During Rita many area business, homes and churches were destroyed beyond repair, but somehow the community was able to overcome.

The Rev. Dr. L. W. Scott Sr., pastor of Eastern Star Baptist Church, and his congregational members united with True Faith Baptist Church.

True Faith, 3880 Gulfway Drive, was one of the many churches destroyed during Rita and Eastern Star graciously opened its doors to them.

True Faith was given the option of having an early morning service for just its congregation, but chose to join the Eastern Star service at 11 a.m.

For eight months the two churches were joined as one and had the “best of two churches this side of heaven and earth” under one roof.

“Rev. Scott and Eastern Star congregation have been an inspirational blessing and we thank God for the things they have done for True Faith,” a member of True Faith said.

On Sunday, May 28, Scott announced to the congregation of Eastern Star that True Faith’s congregation was going to consolidate with Eastern Star.

The two churches came together with nothing but praise and thanksgiving.

In an attempt to continue the excitement, Eastern Star invites the public to take part in the formal consolidation of the two churches at 11 a.m. Sunday, June 11.

Guest speaker for the morning service is the Rev. Jim Moss of Love Worth Sharing Ministries of Nacogdoches.

Later the same day, at 3 p.m., the churches will culminate with the 17-year appreciation service for its pastor, the Rev. Dr. L. W. Scott, and family.

Guest speaker for the service will be Rev. Delbert Mack and the Cathedral of Faith Baptist Church of Beaumont.