The Rev. Jeffrey Maxwell, superintendent of the Saginaw Bay District, reports that the West Branch UMC experienced significant damage from the hail storm on August 2.

Hail 4 1/2 inches in diameter punched holes in the church roof, rendering the building unusable except for the sanctuary. The parsonage has a steel roof and was not damaged.

Prayers are requested for the congregation and Pastor Tim Dibble as the clean-up moves forward.

Currently the Detroit and West Michigan conferences are in the midst of developing an Area Disaster Relief approach. Bob Miller, the Disaster Response Coordinator for the Detroit Conference, is offering assistance in West Branch. Dan OMalley is West Michigan’s Disaster Response Coordinator.

Last Updated on August 4, 2015