Church fundraiser helps cover flood damage repairs

LUPUS, Mo. - When the Missouri River crested in May and June, residents in Moniteau County saw record flood stages. The National Weather Service recorded a crest of 33.44 feet on June 5.

The Lupus Baptist Church was damaged as water entered the fellowship hall and worship building at 3855 Adams St.

Music director and 45-year resident Cheryl Cassil coordinated a fish fry fundraiser to assist with repairs for June 29.

"The fish fry was very successful," Cassil said. "We served over 250 people."

At the Jamestown Community Building, a meal of fried fish, potato salad, baked beans, coleslaw, tomatoes, corn bread and desserts were served for a freewill donation.

Ahead of the fundraiser, Cassil reached out to neighboring churches to get the word out and request prayers and support. The local Baptist church in Jamestown provided volunteers, she said.

"The church was very thankful for the support that we received," Cassil said.

Pastor David Griffith said the donations should be enough to do a lot of the repairs and the church does not expect to hold another fundraiser.

"Thank you to everyone that participated in the fundraiser," Griffith said. "We appreciate all their help and what they've done."

Carpet replacement and cleaning is underway in the fellowship hall and expected to be completed by July 14.

Griffith said a few members headed the initial cleanup efforts.

"They are just doing a fantastic job of getting things cleaned up while a lot of us have to work," Griffith said.

Official evaluations of the sanctuary took place during the weekend.

Previous Sunday worship services were at member's homes when water remained in the buildings. The Lupus congregation's regular attendance is about 30. The church plans to meet in the fellowship hall July 14.

"We're not able to meet in the sanctuary yet because the mold and the carpet," Griffith said. "There's a possibility that we might be able to get in there this Sunday."

Exact repairs beyond the carpet were not determined by print time. Cassil said water continues to sit underneath the structure. For information regarding Sunday service, call Griffith at 573-694-1307.