Bangor Church Condemned After Devastating Fire; Investigation Ongoing

URGENT UPDATE: A devastating fire has severely damaged a nondenominational church in Bangor, prompting officials to condemn the building as investigations into the cause continue. Borough Manager Stephen Reider confirmed that a “condemned” sign was posted on the church located at 125 S. Main St. following the incident early Wednesday morning, July 12, 2023.

The fire erupted around 8:00 AM, with dramatic footage circulating on social media showing flames and smoke billowing from the church’s roof. Emergency responders quickly mobilized, with firefighters battling the blaze for hours. Traffic was diverted around South Main Street, which is also Route 191, as dozens of first responders from across Northampton County rushed to the scene.

“It is still very fresh,” Reider stated, indicating that officials have yet to determine what sparked the fire. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, and no one was inside the church at the time of the incident.

The church, constructed in the early 1900s, is owned by Gethsemane Ministries, while Lighthouse Ministries leases the space. Officials from both congregations could not be reached for immediate comment. The property was originally home to Salem Evangelical Church before its sale to Gethsemane in 2000.

Fire crews utilized a tower ladder to combat the flames, which were visible for miles. The Liberty Fire Company later expressed gratitude to local council members Marissa Donnelly and Marc Sperling for providing essential assistance, food, and water during the emergency response.

As investigations proceed, officials urge anyone with information regarding the fire to come forward. The community remains shaken by the incident, with many expressing their concern for the church and its congregants.

This developing situation continues to be monitored, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Stay tuned for the latest on this urgent matter.