By Baptist Message staff EUNICE, La. (LBM) – Four Louisiana Baptist encampments have opened their facilities to Hurricane Ida evacuees and first responders. James Newsom, director of Acadian Baptist Center in Eunice, told the Baptist Message 120 linemen and 70 members of First Baptist Church, Golden Meadow, and their families are residing at the camp. Newsom said the camp is providing rooms, meals and household items, and added that area pastors have visited the camp to pray with the evacuees. “It’s really sad knowing the heartache and devastation they are going through,” Newsom said. “Pray that God would use this hurricane to bring people into the Kingdom and that He would send people to come help the church and families rebuild.” Matthew Chouest, FBCGM pastor, said he is grateful for the ABC, which regularly hosts members from his congregation at annual summer camps and men’s retreats, and Louisiana Baptist Disaster Relief, which already is giving assistance. He also told Baptist Message that already individuals and congregations from around the country have expressed interest in donating funds and supplies and coming to help rebuild as well as minister to the community. Chouest, who returned to his church … [Read more...]