DALLAS, July 19,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Dr. Robert Jeffress, Senior Pastor of 156-year-old
First Baptist, Dallas, which saw
its historic sanctuary catch fire earlier today, commented on the
tragedy, "We are grateful that no life has been lost that we know
of even though we just had 2,000 children and volunteers on campus
for Vacation Bible School earlier in the day.
"As tragic as the loss of this old sanctuary is, we are grateful
that the church is not bricks and wood but composed of over 16,000
people who are determined more than ever before to reach the world
for the gospel of Christ," Jeffress added. "Please pray for all of
First Baptist Dallas."
Dr. Jeffress grew up at First Baptist Dallas. He was baptized in
the Historic Sanctuary at age 9, ordained there when he was 21 and
holds many memories of the church.
The Historic Sanctuary was a significant landmark in
Downtown Dallas. It was the site
of visits from Presidents Woodrow
Wilson, Gerald Ford, and
George H. W. Bush. President
Donald Trump visited the new worship
center of the church in 2021.
"We thank the Dallas Fire
Department and Dallas Police
Department for their quick action, courage, and ongoing
aid," Jeffress added.
Editor's Note: For more information or to request an
interview with Dr. Jeffress, please contact Abigail Miller at amiller@firstdallas.org or
214-663-9933.
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SOURCE First Baptist Dallas