The North Miami Church that was destroyed in a fire last week may not have insurance to help members rebuild, but it does have dozens of helping hands ready and willing to put the place of worship back together, brick by brick.
Surveying the damage the July 4 fire left behind, the church’s Pastor, James Pasteurin, said,"19 years of work going down in a couple hours.”
Buried in the rubble and debris are memories of a place that has served as a second home for about 150 congregants for nearly two decades.
About 60 firefighters battled the heavy smoke and flames at The Eglise Evangelique Des Pelerins, or Pilgrim Evangelical Church on NW 13th Avenue and 119th Street. Neighbors believe kids setting off fireworks sparked the flames.
As the investigation continues, the work for congregants is only beginning.
In spite of the tragedy, the pastor says not having Sunday services is simply not an option.
"They come to me and say pastor, 'whether we stand in the sun we'll worship The Lord.' And I'm with them," said Pasteurin.
Local
On Saturday dozens worked to clean up the field in a parking lot across the street where a temporary church will be set up. A tent will shield churchgoers from the heat. They will sit in 150 chairs and look up at a podium, all donated from area churches. Kind strangers even donated a big ticket item - an organ.
There's no building to put it in yet, but churchgoers are optimistic to rebuild.
The church is now relying on donations of materials, money, and services. It has been receiving a lot of support from the Spanish-speaking community.
"Even though I don't speak Spanish The Lord helps me communicate so that we can receive donations from the Hispanic community,” said Phillipe Pasteurin.
Members know there is a long road ahead. That is why the message of Sunday’s sermon is faith.
"God give and God takes away. We're not going to let anything take away from praising The Lord," said the Pastor.
