Oklahoma church damaged in suspicious fire

Oklahoma church damaged in suspicious fire

by | 31 Oct 2015
Oklahoma District photo

Midwest City Community Church of the Nazarene in Midwest City, Oklahoma, was damaged by fire Friday. No one was injured.

Firefighters from three area departments responded to a call from a passing motorist around 2 a.m. Friday. The educational wing of the church was heavily damaged, including the classrooms and smaller sanctuary where children's services are held. The main sanctuary sustained only smoke damage, which senior pastor Nate Cook describes as a miracle.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. Graffiti found spray-painted on church walls raised suspicions of arson, and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms is investigating it as a possible crime scene.

The congregation will continue to meet for worship in the church’s Family Life Center during the rebuilding process. Church members and volunteers spent Saturday evening after the fire cleaning and reconfiguring the gymnasium for services Sunday, using equipment on loan from area supporters. Sunday’s service focused on the theme Beauty from Ashes, and the congregation colored glass from the shattered doors to create a mosaic of the church’s logo.

Oklahoma District photo

"We are thankful that no one was injured in this incident, and we know that we serve a God who brings beauty from ashes," leader's wrote on the church's Facebook page. "We also know that buildings are not what make up the church, but the people of God."

Prayer is requested for Midwest City Community's congregation as they move forward.  The church is currently working with the insurance company to determine the next steps. Rebuilding efforts are estimated to take at least six months.

For a video from KFOR, click here

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