Arkansas church to rebuild with community support after fire
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — An Arkansas church family continues to persevere despite losing their church in a fire.
This church has been a pillar in the community for 160 years. Although the structure may be damaged, that doesn't compare to the love shown by those near and far.
ORIGINAL STORY: Possible lightning strike causes fire at Arkansas church
It's a long road to recovery, but as Easter Sunday approaches, Bishop Kenneth Taylor of Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church says they're thankful for those who've extended a helping hand.
'We are people of grace. And this is the evidence of grace yet being upon us,' said Taylor.
Bishop Taylor watched his church burn down following the latest round of storms that swept through Marion, Arkansas, and surrounding areas just weeks ago.
'The fire chief came up to my car, and he apologized to me. He said there's low water pressure in the city. It's not going to be enough water to save the church. And he told me that about five times because he was extremely apologetic. You know, some of us look like you guys are just doing your best, he said. But it's not good enough,' said Taylor.
Several local churches opened their doors to allow Taylor and Pleasant Grove Church members to worship after the loss.
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'This coming Sunday is Resurrection Sunday. Easter Sunday. We are going to be in Dominion Worldwide, which is right down the street here,' Taylor said.
Phase by phase, they're working to rebuild, but it's going to take time.
'But the community, the community, it has been mind-blowing. I have actually been able to see the heart of God in a way that I've never witnessed it in 51 years,' said Taylor. 'You have to think about some of these people who were born here. I only pastored this church for 16 years. And so, there's a lot of history, a lot of legacy that is in this place.'
There is no timeline as to when the church will be rebuilt.
However, as the 160th anniversary approaches in September, Taylor says they plan to celebrate the community in an amazing way.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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