CLEARFIELD – A second-alarm fire completely destroyed a local church early Sunday morning.
The fire broke out at approximately 4:30 a.m. at the Riverview Bible Church, located at 1107 Riverview Rd., Clearfield.
State police say the 5,500-square-foot building was unoccupied, and the fire was reported by a passing motorist who saw the flames.
Damage has been estimated at over $1 million. No injuries were reported as a result of the fire.
The Lawrence Township police and the Hyde Fire Co. investigated the fire with assistance from a state police fire marshal.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact state police at 814-776-6136 or township police.
Though the church no longer has its roof and steeple, its Facebook page sends a forward-looking message of hope.
“We had a wonderful Thanksgiving meal together last night, not knowing it would be our last in our building.
“With the grace of God, we will rebuild and start afresh. We have to believe that God always wants what’s best for His children. Our hearts are broken as we looked upon the blaze and were helpless.
“God saved [the] pastor’s Bible on his desk with smoke and water damage, but it has some notes in it. Appreciate what you have and don’t take church life for granted. Love God!”