A church in Florida sheltering mostly elderly congregants from Hurricane Ian has continued its services, despite suffering substantial damage.

The pastors at the Southwest Baptist church in Fort Myers were determined to hold a service of prayer for the damaged city.

Despite the wreckage that continues to lie around them, including overturned cars, a toppled steeple and soaked bibles, seniors gathered on the porch of the church. 

According to USA Today, the service was an important moment for shocked victims to gather in community in the wake of the disaster.

Leaders in the church had urged congregants to evacuate the area ahead of the storm, but many said they would rather gather in the church, with many still sleeping in make-shift beds in the chapel. 

The church is on higher land than many of the surrounding houses, so many believed the building would be safe from the floods. 

The place of worship now bares holes in the roof, and will need to have its walls and carpets replaced. 

They had only recently installed new lighting and sound systems. 

During the Sunday service, those gathered were encouraged to lean on their faith. 

"It's a thanksgiving that we're here," Jane Compton, 77, told the news outlet. "We're so fortunate."