Providence Baptist Church’s new building in Williamstown, Missouri, is under construction, after its previous building was destroyed in a fire, Jan. 4.
A 10,800-square-foot, single level facility on a concrete slab was expected to be nearly framed and shingled by early June, pastor James Leezer had said.
The new facility is located on Route E in Lewis County, near where the church parsonage was also destroyed in the Jan. 4 fire, and a quarter mile south of the older structure location.
“We debated whether to go with a smaller building for our immediate needs or whether to build for growth,” said Leezer, adding the latter was chosen.
Looking ahead
The new facility will have vaulted ceilings, classrooms adjacent to the sanctuary, an office, a kitchen/auditorium, and showers to be available for local disaster needs.
“We want to be a hub of support for northeast Missouri,” Leezer said.
After a volunteer group opted for another project, MK (Michael and Keith) Phillips of Luray and owners of the Kahoka Lumber were paid to build the structure. Al Groner, Bethel Baptist Director of Missions, is serving as a contact for volunteers and general contractor.
Leezer said the Phillips donated the framing and offered the other materials at cost.
At present, the parsonage will not be rebuilt.
Prayer of dedication
A prayer of dedication was held, June 2, and another dedication service will be held at a time to be announced before the church occupies the building. Leezer said it’s possible the church could be used in October.
A number of local churches took up collections, and a donation was made by the Mt.Salem/Wyaconda Southern Baptist Association to help cover some costs to rebuild the church.
Police continue to investigate the cause of the fire. No arrests have been made.
The church has temporarily been meeting in the Williamstown fire station.
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written by Dan Steinbeck and originally published by the Pathway.
