Johnson Ferry Baptist Church officials said Thursday that a fire in the chapel building caught fire Wednesday evening but was contained by firefighters and nobody was injured.
In a release, the church said that Cobb Fire crews were called around 9 p.m. Wednesday to the chapel—at left in photo, next to the current sanctuary—after the fire alarm system was triggered, and discovered smoke coming from the chapel area.
“The fire department acted quickly to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the campus,” the release said. “Thanks to their rapid and professional response, the fire was brought under control in a short period of time.”
The release said that “outside of a lingering smoke smell, no other buildings on the church property were affected.” The cause of the fire is under investigation but “we have ruled out that any foul play was involved.”
The chapel holds special events, including weddings, and other activities at Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, which is located on a 37-acre campus.
The release said that “all worship services and ministry activities will continue as scheduled in other parts of the campus.”
Rev. Clay Smith, the senior pastor at Johnson Ferry, thanked fire crews for their response: “Their professionalism and swift action kept everyone safe and contained the damage to the Chapel. We’re thankful for their service to our community, and for God’s protection over our church family.”
Related:
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- Fundraiser started for owner of Chin Chin restaurant
- Chin Chin restaurant destroyed by fire
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Did the church’s “release” (Facebook posts) say the fire was an own goal? [1]
Isn’t being completely honest about one’s errors and shortcomings supposed to be part of the process? [2]
Or is that part optional when there are donations and insurance claims to be had. Or if your leader is someone who puts character last. [3]
1. The blaze was accidental and caused by paper materials covering up lights that were set for painting and which ignited, said Lt. Stephen Bennett of the Cobb Fire Department.
Source: https://cobbcountycourier.com/2025/10/paint-preparation-supplies-ignite-causing-minor-damage-to-johnson-ferry-baptist/
2. Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.
Source: Proverbs 28:13 (NIV)
3. “Hiring a new pastor or staff member requires that you do your best to evaluate their:
Calling
Chemistry
Competency
Capacity
Character
All 5 matter. In any order.”
~ Rev. Clay Smith (Sep. 1, 2021)
Source: https://x.com/claysmith79/status/1433206565088149504
Sincerely,
~ Peter
What the heck are you saying, man?