Pasco County church hopes to rebuild after roof was damaged during Milton

WESLEY CHAPEL., Fla. (WFLA)- Pastor Scott Lindner drove over to Atonement Lutheran Church on Thursday morning and found out part of the church’s roof was blown off.

Pieces of insulation, shingles, wood, and nails were scattered across the parking lot.

“We’re just trying to grasp the scope of this destruction,” Pastor Scott said.

Despite the debris outside the building, Scott said he realized the church’s cross remained untouched on the roof.

“It’s sticking up a little higher than normal because the roof around it is gone but yup, that is a sign to the whole community,” Scott said.

Members of the congregation walked inside to look at the damage and noticed all of the crosses there also remained standing.

Pastor Scott also pointed to a candle, the ‘eternal flame’, which was still ignited despite all the wind, rain, and debris that made its way inside.

“God’s hand has been upon us and even though the storm was long and loud, he has protected us and given us a place to rebuild from,” Scott said.

Due to Milton, the church’s food pantry was closed on Wednesday, but they hope to re-open it for individuals next Wednesday.

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