An Obstacle that Strengthened a Congregation
The purpose of this page is to preserve a part of our history that will not soon be forgotten. On August 15, 2008, two days following the close by building fire at Mt. Pleasant Church of Christ, MTZ lost a building that had been worshipped in for nearly 157 years due to a fire that was determined by ATF officials to be arson. The church consist of people, therefore “our church” was not lost that August night. However, a building that was dear to our members and community is gone forever. Through this tragedy our congregation was strengthened and a community of helping hands were brought together.
Immediately following our loss, prayers were lifted up, unsolicited donations were received, and people from the Richardsville community and people throughout the country reached out to help our congregation build a new building.
During our rebuilding process, our congregation met for worship in the Richardsville Elementary School cafeteria and Richardsville Community Center, while Mt. Pleasant worshipped in the school gymnasium. We are forever gracious that both locations were available for our use during our difficult time.
After a re-building process of approximately eight months, Mt. Zion returned to the rolling hills of Greencastle to worship God on April 12, 2009 (Easter Sunday). Through our difficult time we learned how we often take so many things for granted and how we should all be more appreciative regarding the resources we have available; but more importantly we learned that good can come from evil. This real life experience taught MTZ how important it is to continue to fully rely on God and rely on our fellow Christians for help and comfort through difficult times.
We appreciate Steve Milam beyond what words can express for his love and mercy that was shown to our congregation. Steve contracted the entire rebuilding process free of charge. We thank the One Most High most importantly for all He has blessed and continues to bless our congregation with. Thanks to so many, the new MTZ church building is 100% debt-free.
Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. — 1 Peter 3:9