Last Friday, Fellowship Alliance Chapel in Medford, New Jersey, was lit ablaze during a severe thunderstorm. The culprit is suspected to be a lightning strike that sparked the flames and heavy smoke on the church's roof.
Though no one was inside the church at the time and fire crews and emergency responders from multiple departments responded quickly and effectively to gain control of the fire, the church posted on Facebook Saturday evening that the worship center would be closed.
The next day, the congregation met together for an emotional worship service in the fellowship center next door.
While talking with CBS News in Philadelphia, churchgoers shared how much it meant to still be able to gather together.
"Words can't explain the emotions right now that we're here still holding church today," said Dave Gutekunst, chairman of the church's elder board. "The enemy had plans to stop our worship of our Lord and Savior this morning, but praise God, we are here."
Paul Casdia, a member of the church, called it "a small miracle."
"It seemed so unlikely we would have church this morning," he said. "It was emotional."
"It's just a testament to how awesome God is," Jeanine Casdia added.
The flames did not make it inside, but there is extensive smoke and water damage. As the church begins an extensive cleanup process, Gutekunsk praised God for having a plan.
"God's still got a plan," he said. "All of God's plan is good, and we have to trust in his plan."
Fellowship Alliance Chapel is an evangelical Christian and Missionary Alliance church that describes itself as a congregation of more than 1,200 people in the suburban South Jersey community known for its small-town character, strong family appeal, and deep ties to the region's agricultural and Pine Barrens heritage.
