Nine months after Hurricane Helene devastated parts of western North Carolina, the Episcopal Diocese continues recovery efforts. On September 28, 2024, torrential rains flooded Asheville and surrounding areas, damaging 23 churches, including the Cathedral of All Souls, which remains uninhabitable. Bishop José A. McLoughlin announced that over $440,000 has been disbursed to support emergency needs and community recovery. Damages across churches and conference centers total in the millions. The diocese launched a disaster relief section on its website to coordinate donations, track rebuilding progress, and share updates with the wider Episcopal community and public.
Churches Serve as Relief Hubs Despite Severe Damage
The Church of the Transfiguration in Bat Cave suffered flooding and widespread tree damage. Rev. John Roberts reported that one-third of the congregation left the area, and 12 families lost everything. Most have not received insurance payouts, and FEMA aid remains inconsistent. Despite lacking power and water, the church became a refuge, offering shelter, bathrooms, and eventually meals and supplies. Amish volunteers helped mill lumber and rebuild sheds, turning the church into a center of resilience and hope. Community members now rely on the church for daily meals, household items, and a place to connect during recovery.
Cathedral of All Souls Faces Long-Term Restoration
The historic Cathedral of All Souls in Asheville was inundated by floodwaters that filled its parish hall to the roof. Dean Sarah Hurlbert described the cleanup as slow and complicated due to the building’s historic status. Moisture removal, architectural planning, and backlog issues have delayed restoration. Complete repairs are not expected until late 2026. Meanwhile, the congregation worships at St. George’s Episcopal Church, drawing new members from the surrounding neighborhood. Restoration plans include expanding ministry capacity with a new kitchen and classrooms to serve the community better.
Diocese Prioritizes Local Labor and Economic Recovery
Rather than relying on volunteers, the diocese is hiring local contractors to rebuild, thereby supporting the economies of 26 hurricane-affected counties. Rev. Kelsey Davis emphasized the importance of donations, including mobile homes, vehicles, and financial contributions. A new online disaster response hub provides information and virtual volunteer options. Leaders urge supporters to visit the region, spend locally, and share messages of support on social media. Local tourism, particularly to the Biltmore Estate and nearby businesses, is a vital source of funding for long-term recovery and economic revitalization.
Recovery Highlighting Church’s Broader Role in the Community
The church’s commitment to inclusive relief has drawn new congregants unfamiliar with the Episcopal tradition. Leaders hope this spirit of service will leave a lasting legacy. While some criticize the slow pace of recovery, many support the diocese’s sustainable, dignity-centered approach. The experience has revealed both the vulnerability and resilience of the region’s faith communities. For many, the hurricane transformed their understanding of church, not just as a place of worship, but as a lifeline.
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