Worshippers flock to Southeast Missouri churches seeking solace

Speaking the words of Christ to the crowds on the Mount of Olives, Kristi Howard read the verses from Matthew 5:

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

Blessed are the pure in heart for they will see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons of God."

Howard read the words during a service at Centenary United Methodist Church, where about 60 people had gathered. At St. Mary Cathedral, the Rev. Geoff Lamprea led a prayer as people continued to enter the church, a few in camouflage fatigues, while hymnals lay in the wooden pews open to "America the Beautiful."

The services across Cape Girardeau were much the same as people wiped away tears, bowed their heads and listened as pastors and church leaders reminded the community and nation Friday that God and faith can be a source of strength during a time of confusion and fear.

Church bells rang at 11:55 a.m. as hundreds of people -- many dressed in red, white and blue clothing, streamed into the city's churches Friday. They were responding to the president's call for a national day of prayer and remembrance.

Some churches simply opened their doors to the people seeking sanctuary. Others held half-hour worship services that included prayer and hymns.

Many of the community's churches will remain open through next week for people seeking solace.

A candlelight memorial service, "The Heartland Remembers," will be at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Show Me Center in Cape Girardeau. The service will be broadcast live on KFVS and on all Zimmer radio stations.

A memorial banner will be available for people to sign, and school children are invited to bring drawings. An offering will be collected to be distributed through the Area Wide United Way to national agencies.

Another memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Sept. 22 at First Assembly of God Church in Scott City, Mo. The city's fire and police departments have been invited to participate.

Several pastors admit being stretched in their ministries this week as they struggle through personal emotions and sort out answers to questions raised by parishioners.

A group of 16 area pastors gathered Friday morning at the Southeast Missouri Hospital chapel to shed tears, talk about their fear and helplessness and support one another through prayer.

For some, it was a time to let down their guard. Others came seeking support before trying to face their congregations Sunday.

"We are all struggling through this," said the Rev. Sam Ramdial, pastor of First General Baptist Church.

But congregations expect ministers to be a source of strength. Some pastors spoke about their own sense of grief and loss. "We have to minister to each other so that we can be strengthened," said the Rev. Bill Matzat, director of pastoral care at the hospital.

ljohnston@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 126