Help Rebuild Redeemer Lutheran Church

On May 16, an F4 tornado with winds upward of 170 mph tore through Somerset, Kentucky, leaving destroyed businesses and property. In its path was Redeemer Lutheran Church. For nearly 60 years, Redeemer gained a reputation for simple faith, love for others, and its simple sign out front. The sign, in particular, gained a following among the community for its clever and thought-provoking statements. But Redeemer was more than just a sign. Behind the scenes, this humble little church sponsored homeless families, helping them to secure housing, contributed thousands of dollars for flood victims, and contributed weekly in support of area food banks.

But on May 16, the tornado ripped Redeemer's humble sanctuary apart, scattering pews, its beloved piano, and even blew its pulpit out the back wall into the parking lot. The rest of the building fared no better. Windows, doors, the roof, and even walls were heavily damaged. In the aftermath, the church is facing enormous repair and rebuilding costs; costs that are certain to exceed their insurance coverage. The entire community has rallied to Redeemer's aid and have requested a way to express their support. This fund will undergird their insurance coverage and ensure this humble group of believers can continue their work, new sign and all.

I'm Pastor Doug Couch. It's been my privilege to serve as Redeemer's pastor since 2015. In consultation with our church council, I'm starting this fund to help the church get back on a safe and solid financial footing. Every single dollar raised in this campaign will go toward the church's rebuilding fund and nowhere else. Any funds exceeding our final goal will be used to assist others in our area also suffering the effects of this historic storm.