Hurricane Helene brought record amounts of storm surge to so many communities around Tampa Bay. St. John Vianney Catholic Church and School in St. Pete Beach were among the hardest hit, with widespread water intrusion and devastation of buildings. Many members of the parish also experienced damage to their homes.

These families and individuals gathered for church services on October 19 and 20 on the parish property for the first time since late September when Helene’s surge crashed ashore.

Over 700 church members gathered throughout last weekend during four services, also known as Masses. Parishioners will continue to gather under the tent for Mass each weekend until further notice.

Father Victor Amorose, the pastor, told the community that, “God is with us in our suffering.” He also acknowledged that it’s easy to get overwhelmed by what has happened.  But he urged the community to, “Celebrate the wins each day. Find a win each day, something that you can celebrate, big or small. Name that wins or those wins, give thanks to God for them.”