As the Transition Team prayed and sought God’s vision for something meaningful to the entire congregation of FBC Lorena, one team member had an epiphany: the oak tree standing in the courtyard of the church could serve as a powerful symbol of what God desires for this congregation.

About twenty years ago, an ice storm split the tree completely in half. The split extended to within just two or three inches of the ground, and many people believed the tree would not survive. Three men bound the tree back together with two bands and two bolts. They then pruned it back severely, removing much of the tree so that its roots could continue to provide nourishment to what remained, all in the hope that the tree might be saved.

The tree did more than survive—it flourished. During the first year, it grew three to five feet. Today, it is difficult to tell that the tree was ever damaged. In fact, it has grown nearly twice as fast and is now twice as large as the other oak tree in the courtyard.

This oak tree provides a beautiful picture of what the Lord desires for FBC Lorena. It represents a congregation bound together in love, a body deeply rooted in Scripture and prayer, and a people willing to embrace the pruning that God uses to produce renewed life and fruitful growth.

The history of this oak tree—from its brokenness and near destruction to its present strength and beauty—reminds us that what appears to be beyond repair is never beyond God’s ability to restore. Just as the tree was bound together, nourished by its roots, and transformed through pruning, God desires to bind His people together, deepen our roots in Him, and bring forth new life and abundant fruit.

Through the story of this oak tree, God has given His people at FBC Lorena a powerful picture of His vision for the future: a congregation united in love, rooted deeply in His Word and prayer, and continually growing in strength, faith, and fruitfulness for His glory.