James River Church Responds to St. Louis Tornado With Hands-On Help for Online Campus Families

James River Church mobilized volunteers to provide on-the-ground tornado relief for affected families in St. Louis—especially Online Campus members—demonstrating its commitment to compassionate, community-focused outreach.

ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In the aftermath of the recent tornado that struck the St. Louis area, James River Church mobilized volunteers to assist families in need—many of whom are active members of the church’s Online Campus community. The tornado caused widespread property damage and power outages across parts of the St. Louis metro area, leaving many families facing unexpected cleanup and costly repairs.

On Saturday, May 24, teams from James River Church provided on-site help with tree removal and debris cleanup for affected households. The initiative was a tangible show of support for those still recovering from the storm’s impact.

James River Church, based in Springfield, Missouri, with physical campuses in Ozark and Joplin, reaches over 271,000 people weekly through its Online Campus. Many online attendees live far from a physical location but are deeply engaged in the church’s worship services, Bible teaching, and family ministries. James River Church treats its Online Campus as a fully integrated community, offering real-time engagement, dedicated pastoral care, and, as shown here, in-person support when needed.

Following the storm, church staff personally called more than 150 Online Campus families in the St. Louis region, listening to their stories, offering moral support, and checking on their safety. When several expressed immediate needs—such as blocked access to their homes and hazardous yard conditions—the church quickly mobilized resources and volunteers to provide relief.

This effort reflects James River Church’s longstanding commitment to serving and supporting communities in times of need, both locally and beyond. Whether through outreach events, emergency response, or personal acts of compassion, the church continues to live out its mission to be a source of hope and help for those facing difficult circumstances.

In addition to debris removal, volunteers spent time listening, praying, and encouraging families—many of whom were overwhelmed with gratitude. The outreach was part of the church’s ongoing mission to reflect Christ’s love through both words and deeds.

About James River Church

James River Church, serving over 16,000 attendees weekly, is a Pentecostal church with four locations in southwest Missouri and a growing online community. Known for its passionate worship and engaging children's and youth programs, JRC is dedicated to reaching people with the Gospel, global missions, and community outreach through initiatives like Cherish Kids and James River Charities.