One month after fire swept through the sanctuary of Vian Assembly of God, the church is rising from the ashes, determined to rebuild and continue its mission.

Pastor John Bennett said he was out of town when he received a call from church secretary Linda Isham that the church was on fire. A cleaning crew had been inside when smoke began leaking from a corner of the building. Vian Police Chief Mark Harkins spotted the smoke and quickly alerted the fire department, whose fast response saved the structure from total loss.

“The fire started in the attic, most likely from an electrical issue,” Bennett said. “But stopped right before our new sanctuary, a miracle from God.”

Although the building was filled with smoke, air purifiers and cleanup efforts allowed the congregation to return and continue worship.

“We’re not going to let this drag us down,” Bennett said. “We’re going to keep doing the Lord’s work.”

The damage is estimated at $400,000. Before repairs can begin, the church must raise a $10,000 insurance deduct-ible and wait for contractor approval. Once underway, restoration is expected to take about 90 days.

The church has received an outpouring of support from the community and beyond. Pastors from Tulsa, Oklahoma City and Sallisaw have contributed funds and equipment. Bennett said one local man, Jason Elbon, surprised the church with a generous donation, and even a 5-yearold named Asher gave 35 cents.

Bennett said they also wish to thank Thomas Hanning, the pastor of Blackgum Har- vestime church, who helped financially, as well as Christ the King church, who offered the use of their church building for service and worship.

“It’s not about equal giving but equal sacrifice,” Bennett said “That’s what the Lord honors.”

A GoFundMe page has been launched to help with rebuilding efforts: https://gofund. me/b549ec2c