. The church building miraculously survived, but the interior was ravaged, and all the furniture was lost. For six long months, the heart of the Saint Nicholas of Myra Mission community was displaced. Father Ellis, the pastor, found refuge in Houma, Louisiana. The spirit of the community remained unbroken. Services continued at Deacon Gregory’s home, a testament to their unwavering faith. Finally, in November 2005, the long road to recovery began with the start of the church’s reconstruction. The path wasn’t easy. The initial contractor faced numerous setbacks, but Deacon Gregory and Karen Haddad stepped in to oversee the project personally. Their dedication, fueled by the generosity of various Eparchies and countless individuals, allowed the Saint Nicholas of Myra Mission to reopen its doors on Palm Sunday, 2008. The church’s rebirth symbolized the resilience of the community, their faith unshaken amidst the storm. The Saint Nicholas of Myra Mission stands today as a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of community and the enduring presence of faith, even in the face of adversity.
Greater Saint Stephen Full Gospel Baptist Church
Established 82 years ago this is Greater St Stephen Full Gospel Baptist Church. It began in Uptown New Orleans with