CONGREGATION HOLDS SERVICE AFTER TRAGIC FIRE

(02/26/2007)
A fire destroyed their church Thursday night in Roane County, but it didn't wipe away their faith.

The Independent People's Baptist Church members say their faith in God is stronger than ever, holding a service yesterday at the Roane County Committee on Aging in Spencer.

Pastor Darrin Cale said they may be rejoicing in a different location, but there's no change in the message.

Cale has pastored the church for three years, saying it has been really blessed with one of the larger rural congregations in the county.

Cale, saddened by the loss, told the Herald, "He's still a great God, and he has been good to us... we'll move in some direction with His help."

Where the service will be held next Sunday is to be determined.

The structure was in flames when the Spencer-Roane Volunteer Fire Department quickly arrived on scene, many of the firemen were at the station for training night.

The Clover and Gandeeville VFDs also responded.

See   Country Church Burns In Roane