A devastating fire ravaged the historic First Baptist Dallas Church on Friday night, leaving the 133-year-old sanctuary in ruins. The blaze, which caused the roof to collapse, sent smoke billowing over the city and drew a massive response from firefighters. Despite the destruction, church officials are grateful that the fire occurred after a summer Bible school event, sparing the lives of 2,000 children.
The loss is deeply felt by the church community, with many members mourning the destruction of a landmark where generations have been baptized, married, and memorialized. The sanctuary, with its dark wood pews and ornate carvings, held a special place in the hearts of congregants. “A lot of history in that building,” said Rita Smith, a church member who visited the site on Saturday.
As investigators work to determine the cause of the fire, church officials are left to ponder the future of the sanctuary. “We will have to see about whether we try to recreate it or do something else,” said Rev. Robert Jeffress, the church’s pastor. For now, the church will hold Sunday worship services at the nearby Dallas Convention Center. The fire has sent shockwaves through the community, with many comparing it to the 2019 blaze that ravaged Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris.
 to retired priest Revd Sue Parfitt, 82, who is currently facing trial for criminal damage linked to a climate protest. Revd Parfitt is accused of damaging the protective glass surrounding the Magna Carta at the British Library during a protest in May 2024. Alongside a fellow activist, she allegedly broke the glass and glued herself to the display, holding a sign reading, ){kind=link}
