ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Just over six months ago, a devastating fire destroyed an historic church on Second Avenue in Albany. Now, Bishop Avery Comithier, of Elijah Missionary Baptist Church, is planning to rebuild. But when he looks at the pile of rubble, he said it is still troubling.
“A lot of hurt. A lot of pain. But then, I’m optimistic. Being a Christian, I’m optimistic that God is still in control. And what seems impossible can be possible with him.”
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That is how the bishop said he feels as he reflected on the historical church that once stood proud and served his parish. The fire was started by a heater in the sanctuary, and that part of the building was lost to the flames.
The bishop explained that the cost incurred for the demolition and repair is growing but had felt assured that the city would help. “As far as the cost, the night of the fire and even the next day, I was told by Mayor Sheehan that, you know, thank God you’re alive first, and then don’t worry; the city will kick in, the city will help. And I felt pretty relieved from that,” said Comithier…