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Update from Rev. Ray Miles on Saturday -
6/4/11
I wanted to give you an update
related to situations at First Christian Church in
Sandersville. I was there Friday and found the situation under
control of the leadership of the congregation. They are shaken
but not destroyed…. Dismayed but not defeated. Their reaction
truly indicates the church is the people who make up the body of
Christ not the buildings.
Several have asked what can be
done by congregations in this Region. It is early to really
know what can be done or what will be done. If your
congregation wants to respond I would say either a gift from
congregation to congregation, or a note expressing solidarity
with the congregation would be appropriate.
I will worship with the
Sandersville congregation on Sunday morning and share the
concern and compassion felt by the sister congregations of the
Region.
In spite of the courage they have
shown and displayed, we know there will be grief at the loss of
memories and things which held historical values. We also know
that many memories are connected to the facility which has been
destroyed. Weddings, funerals, baptisms and child dedications
all took place there. It was the site of numerous children’s
programs and faith development for numerous people. Our prayers
are extended for all those who feel loss in their lives over
this event.
Below is the statement issued
Friday night by the pastor of FCC Sandersville Dale Andrews:
The sanctuary of First
Christian Church of Sandersville caught fire today before noon.
Fire departments from here and two or three other counties
fought it. Two firefighters were airlifted to (probably Augusta)
with smoke inhalation problems.
There will be a brief devotional Saturday morning in the
prayer garden at 10:00 AM.
We will still have our outdoor worship services this Sunday
as scheduled 10:30 Sunday morning. Church members: bring twice
as much food. We have asked the fire department to join us in
worship and give us a chance to thank them for saving as much as
they could. It looks like the stained glass windows survived.
The education wing and social hall are undamaged. We will
continue congregational life as normal from there.
Many churches have offered their buildings for us to use.
This is a truly amazing place!!!!
Channel 13 covered it. Check the news later tonight.
Please do not go anywhere near the sanctuary...in that it
could yet collapse.
I will keep you posted as I can. A lot of very brave
firefighters worked today. The heat was terrible. So many have
expressed prayers and support...
We grieve. We praise God. We continue. |
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