CRESTVIEW — Full Gospel Tabernacle Church’s congregation is accepting donations following a June 12 fire that consumed its place of worship.
The Florida State Fire Marshal's office has confirmed that an accidental electrical fire claimed the fully insured 8th Avenue building. The Rev. Steve Bolton and church members await more information from an insurance claims adjuster.
In the meantime, others in north Okaloosa County’s faith community have stepped up to help.
"Our pastor has received numerous phone calls from local churches and pastors wanting to help out in any way they can," Janet Lundy, the church's secretary, said.
One individual who wished to remain anonymous donated a $500 check to the church, she said.
Joyce Nichols, a part-time employee at Gospel Lighthouse in Crestview, said that, with the storeowner’s permission, she placed a donation jar near the store's checkout counter.
She was inspired to do so after Bolton stopped by the store to purchase a Bible to replace one that the fire destroyed.
"He came in and we prayed," Nichols said. "I felt the Lord was leading me to help them in some way."
Others can donate to an account set up at First National Bank of Crestview. Contributions will fund upkeep of the church's temporary place of worship, 401 E. Robinson Ave., where Healing Stream Ministries Church meets. The building will receive a sound system upgrade and connection to Crestview’s sewer service, which is necessary due to the facility’s increase use, Bolton said.
Want to donate?
Visit Gospel Lighthouse, 1051 S. Ferdon Blvd., or all three First National Bank of Crestview locations to support Full Gospel Tabernacle Church’s recovery efforts. Click here for bank locations and business hours.
Contact News Bulletin Staff Writer Matthew Brown at 850-682-6524 or matthewb@crestviewbulletin.com. Follow him on Twitter @cnbMatthew.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Crestview church accepting donations following fire