(Jan. 2, 2007) — Black River Church of the Brethren in Spencer, Ohio, burned to the ground late on the night of Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, 2006. The fire broke out some time after the congregation\u2019s Christmas Eve service was over, but preliminary reports suggest that the fire was not related to the candlelight service.<\/p>\n
\u201cPlease keep pastor Mark Teal and the congregation in your prayers as they faithfully look to the future,\u201d said John Ballinger, executive minister of Northern Ohio District. The district reported that the Black River congregation celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2005. In 2001, the church completed repairs after a tornado caused roof and water damage.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is literally burned to the ground,\u201d Ballinger said of the church building. However, the congregation of about 80 on a Sunday morning is \u201ca vibrant, very healthy congregation,\u201d he said. \u201cThey have a very good spirit about them. They are going to recover.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ballinger said church members are \u201cthinking it was an electrical fire\u201d not caused by the candle lighting. \u201cSeveral people went through the church after the service and checked that everything was out,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
An e-mail communication from the district office responded to those who have asked how they can help the Black River congregation. Pastor Teal has told the district that volunteers for clean up will not be needed until after the investigation of the fire is complete. Until then, monetary donations of love offerings are being received at First Merit Bank, to be made out to the \u201cBlack River Church of the Brethren Rebuilding Fund.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThank you for continuing in prayer for the Black River congregation,\u201d the district said.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n