A fire erupted at St. Andrew Missionary Baptist Church, a historical landmark in West Oakland, with investigators deeming the cause suspicious.

Suspicious Origins

The Oakland Fire Department reported that the fire, which occurred one week ago, started outside the church property before spreading to the building itself. Pastor Robert Lacey, witnessing the devastation, highlighted the extensive smoke damage within the church premises. Congregants were inside rehearsing for a service when the fire broke out. Despite attempts to contain it, the intensity forced them to evacuate.

Intense Battle Against the Blaze

Approximately 60 firefighters engaged in a challenging battle against the flames at the intersection of 27th and West streets in West Oakland. Despite their efforts, the fire caused significant damage to the historic structure.

Numbing Revelation

Expressing shock and disbelief, Pastor Lacey emphasized the community’s sense of numbness upon discovering the fire’s suspicious origins. The church, a designated landmark since 2007, holds immense historical significance. Constructed in 1910 to shelter African American Oaklanders displaced by the 1906 earthquake, it later became associated with the Black Panther movement. More recently, it served as a school, albeit encountering some controversies, before transitioning into a place of worship for a small congregation.

Restoration Efforts Amidst Adversity

Elizabeth Curry, Pastor Lacey’s mother and a longstanding member of the church, echoed the sentiment of disbelief, expressing no knowledge of anyone with motives to harm the church intentionally. Despite the setback, Pastor Lacey affirmed their commitment to restoring the church’s services and facilities, crucial for the community’s well-being. The church provides essential services such as computer labs for seniors and support programs for community members, which are temporarily disrupted due to the fire.

Conclusion: Rebuilding Community Resilience

As investigations continue into the suspicious fire at St. Andrew Missionary Baptist Church, the resilient spirit of the congregation remains unshaken. With determination, they are focused on restoring the historic landmark to its former glory, ensuring that vital community services are reinstated. As they navigate through this adversity, the support and solidarity of the community are essential for the church’s revival.

Source: KGO-TV, 2024

Source