Rapid Response Team Deploys to Historic Kentucky Floods

By   •   March 10, 2021

group praying
A Billy Graham Rapid Response Team chaplain prays with Kentucky residents in front of the Mobile Ministry Center.

A team of crisis-trained chaplains from the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) is ministering in Breathitt County, Kentucky, after the worst flooding the region has experienced in decades.

Heavy rainfall at the beginning of the month caused the Kentucky River to overflow, submerging many communities in the eastern part of the state underwater. While waters have since receded, widespread damage to roads, homes and other infrastructure has left residents reeling.

“It has been a tough year,” said Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear after touring the region. “What I saw was the worst flash-flooding that I’ve seen in my lifetime.”

Last month, winter storms left tens of thousands across the state without power. Residents were just starting to clear away downed trees and repair electric lines when the floods hit. Longtime Kentucky residents told local news reporters that they’ve never experienced flooding like this before.

“Many homes were flooded, and the need is great for both Samaritan’s Purse and Billy Graham Rapid Response Team chaplains to offer help and support,” said Jack Munday, director of the BG-RRT. “Both ministries, along with equipment, will be there beginning Thursday to offer hope and comfort to many families who have been impacted by the floods.”

Join us in praying that God comforts this community as our chaplains offer emotional and spiritual support.

Read stories of God working through other Rapid Response Team deployments.