North Beaver Baptist Church’s Rick Miller sees the congregation he pastors as looking to the future.
On July 29, Miller was awakened by a phone call notifying him that the church building was burning. With evidence of a door being kicked in and fires set in five places, Miller said members are focused on serving God in the coming months.
“We’ve got a big God, and we’re excited to see what He can do,” Miller said.
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Contributed photo A fire July 29 left North Beaver Baptist Church members scrambling for a place to meet. Christian neighbors have shared space with them while they figure out the next step. |
The West Jefferson congregation lost its sanctuary and education building, which included classrooms, offices, library, nursery and a fellowship hall.
The thieves also stole money from the fund where children give money to help a variety of ministries.
The church, which averages 75 on Sundays, met in a funeral home with little interruption to its schedule and has begun gathering at nearby Bald Mountain Baptist Church. A ladies exercise class has also been moved, and Wednesday night services have been held at a local fire department.
Three families in the church had firefighters who fought the blaze. So far, the only event that has been postponed is Thunder Sunday, a special service with motorcyclists.
The local police department said there is a suspect but no other information has been released in the investigation.
Contributions can be sent to Rebuild North Beaver, c/o Jessica Yearick, 278 Country Mtn. Lane, West Jefferson, NC 28694. Call Miller at (336) 649-0395.
Visit northbeaver.org or the church’s Facebook page.