Century-Old Church in New Jersey Destroyed by Fire, Scammers Exploit Donation Efforts
Montclair, New Jersey – A historic church that stood for nearly a century fell victim to a disastrous fire, leaving investigators puzzled as they attempt to uncover the cause. Grace Presbyterian Church, located in Montclair, has been reduced to ashes, with everything inside destroyed by the flames that engulfed the building.
Eyewitnesses like Alison Horlock recall the horrifying moment when they witnessed the billowing smoke and observed the roof collapse. Flames shot up in the center, and the entire structure was consumed in a devastating backdraft. The loss of this church, which holds countless memories for generations of families, has united the community in grief.
However, amidst the tragedy, the church’s pastor, Reverend Robin Miller Curras, issued a warning on Friday night. Scammers have wasted no time in taking advantage of the situation, preying on kind-hearted individuals who wish to contribute and help the church rebuild. Curras urged people to remain cautious and avoid falling for fraudulent schemes.
While showing gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received, Curras emphasized that the only legitimate ways to make a donation are through the church’s official website or by writing a check. Grace Presbyterian Church has not set up any GoFundMe pages nor is it making any calls requesting gift certificates. This reminder serves as a precautionary measure to protect well-meaning donors from falling victim to scammers seeking to exploit their generosity.
As investigations into the fire continue, it has been revealed that the blaze originated in the church’s basement, which is primarily used for storage. Despite the devastating loss, church leaders remain hopeful and have already started planning for the reconstruction of Grace Presbyterian Church.
In the midst of this challenging time, the community has rallied together, cherishing cherished memories and pledging their support to their fellow parishioners. State and Montclair officials have also extended their assistance to church members, recognizing the crucial role that Grace Presbyterian Church has played in the lives of so many.
This Sunday, the congregation will gather for a service held on the church’s lawn at 10 a.m., inviting the public to attend and stand in solidarity. Additionally, the church has set up an email address, StoriesofGracePC@gmail.com, where individuals can share their personal stories and memories of being part of the church community.
The devastating fire that destroyed Grace Presbyterian Church is a tragic event that has left a community devastated. However, the strength and resilience of the congregation, combined with the unwavering support from local authorities, offers hope for the future. As the investigation unfolds, the Montclair community stands united, determined to rebuild this century-old church and preserve its legacy for generations to come.
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