By Jordan Copeland
Pastor, First Pentecostal Church of Buford
BUFORD, Ga. | Thanksgiving Day began like so many others—a day filled with gratitude, family, and cherished traditions. We shared a wonderful time at home before joining our church family in the early afternoon. It was a day of love and connection, but by 10 p.m., everything changed.
Copeland
I received a call that would alter the course of our lives—our church was on fire. As I arrived and saw the flames rapidly consuming the building, an overwhelming wave of emotion swept over me. This wasn’t just a structure; it was the heartbeat of our community. The church was originally built in 1932 as the First Baptist Church.
Within those walls, countless lives had been transformed. It was a place of redemption, celebration, and healing. It was where my father faithfully led our congregation for over two decades, leaving behind a legacy etched in every corner. His office housed irreplaceable memories, and my own office held years of personal writings. This sacred space bore witness to baptisms, weddings, and funerals—moments that defined our church family.
While we know the church is not confined to a building—it is the people, the relationships, and the love we share—this building was where our hearts grew together in faith and unity. Despite the heartbreak of this loss, I am overwhelmed with gratitude to God for His protection.
Not a single life was harmed. On any other Thursday night, we would have been gathered for midweek service, but because it was Thanksgiving, that service was canceled. I also thank God for the courage of three young men who ran into the building with extinguishers to fight the fire. By His grace, they made it out unharmed.
During and after the church fire.
In the two weeks since the fire, we have experienced an outpouring of love and kindness from our city. So many people have reached out with prayers, support, and generosity. Local churches and businesses have extended their hands to us, offering spaces for our services and our school.
We are especially grateful to Pastor Joey Grizzle and the Buford Church of God, Pastor Jim Buckman and Buford First Methodist, Pastor Dinora Merida and Iglesia de Cristo Elim, and businessman Tamer Massalha, who has generously provided meeting space on Main Street in downtown Buford. Pastor Aaron Young and Rising Church have also been unbelievably kind in opening up a place for our school.
Through it all, I cannot help but see God’s hand at work. Even in loss, He has shown us His faithfulness. Buildings can be replaced, but the bonds of our church family—and the vision God has for us—remain unshaken. I firmly believe He is guiding us through this season and has a greater purpose in store for our congregation.
All in all, I cannot complain. God has kept His hand on us, and things could be a lot worse than what they are! With all my heart I believe that God has a plan for our congregation, and I’m believing that He will bring us all the way through. Thank you to everyone for your love, prayers, and support!!!
From the depths of my heart, thank you for your prayers, love, and unwavering support. Your kindness has strengthened us in ways we cannot fully express.
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