FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
UPDATED 11:10 a.m. (EDT):
Spencerville Church will hold Sabbath worship services on Saturday, August 10, at 11:30 a.m. in the auditorium of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, located at 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904.
Unfortunately, the fire damage to the Spencerville Church sanctuary is extensive. The organ has been severely damaged (pictures below), with virtually no pipes remaining in the front or rear of the sanctuary. The piano was also significantly damaged, and the technical systems for audio and video in the sanctuary booth area were destroyed. The fire damaged the roof and ceiling planks, with holes cut to allow the fire department access that they could not achieve from within the building.
Chad Stuart, Spencerville Church senior pastor said: “We mourn the loss of the house where the Spencerville family has worshipped our Savior, Jesus Christ for nearly 45 years. But we do not mourn without hope because we know that worship of Jesus is not limited to a building and that the church is not a place, but it is the collective people of God coming together—believing that out of ashes Jesus gives life and revival. Thank you for your prayers, and join us in stepping forward in our grief as we trust in the new thing God will do that we cannot yet see!”
Jerry Lutz, president of the Chesapeake Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, said: “We are heartbroken by this devastating loss but have the assurance that the Lord will lead His people through this difficult time. He will provide, as He always does for His Church.”
See the previously released statement below:
Silver Spring, Maryland – In the early hours of August 9, shortly after 1:00 a.m. ET, a fire broke out at Spencerville Church, causing significant damage to the building, including the sanctuary. Thankfully, the building was vacant at the time, and no injuries were reported.
The Montgomery County Fire Department responded promptly to the scene and continues to manage the situation. Preliminary findings suggest that the cause of the fire was electrical in nature and originated in the audio-visual booth.
We will provide further updates as the situation develops. Later today, we will make an announcement regarding the Sabbath worship service for August 10.
In moments like these, we are reminded that the church is not just a structure but a community of believers united in faith. While deeply saddened by the damage, we find solace in knowing everything is ultimately in God’s hands. We trust in His plan and pray that through this challenge, His name will be glorified.
Download this press release in PDF format (141kb)
Media Contact:
Crystal Ward
Executive Pastor
301-384-2920 x 129
cward@spencervillechurch.org