Lee Hoffman, 92, started Jesus Miracle Chapel 20 years ago. Hoffman doesn’t hold services because the building is not functional. However he lives right next door, so he welcomes people as they stop by and prays for them.
- Jesus Miracle Chapel in Holopaw not a functional building
- Founder blames hurricanes, other setbacks
- County commissioners approved six month extension to get in compliance
“That’s my whole life,” he said.
Hoffman sold his yacht and aluminum business in Boca Raton and used his life savings to dedicate himself to ministry full-time. He has traveled the country to evangelize in places like Egypt and the Philippines.
“I’ve preached to so many people and I laid my hand on close to 5,000 people for miracles, you see,” Hoffman said.
But with no roof and a fountain that doesn’t work, the church is far from finished. Hoffman said hurricanes among other things have set him back. The county has deemed the structure unsafe and now a bulldozer threatens this man’s dreams.
“It sure is depressing because I have built practically the whole church by myself,” Hoffman said.
This week the county delayed voting on whether the building should be demolished.
Officials are giving Hoffman a six-month extension to figure out a plan, file permits and have funding in place to bring the church into compliance.
Osceola County Commissioner Fred Hawkins decided to step in and help Hoffman with paperwork.
“I think the community wants to help him out, and again, to people who see this interview, I hope they’ll see it in their hearts and do what they can to help him out,” Hawkins explained.
About $150,000 can help get the building up to code. That money would represent a miracle Hoffman said he needs to keep spreading the word of God.
“I want everybody to have a blessing like I have, see?” Hoffman said.
Hawkins said the county is working on a setting up a donations page online. In the meantime, he encourages those who want to help with funds or donate their time to email at: FHawkinsJr@gmail.com