Christian Church(Disciples of Christ)
Christian Church
(Disciples of Christ)
INDIANAPOLIS (DNS) -- A June 24 fire that damaged a Greenville, Texas, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) congregation has been ruled accidental. An overloaded extension cord was responsible for the early evening fire at Clark Street Christian Church, according to Fire Marshal Greg McDonald. The 250-member congregation is predominantly African American. The blaze began when an electrical extension cord short-circuited because it was attached to too many devices, said fire officials. The electrical overload apparently taxed the cord's capacity to handle the current. Damage to the facility was limited to a building annex which served as classroom, kitchen and dining space. The sanctuary was unharmed, according to the Rev. W.D. Hines, pastor. Most of the fire's aftermath was limited to smoke and heat damage at one end of the wooden structure. Firefighters and church members were able to salvage food, serving trays, utensils and other items. Despite the fire's accidental origins, federal investigators were called to the scene, said McDonald. Representatives of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and Greenville-area authorities initially surveyed the location. Samples from the area later tested negative for the presence of an incendiary device or substance. The blaze occurred "at a very inopportune time, to say the least," said McDonald. Church members rejoiced to know that the blaze was not deliberately set. "We're just glad that no one set the fire," said Hines. "That we're relieved to know." Two other black churches in Greenville were burned June 9 and 10. And, coincidentally, a peaceful multi-racial march through the community June 22 began from the steps of Clark Street Christian Church. Both local and federal authorities, along with people from the church, agree that this was just an accident, said the fire marshal. The denomination's Week of Compassion program will make a grant from its response fund to the Clark Street Church "as an expression of the concern and solidarity of Disciples from across North America for the congregation," said the Rev. Johnny Wray, director.
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