Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

In the aftermath of the historic 2021 tornado that ravaged western Kentucky, Resurrection Catholic Church in Dawson Springs has been rebuilt and dedicated. The dedication ceremony took place on August 17, nearly three years after the devastating storm.

Bishop William F. Medley of Owensboro, who had been asked about the church's future shortly after the tornado, remarked, “It’s called Resurrection. Of course it will be rebuilt.” His words have now come to fruition as the small Catholic community gathered in their new church.

Reflecting on his visit to the site a few days after the December 10 storms, Bishop Medley recalled seeing the sanctuary candle exposed to the elements after the tornado tore off parts of the church. Despite this destruction, he noted that "the tabernacle and Blessed Sacrament had been preserved and were recovered."

The dedication day was marked by a warm welcome from volunteers and parishioners who brought finger foods to share after Mass. Children who were much younger during the storm participated in serving at the altar.

Several clergy members attended the event, including previous pastors Father Frank Roof and Father Bruce Fogle, as well as Father David Kennedy, who guided Resurrection through its rebuilding process. Also present was Father Carl McCarthy from Precious Blood in Owensboro, whose parish supported Resurrection after the tornado.

Jeff Smith, a parishioner and lector at the dedication Mass, highlighted community efforts: “We had a great contractor from a good Catholic family, who stayed with us the whole way.” He credited Donnie and Rhonda Mills for offering their backyard shed for Masses immediately following the tornado until now.

Rhonda Mills described ending this period as bittersweet: “It’s exciting (but) it’s going to be different,” she said. She recounted emotional moments during their last Mass in the shed before returning to Resurrection.

The new church features familiar elements such as a statue of Our Lady holding Jesus that survived the tornado. Deacon Mike Marsili mentioned plans for installing stained-glass windows donated by parishioners. A prominent window depicting the Resurrection will be added soon.

Deacon Marsili expressed gratitude for community support: “So many people in the community have been so supportive and excited for us.” An open house is planned to thank Dawson Springs residents for their support over recent years.

Despite remembering past hardships and losses, August 17 was seen as a day of renewal. Upcoming events like first Communions and baptisms will take place in their new church home. “There’s definitely a palpable sense that we’ve turned a corner,” said Deacon Marsili.