New church building to gratify aspirations of years

The residents of Arapahoe, town in Pamlico County, North Carolina, United States will don’t have to regret anymore since the commencement of the new Bethany Christian Church building is close at hand. There is no doubt that the destruction of erstwhile building, which was devastated by fire in June 2007, shocked the entire area along with the vicinity. It is also true that inauguration of the new building which is scheduled for Sunday as the culmination of 22 months of fund-raising and building will please all.

What led to the earlier destruction? Well, it was a faulty wiring that the led to the devastation of the historic church building, which was 95 years old. On the word of interim pastor Merritt Watson Jr., the wholehearted participation of the community behind the noble project has transformed the dream into a reality. As said by the pastor, the financial contribution from the community, churches throughout Eastern North Carolina and from the membership has been overwhelming.

It is hoped, therefore, that Sunday’s 3 p.m. dedication will grant an opportunity to thank all those people and the firefighters who tried to save the church, in conjunction with families who gave stained glass windows, chancel furniture, an organ and a piano. It should be noted, apart from aforesaid contributors, former members and their families who had moved from Pamlico County also contributed profusely. He said, “People were very generous in their giving. We had a lot of gracious support from surrounding churches, not only of our own denomination but other denominations.” Watson added that the list included churches which had also suffered tragedies such as fires.

Last but not least, the new facility costs $1.2 million even though the insurance on the old building was only $400,000. The Sunday dedication service will be followed by a reception with refreshments in the fellowship hall. Anyone is welcome to attend.