On Friday night, Elgin, Illinois, was struck by a storm that caused significant damage to the roof of the First United Methodist Church, located at 216 E. Highland Ave. Although initial reports pointed to a tornado as the potential cause, the National Weather Service (NWS) has since determined that the damage was likely caused by straight-line winds, not a tornado or microburst, as was initially speculated.
According to NWS meteorologist Ricky Castro, there was no conclusive evidence to suggest a tornado had touched down in downtown Elgin. “We surveyed the area, and it was basically inconclusive what caused that roof to be lifted from the church,” Castro stated. While tornadoes usually leave behind a distinct path of destruction, the damage observed at the church did not fit this pattern. Investigators could not find sufficient evidence to confirm that a tornado had caused the damage, although they did not completely rule out the possibility.
The storm that swept through the area was part of a larger weather system that affected a wide swath of the central, southern, and eastern United States, according to the NWS. This low-pressure system, which moved across the region, led to a series of severe weather events, including brief EF-0 tornadoes in nearby areas like Bartlett, Hanover Park, and Yorkville. In Elgin itself, winds exceeded 50 mph, which contributed to the damage at the First United Methodist Church.
The damage at the church was particularly severe, as part of its copper roof was ripped off. The roof’s entire span will need to be replaced, and repairs to the building’s interior will also be necessary. The full cost of the repairs is still undetermined, according to Victoria Rebeck, director of communications for the Northern Illinois Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. The church has hired a company experienced in handling repairs for historic buildings and churches that have been damaged by natural disasters. The company will use shrink wrapping to cover the roof temporarily, replacing the standard tarps typically used to provide weatherproofing.
This is not the first time the church has had to contend with significant damage. Rebeck noted that the church was still in the process of repairing damage caused by a pipe burst on the building’s third floor that occurred three months earlier. Despite these ongoing repairs, the church remains committed to maintaining its services and ministries.
In response to the damage, the church had to shift its services online, with last Sunday’s service being held via Zoom. However, starting this Sunday, the congregation will meet at the recently closed Cornerstone United Methodist Church, located at 41W170 Russell Road, while the repairs at the Highland Avenue location continue. Despite the challenges, the church’s ministries, such as its soup kettle, will continue to be served from the Highland Avenue location, which has received much support from the local community.
The response from the community has been incredibly supportive, and many neighbors have visited the church to offer help and show their concern. Rebeck expressed her gratitude, saying, “It’s been gratifying that so many of the neighbors showed interest and stopped by. It’s meant a lot to the congregation.” This outpouring of support reflects the strong sense of community in Elgin and the important role that the First United Methodist Church plays in the area.
Bishop Dan Schwerin, leader of the Northern Illinois-Wisconsin Episcopal Area of The United Methodist Church, also expressed his gratitude for the resilience shown by the church and its members in the face of adversity. He commended Rev. Dr. Felicia LaBoy, the church’s lead pastor, and the congregation for their unwavering strength. “First United Methodist Church of Elgin has been a good neighbor for many years, and their neighbors are responding in kind with the love and mutual benefit we know in Christ,” Schwerin said in a statement.
Schwerin also emphasized the importance of faith in times of hardship, stating, “We are so grateful that there was no loss of life. These are the moments we consider the lilies and trust that God will provide clothing for this ministry and sustaining love and power for the days ahead.” This statement captures the faith-driven spirit that continues to guide the church as it navigates the difficult journey of rebuilding and recovery.
The community’s response has been an important reminder of the power of faith and community support in times of crisis. While the storm that caused the damage to the First United Methodist Church was a difficult blow, it is clear that the church will continue to stand as a beacon of hope and service in the Elgin area.
In addition to the physical damage to the church, local officials have also expressed concern about the broader impact of the storm. The Kane County Office of Emergency Management has asked the public to report any additional storm damage in order to determine if the county qualifies for federal disaster assistance. Homeowners, renters, and businesses are encouraged to file damage reports online to assist in the evaluation process. This collaborative effort aims to ensure that the community receives the necessary resources for recovery.
The storm that struck Elgin serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the vulnerability of communities when faced with severe weather events. However, it also highlights the importance of community resilience and the ability to come together in the face of adversity. The First United Methodist Church, despite the challenges it has faced, continues to serve as a pillar of strength for its congregation and the Elgin community.
The damage to the church’s roof is undoubtedly a setback, but with the continued support of the community and the faith-driven determination of the church’s members, the repairs will eventually be completed. As the church continues to carry out its ministries and provide a place of refuge and support for those in need, it remains a shining example of the power of faith and community in overcoming life’s obstacles.
As the rebuilding process begins, the church’s members will undoubtedly continue to draw strength from their shared commitment to serving others and from the love and support of their neighbors. The First United Methodist Church’s resilience in the face of adversity will be a testament to the strength of faith and the importance of community support during difficult times.
The storm may have caused physical damage to the church’s roof, but it has not shaken the foundation of the community’s faith. As repairs are made and services continue, the First United Methodist Church will remain a vital part of the Elgin community, offering support, love, and a place of sanctuary to all who seek it.
