SBC president calls for Union offering

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP) — Frank Page, president of the Southern Baptist Convention, asked Southern Baptists to support Union University with their prayers and a rare special offering after the Baptist-affiliated school suffered extensive damage from the Feb. 5 tornado.

“The vast amount of damage – perhaps as much as $50 million – leaves the institution in a desperate situation immediately,” Page said in a statement immediately after touring the campus. “I am calling on Southern Baptists to prayerfully consider giving a love offering to this dear institution.”’

On one of the next several Sundays, Page said, “I pray that we would give sacrificially and lovingly to a part of our family ... which needs our assistance.”

Most of Union’s student housing buildings were destroyed or severely damaged, and at least 17 buildings on campus were damaged, including the library. Although the university was insured, Page said it may take months or even a year before an insurance settlement is complete. In the meantime, Page called on Southern Baptists “to understand the gravity of what has occurred at Union University.”

Donations through mail, online

Donations can be sent to “Union University Disaster Relief Fund” at 1050 Union University Drive, Jackson, TN 38305. The university also is suggesting that those who want to help students consider providing gift cards that can be used in stores like Wal-Mart, Target, Lowe’s, or Home Depot.

Individuals desiring to donate online can visit www.uu.edu and click on the “Disaster Relief Fund” button on the top right of the page. Gifts are needed immediately to help students replace textbooks, purchase furniture items and clothing lost in the storm, and buy groceries and personal hygiene items.