Church continues fire hall worship
A month after fire destroyed their building, members of Grace Baptist Church in Rowes Run continue to worship together at the Grindstone Volunteer Fire Department Social Hall. “They’re been real good to us. We appreciate their help,” the Rev. Lonnie Lewis, pastor of Grace Baptist, said about the fire department.
Fire of undetermined origin destroyed the church building during the night on Friday, Sept. 11. The fire department received the call at 3 a.m. when flames had engulfed the building.
The fire department immediately offered its social hall to the church, which has about 30 members. Lewis said the church will remain holding worship services at the social hall at 10:45 a.m. Sundays until further notice.
In fact, the church will host a revival Sunday at the social hall with the Rev. Mitch Wall of Mitch Wall Ministries of Fayette City. The revival includes 10:45 a.m. worship and a 6 p.m. concert.
“We had planned this before the fire and decided to go ahead and do it,” said Lewis.
In addition, the church comes together Wednesday nights for prayer meetings in members’ homes.
Meanwhile, the congregation is still deciding about a new building.
“We’re still debating whether to build there or somewhere else or buy an existing building,” said Lewis. “We’re not sure where to go. We’re just seeking the Lord’s will.”
Lewis, who has been pastor for four and a half years, said Grace Baptist has received some offers for pieces for a new church but has no place to store them. The church has also received monetary donations.
In the meantime, Lewis said of the congregation, “We’re trying to stay united and overcome this together.”