Sad Night in Dignowity Hill

Childress Memorial Church of God in Christ

Stained Glass Windows

Church was built in 1908

Rows of Windows on Pine Street side.

Windows on Bell Tower

After the Fire

What remains of the Bell Tower

 It was a sad night in Dignowity the night that Childress Memorial Church burned to a rubble.  It left a congregation homeless and our neighborhood stunned at how quickly this beautiful structure went up in flames. The historic church building was built in 1908 by a Baptist congregation that then sold the property to Childress in 1964.  The church building was a landmark in the neighborhood and the congregation provides a strong presence of stability. This is the second time in the history of this congregation that a fire has displaced them. It was because of a fire that destroyed their previous home church in the early 60's that led the congregation to Dignowity Hill.  Now their beloved building is gone and the congregation will begin determining what to do next.

My hope is that the congregation decides to stay in Dignowity Hill. Besides the fact that I loved the old church building it was the graciousness of the congregation with neighborhood that touched me the most and it is for them that I share in their loss.  Buildings can be replaced.  Replacing a spirit filled community such as Childress is another matter.