Walkerville Evangelical Baptist Church

(CBC news)

Dozens of parishioners held an emotional Sunday service outside on the grass, next to their burned-out church, with memories of the week-old blaze still fresh in their minds.

Fire caused the roof to collapse on the 107-year-old Walkerville Evangelical Baptist Church on Oct. 27. Everyone escaped without injury.

“The walls are still standing and so are we,” said Lynda Perry, the pastor’s wife.

Sunday was the first time everyone has been back to the church for a formal service, together.

“It’s kind of overwhelming,” said Miriam Suryawan, holding back tears. “It’s so hard to see a place that we lead worship every single Sunday [like this.] So much history, so much sentimental value. We know that God is good, but it’s kind of heavy on the heart to feel and see all of this.”

Windsor fire investigators determined the blaze was accidental and caused $1 million in damage. Even though the church is structurally unstable, many feel the congregation is still strong.

“We don’t forsake the coming together,” said Jairie Ferasol. “We find strength in that. Having all these people here, that’s what it’s all about. And without them I don’t know where any of us individually would be.”

Ferasol has been attending this church for 20 years. He recalls when his parents renewed their wedding vows inside for their 25th and 50th anniversaries.