Churches say Arsonists cannot steal their spirit
Ambra Phillips
Section: News
"Some of the churches have hired more security as a precautionary measure, and others are
relying on members of the church," said Neal Franklin, Tyler fire chief.
Concerns at other churches have been raised since the fires first began.
"We're more aware and trying to make sure our church remains safe," said Pastor Cravens,
"But even if something happens to the building, church will go on. The building isn't the
church, the people are."
East Texas is a community of strong faith and that hasn't seemed to change, even with
these tragic turn of events.
"It's the enemy and his influence, but we have to keep the faith and continue to do God's
work in spite of what is happening," Cravens said. "We have to be an example of strong faith
and still let our shine at work, in the community, school, etc."
Those most affected said they are thankful to the community for rallying around them.
"We can't give up and have to pray as a church community," said Cravens. "They can burn
every church in Tyler, and we will still have church even if has to be in a parking lot."
According to McCook, not everything in the First Church of Christ Scientist was a total loss.
The walls of the church still remain and on these walls the scriptures that were written years
ago are still there and readable. One reads, "you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make
you free."
These churches have a long road ahead of them, but they understand they are not
alone. They believe even this is part of God's plan.
One particular scripture that remains on the wall provides McCook with the most comfort, "I know God keeps his promises and as the scripture says, divine love always has met and
always will meet our needs."
relying on members of the church," said Neal Franklin, Tyler fire chief.
Concerns at other churches have been raised since the fires first began.
"We're more aware and trying to make sure our church remains safe," said Pastor Cravens,
"But even if something happens to the building, church will go on. The building isn't the
church, the people are."
East Texas is a community of strong faith and that hasn't seemed to change, even with
these tragic turn of events.
"It's the enemy and his influence, but we have to keep the faith and continue to do God's
work in spite of what is happening," Cravens said. "We have to be an example of strong faith
and still let our shine at work, in the community, school, etc."
Those most affected said they are thankful to the community for rallying around them.
"We can't give up and have to pray as a church community," said Cravens. "They can burn
every church in Tyler, and we will still have church even if has to be in a parking lot."
According to McCook, not everything in the First Church of Christ Scientist was a total loss.
The walls of the church still remain and on these walls the scriptures that were written years
ago are still there and readable. One reads, "you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make
you free."
These churches have a long road ahead of them, but they understand they are not
alone. They believe even this is part of God's plan.
One particular scripture that remains on the wall provides McCook with the most comfort, "I know God keeps his promises and as the scripture says, divine love always has met and
always will meet our needs."
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