Huntingdon Salvation Army reminded of miracles every day since fire

HUNTINGDON, Pa. -- The inside of the Huntingdon Salvation Army church was destroyed by fire just before Christmas. Now, leaders are working towards rebuilding.

In the past two months since the fire, the foundation of the church; both the building and its people are strong. Salvation Army Auxiliary Captains Philip and Charity Bender say they're taking every day as it comes but are still waiting for a chance to rebuild.

"The people from Huntingdon County are going to have a big say in what happens with the church," says Philip.

It's all about community at the Salvation Army on Shadyside Avenue.

"Things have been very busy," says Charity. "Just making sure that our people still know that they can still come to worship because we're not stopping because of a fire."

"The people are still out there. They're still constantly asking us how it's going at the church, if everything is going well. And we're still receiving hugs, at least I am," laughs Philip.

Back in December just before Christmas, the inside of the church was destroyed by fire. All the toys for kids for Christmas, later replaced thanks to donations, were all gone.

A State Police Fire Marshal says it was electrical. Still boarded up and taped off Wednesday, the building itself it still strong.

"Right now, it's just at a standstill. We're still waiting to hear. But as soon as we hear, we're going to go. Hopefully still keep the church the same way it is because everyone in Huntingdon County recognizes the church," says Philip.

He adds they're waiting to hear from the insurance company and those at the Salvation Army Headquarters about what's next.

Until then, every service the church offers is happening right next door at its Memorial Hall.

Every day in the Hall, a cross serves as a reminder of how far the congregation has come and where it plans to go. This was one of the only surviving objects from the fire, singed and burnt up, but not down and out.

"Where this cross was hanging, it was hanging high to the ceiling and that's where all the heat was and everything is destroyed," says Philip. "The cross, the cross was saved."

"Seeing how the whole community, the whole Huntingdon County, working together and just being a part of this. It just gives me chills thinking about," says Charity.

The Benders say there are ways you can still help. First, they ask for prayer. Second, you can always stop by the Salvation Army or call to lend a helping hand.

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