May 21, 2025
To the Saints of the Church Of God In Christ and our beloved family in the St. Louis metropolitan area,
Our hearts are deeply burdened as we witness the aftermath of the devastating tornado that has swept through St. Louis, leaving behind destruction and loss—displaced families, shattered homes and damaged churches. Yet, even as the winds howled and the skies darkened, I am reminded of a powerful truth: the Church still stands.
We stand not because buildings remain, but because our faith is unshakable, our God is faithful, and our love for one another is immovable.
As your Presiding Bishop, I want you to know that you are not alone. I will personally visit several of the communities affected by this storm to stand with you, to listen, to pray, and to witness firsthand the road ahead. We are committed to walking this journey of recovery with you—not just in the immediate aftermath, but for the weeks and months to come.
Through COGIC Charities, our benevolent arm, we are actively mobilizing resources and aid to provide much-needed relief to our churches and members who have been impacted. Our support will not be fleeting—it will be steady, compassionate, and faithful, just as our God is.
In the midst of this tragedy, we will also gather for the 75th Women’s International Convention next week, under the anointed leadership of General Supervisor Mother Barbara Mc Coo Lewis. It is not lost on us that this convention will be held in the very city that has endured such pain. But we believe this timing is divine—God is calling us to rise as one body and declare hope over despair, peace over fear, and love over loss.
Let us remember: even in the storm, the Church still stands. And from the rubble, love—God’s love—will rise.
To every family grieving, to every church recovering, to every soul feeling the weight of uncertainty: your Church sees, your Church stands, and your Church will not let you walk this road alone.
In His Unfailing Love,
Bishop John Drew Sheard
Presiding Bishop and Chief Apostle
Church of God in Christ, Inc.
