Stories From The Storm – Pastor Rogers, an HKGC Client

Pastor Rogers

Pastor Barbara Rogers wasn’t running a mega-church in New Orleans on Franklin Avenue. One Way Deliverance was a “small ministry that did big things in the community.” The church focused their efforts on helping those in need where disparities were prevalent in the community. The church started a food bank that fed 500 people in need per month. It had programs for the elderly, literacy classes and shelter for the homeless. The church was 125 parishioners strong.

One Way Deliverance

Everything changed on Saturday, August 27, 2005. After “feeling it in her spirit,” Pastor Rogers asked the church secretary to call the 125 parishioners, telling them to pack one bag and meet at the church Sunday morning. The flock was praying that morning, but this Sunday was different. Thirty-six families showed up and were loaded into the church van and any other vehicles that were on hand. Six hours later, they were in Baton Rouge crammed in like sardines into a vacant house and her sister’s house, but she had managed to get the families out of harms way.

Interior of the Gymnasium

After the storm, Pastor Rogers found that negotiating through the legalities was a blur. Brian Katz of Herman, Katz, Gisleson & Cain was a blessing. He helped negotiate through all the legal jargon and unnecessary red tape that came along with insurance claims. Rebuilding hasn’t been easy, but Pastor Rogers has found a home in Baton Rouge, closer to family. She purchased a new facility in November 2014 and has started a new ministry. Through her strong will and spirit, she continues to rebuild her community.