Bangor Church Condemned After Devastating Fire; Investigation Underway

UPDATE: A devastating fire has severely damaged a nondenominational church in Bangor, prompting officials to condemn the building as an investigation into the cause of the blaze continues. Borough Manager Stephen Reider confirmed early Thursday that a “condemned” sign has been placed at the church located at 125 S. Main St.

The fire erupted on the morning of July 12, 2023, and initial reports indicate that there were no injuries, as no one was inside the church when the flames broke out. “It is still very fresh,” Reider stated. “I haven’t been made aware of anything new.”

Social media footage revealed dramatic scenes, showcasing flames and thick smoke billowing from the church’s roof, visible for miles around. Firefighters from Liberty Fire Company 2 and other local units battled the blaze for hours, utilizing a tower ladder to combat the flames. Authorities closed traffic on South Main Street, also known as Route 191, to ensure the safety of the public and allow emergency crews to work effectively.

The church, built in the early 1900s, is owned by Gethsemane Ministries, while Lighthouse Ministries leases the space. Attempts to reach officials from both congregations for comment were unsuccessful. According to Northampton County property records, the property was previously owned by Salem Evangelical Church before its sale to Gethsemane in 2000.

Local officials have expressed gratitude to council members Marissa Donnelly and Marc Sperling for their support, providing food and water to first responders during the emergency response.

As the investigation unfolds, residents are left to grapple with the emotional impact of the fire on their community. Authorities have yet to determine the cause, and updates are expected as the situation develops.

Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent situation as more information becomes available.