JEFF TURNER
(Photo courtesy Woodycrest United Methodist Church)
Two fires that occurred this fall at United Methodist churches in Centre County, Pennsylvania, were set deliberately, according to a U.S. federal agency. On Friday, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), part of the U.S. Justice Department, confirmed that both incidents are being investigated as acts of arson. The agency is collaborating with police in Patton Township and Pennsylvania State Police on the investigation.
Details about the fires remain limited due to the ongoing inquiry, and Patton Township Police have not provide a statement..
The first fire happened at Woodycrest United Methodist Church in Patton Township, Pennsylvania. The fire, which broke out on September 14, caused serious damage to the sanctuary. The building was heavily affected by fire, smoke, and water damage, leading to its closure. A firefighter from Alpha Fire Co. received minor injuries to his hand and was treated at a local hospital. No one was inside the church when the fire began. Woodycrest, which was constructed in 1936 and has about 50 members, is now seeking donations to aid in the rebuilding process.
Pastor Renee Ford emphasized on the church’s website that despite the destruction of the physical building, the community remains strong. “We always say the church is not a building; the church is the people,” Ford stated, highlighting that the congregation’s work will continue despite the loss.
The second incident occurred in October at the former Fillmore United Methodist Church. The building, which had not been used as a church for several years and was functioning as a recreation centre, suffered a partial roof collapse. Investigators suspect arson since the fire seemed to have started outside the building. There were no injuries, and the building was empty at the time of the fire.
Authorities have not confirmed if the two fires are related.
Woodycrest United Methodist Church has established a Church Restoration Fund to collect financial contributions. The donations will go towards expenses not covered by insurance during the rebuilding process. The church is also requesting prayers and seeking volunteers to help with recovery efforts. Specific needs for volunteers will be updated on the church’s website as the restoration progresses.
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