The pastor and congregation of Vian Assembly of God church hasn’t let a recent fire diminish their spirits, instead, it has ignited them to ‘still be on fire for God.’

According to reports, a cleaning crew was inside the church Thursday when an unexpected fire started, and smoke began seeping from a corner of the building.

Vian Police Chief Mark Harkins said law enforcement was able to evacuate everyone from the church and shut down Hwy. 64 prior to the fire department’s arrival.

“Preliminary reports show that the issue was in the attic and possibly electrical,” Chief Harkins said. “The damage was contained and the structure was saved. We pray Pastor John Bennett and his congregation are able to get repairs made and open back up as soon as possible.”

Pastor Bennett said the church’s sanctuary was badly damaged, the baptismal was destroyed, and all the audio/ video equipment was also destroyed.

“Most of the building from the sanctuary to the fellowship hall has been damaged,” Pastor Bennett said. “The smoke damage is horrible but the Devil is not going to hold us down. We are still on fire for God!”

Despite the fire, Pastor Bennett said services would continue even if they had to be held outdoors.

“We greatly appreciate the Vian Police Department, Vian Fire Department and all the other surrounding fire departments,” Pastor Bennett continued, “they did an amazing job. Vian Fire Chief Keith Boshers was awesome and Mayor Dennis Fletcher showed up to help, too. What an amazing blessing by these first responders in our community.”

The pastor asked that the community keep his church and congregation in prayer as they plan to rebuild and repair the damages. They have also started a Go-FundMe page, asking for monetary donations. To donate, go to the GoFundMe website and search for Vian Assembly of God Church. As of press time, the church had received a little more than $1,500 in donations.

Donations can also be made by scanning the QR code on the Church Fire Recovery Fund link on the church’s Facebook page. “If you feel led to help recover the loss, we would greatly appreciate it. The Lord will provide, and we will continue to have church, even if it’s outside,” Pastor Bennett concluded.