Youth group members in critical accident on way to Rock The Universe

"Garret has a bruised lung. That is why they kept him over night," said Pastor Don Carter.

 

A rose for Garret sat near the keyboard he plays at the Bradenton church.

 

"Katelyn has some fractures in her back," he told the group.

 

The next rose was for Sierra.

 

Saturday afternoon four vans traveling with youth group members left Bradenton heading to Orlando for Rock the Universe.

 

It was a night meant for worship and fun, but the Polk County Sheriff's Office said one of the vans carrying seven students had a catastrophic tire failure and rolled over near exit 27 or I-4.

 

"Today, we feel powerless to alter the circumstances of the past 24 hours, but with God's help we can alter our reaction to those circumstances," he said.

 

Pastor Don Carter told the congregation all seven passengers received medical attention. Four were treated overnight. He said three are expected to recover, but Sierra remains in very critical condition.

 

"During these times we are prone to ask the question why. We don't have answers to all the" why" questions. All God is asking is we continue to trust and serve him," he said.

 

A Facebook page asks for prayers for the 17 year old. A recent post from Sierra's family said doctors were working to relieve pressure from her brain.

 

"The families have felt those prayers and they are appreciative of those prayers and from them thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Please continue to pray," he said.

 

 Members joined in prayer as many held hands and cried. They all bowed their head and hoped their prayers would be answered.