INDIANAPOLIS -- Five years after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, some Indianapolis transplants are remembering that time, but also celebrating the new community they've created.

The Rev. Ernest Porter fled New Orleans after flooding destroyed his home and church.

Video: Indy Katrina Survivors Remember 5 Years Later

His first stop in Indianapolis was a makeshift shelter at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, where he arrived with only his vehicle and two pairs of pants.

Porter quickly found a new home, becoming the pastor at Greater Galilee IMB Church, but said he often thinks about his former home and the turbulent times following the storm.

"I am definitely disappointed with the response the citizens got from the government," he said. "I would be lying if I did not have hard feelings, but I wouldn't be a Christian if I didn't say I could forgive."

Porter's church has become a community for others who left New Orleans after Katrina. Members gathered Friday night, as they have every year, to remember the victims and survivors of the disaster.

"We need to reach out to our brothers and sisters, which we continue to do, and have hope for the future," said Annette Williams.

As for Porter, he said he's at peace with his pulpit and his life in Indianapolis.

"This is home now. With all the snow, I've learned to adjust," he said. "This is home now."