A large part of Southern Baptists’ success in Disaster Relief is due to partnerships.

That was evident in Anderson County, SC, recently. As a severe storm swept across the area in May 2024, it brought massive trees down on cars, houses, and yards. Although the local Saluda Baptist Association had a Disaster Relief (DR) chainsaw unit, it was obvious that the need for help was greater than one team could handle. John Watkins, Associational Mission Strategist, requested that other Disaster Relief units respond.

Partnering to Serve

Assessing the damage, local pastors helped to identify areas of need. SCBaptist DR office mobilized chainsaw units from other Associations and churches. Watkins and Saluda Baptist Association helped with coordinating the teams, even providing office space. Because of the joint cooperation and partnerships, pastors of several local churches had opportunities to touch lives and minister in ways they would not have been able to on their own.

“The display of Kingdom partnership makes me thankful to be a part of a larger group of believers that sacrifice their time, resources, and physical strength to help share the love of Christ in our communities,” Watkins said.

Caring for Residents

With 12 responding DR units, volunteers wasted no time clearing debris in Anderson County. Their service prompted one pastor to say, “The DR teams’ presence allowed me to share the Gospel with my neighbors as I explained why our team members volunteer their time and effort to help others.” He continued, “They showed my neighborhood the love of Christ in a tangible way that will leave a lasting impression and opportunities for follow-up conversations in the coming days.”

The Anderson DR response demonstrates the value of our partnerships in ministry. As SCBaptists come together to serve, lift the needy in prayer, and give through the Cooperative Program and the Janie Chapman Offering, we continue to show our belief in the value of every life.