Investigation continues in Winder church fire

WINDER - Fire officials continued Saturday to investigate a blaze that destroyed a 108-year-old church in Winder late Thursday night.

The church's brick walls, virtually all that remained of the building, were torn down Friday to prevent them from collapsing on investigators.

There's no official cause yet, but Fire Chief Matt Whiting said the blaze at the historic Sanctuary of the Holy Spirit flared during a thunderstorm. Investigators suspect lightning.

The pastor, Philip Adair, said other churches have offered temporary space for his congregation to hold worship services. He's not sure if they'll rebuild at the site.

The church building stood on the edge of downtown Winder since 1904. Rev. Adair mortgaged his home to buy it in 2005.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2012/7/251193