An online fundraiser is supporting the recovery efforts of a Centre Region church that saw its sanctuary destroyed and other parts of the building damaged in a fire last weekend.
A GoFundMe has been established to help Woodycrest United Methodist Church in Patton Township with rebuilding expenses that are not covered by insurance. Donations can also be made via PayPal or by mail to 219 W. Clearview Ave., State College, PA 16803.
Funds raised will help with help with replacing church contents such as equipment, furniture and historical documents; covering operating costs and temporary worship space; paying the $2,500 insurance deductible; and any unforeseen costs that may arise that extend beyond insurance coverage, Pastor Renee Ford wrote in a press release.
“The church is deeply grateful for the community’s prayers and support as we begin the process of rebuilding,” Ford wrote. “Any contributions of time, talent or treasure will help us recover and continue our mission in the community.”
Alpha Fire Company responded at about 12:20 a.m. on Saturday for a “well-involved fire” in the roof, and while they battled the blaze the building partially collapsed.
Assisted by three other fire companies, the fire was controlled within 40 minutes, but the damage was extensive. No one was inside at the time, though a firefighter was taken by Centre LifeLink EMS to the hospital to be treated for minor injuries.
The investigation is ongoing and a cause has yet to be determined, Ford wrote.
Woodycrest UMC is working with a local restoration company to begin the cleanup and recovery effort.
“Initial work includes clearing the building of damaged contents and determining the structural needs for a rebuild,” Ford wrote. “While much of the sanctuary will need to be fully reconstructed, the upstairs of the newer section will be restored and the basement of the newer section will be restored and renovated.”
Even without its building for now, the congregation is persevering. As it did last weekend, the church will hold this Sunday’s worship service in the parking lot at 10 a.m.
Community members are invited to join, and anyone who would like to help set up for the service should arrive at 9 a.m.
“Despite this heartbreaking situation, our faith remains strong, and we are determined to rebuild and restore our place of worship,” the church wrote in the GoFundMe description.
For updates on the recovery from the fire, visit woodycrest-umc.org and the church’s Facebook group.
