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By Mike Barnhardt

Enterprise Record

Almost two years ago, lightning struck the steeple at Smith Grove United Methodist Church east of Mocksville.

A subsequent fire damaged the sanctuary.

It’s been a long journey for the members, who have been holding services in the fellowship hall and parking lot while the sanctuary is being repaired. Insurance payments have delayed construction, but the erection of a new steeple last week makes members realize that their sanctuary isn’t that far from being completed.

The church hopes to hold indoor services in the sanctuary by the end of June.

“Raising the steeple means that we are moving forward,” said the Rev. Darren Crotts, pastor. “While our church has not let this fire defeat our many community efforts, it is important to be able to see tangible results that will ultimately lead us back into worship within the sacred space of the sanctuary.”

Several members were on hand when the steeple – shorter than the one struck by lightning – was installed.

“It was a great day to be able to celebrate and be thankful for all that God was, is, and will be in our faith journey. The new steeple also shows our community that we are on the move towards our rebuild.”

The decision to put a steeple back on the church wasn’t an easy one, but was agreed upon with a shorter length.

“There have been many challenges to our rebuild process. We are just so thankful that God has seen fit for us to really begin the process of repairs in earnest. The new and positive changes can be seen almost daily now. It is exciting,” Crotts said.

He remembers the night of the fire, and the days that followed. It reminded the pastor how thankful they are to be a part of Davie County.

Farmington Baptist provided audio/visual equipment.The United Methodist Foundation and Wesley Community Development Corp. pitched in. Many volunteers stepped up.

“Above all – we’re thankful for the family, friends and those connected to our church who have continued to hope in earnest for this rebuild by supporting us with their prayers, thoughts and well wishes since June 18, 2019,” Crotts said.