Fire Causes Severe Damage to Spencerville Church

Story by Spencerville Church Staff / Photo by Erwin Nanasi

Spencerville Church will hold Sabbath worship services on Saturday, August 10, at 11:30 a.m. in the auditorium of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, located at 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904. 

The fire damage to the Spencerville Church sanctuary is extensive. The organ has been severely damaged, with virtually no pipes remaining in the front or rear of the sanctuary. The piano was also significantly damaged, and the technical systems for audio and sanctuary video in the audio booth area were destroyed. The roof and ceiling planks were damaged by the fire, with holes cut to allow the fire department access that they could not achieve from within the building.

Chad Stuart, Spencerville Church senior pastor said: “We mourn the loss of the house where the Spencerville family has worshipped our Savior, Jesus Christ for nearly 45 years. But we do not mourn without hope, because we know that worship of Jesus is not limited to a building and that the church is not a place, but it is the collective people of God coming together—believing that out of ashes Jesus gives life and revival. Thank you for your prayers and join us in stepping forward in our grief as we trust in the new thing God will do that we cannot yet see!”

Jerry Lutz, president of the Chesapeake Conference of Seventh-day Adventists said: “We are heartbroken by this devastating loss, but have the assurance that the Lord will lead His people through this difficult time. He will provide, as He always does for His Church.”

See the previously released statement below:

Silver Spring, Maryland – In the early hours of August 9, shortly after 1:00 a.m. ET, a fire broke out at Spencerville Church, causing significant damage to the building, including the sanctuary. Thankfully, the building was vacant at the time, and no injuries have been reported.

The Montgomery County Fire Department responded promptly to the scene and continues to manage the situation. Preliminary findings suggest that the fire was electrical in nature, originating in the audio-visual booth.

As the situation develops, we will provide further updates. An announcement regarding the Sabbath worship service on August 10 will be made later today.

In moments like these, we are reminded that the church is not just a structure, but a community of believers united in faith. While we are deeply saddened by the damage, we find solace in knowing that everything is ultimately in God's hands. We trust in His plan and pray that through this challenge, His name will be glorified.

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