First Grace United Methodist: A Union out of Devastation

First Grace United Church from their site.

First Grace United Methodist Church is a fine example of the bonding of New Orleans as a result of Hurricane Katrina.  First Graces United Church is actually the bonding of two churches less than one block away from each other.  First United Church was a predominantly white congregation, and Grace United Methodist was a predominantly African-American congregation, yet when they both dealt with the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, they came together under one combined church: First Grace.  This church is said to be one of the most diverse churches in the city of New Orleans.  In this article, Stephanie Martin states,

 “It’s the coming together. It’s black, it’s white, it’s Latino … and it’s love. I guarantee you if you come, you’re gonna feel the love!”  First Grace is again, a classic example of the teamwork and love shared among New Orleanians as a result of Katrina.  I find it fascinating that Katrina, something so devastating  could bring people together, and that through religion is where we find such strong and courageous examples of love and support in New Orleans.