Congresswoman Virginia Foxx greeted North Beaver Baptist's Pastor Rick Miller at the June 23 groundbreaking ceremony for the church's new building on N.C. 163.
The members of North Beaver Baptist Church, which was destroyed by fire in July 2012, held a groundbreaking ceremony June 23 at their new church property on N.C. 163.
Many friends and supporters were on hand, including former pastors, local officials and U.S. Congresswoman Virginia Foxx , who spoke to the gathering.
Among those taking part in turning spades of dirt were Pastor Rick Miller, the church’s deacons, trustees and young people. Others helping in the ceremony included Maurice Jordan, superintendent of the construction project, members of his crew, and former pastors’ Rev. Wayne Jones, David Blackburn and Johnny Goodman.
Rev. Goodman offered a dedication prayer and Rev. Blackburn, Director of the Ashe Baptist Association, delivered a message that challenged the church and all attending to catch the vision of what God is doing in their lives .
Dr. Peter Taylor pastor of West Jefferson United Methodist church closed the ceremony with prayer dedicating the church to the glory of Jesus Christ.
Members of the West Jefferson, Glendale and New River volunteer fire departments were on hand to assist in the ceremony. These departments responded to the fire that destroyed the church July 29, 2012.
A joint investigation of the SBI and Ashe County Sheriff’s Office determined that the fire was set intentionally. Sheriff James Williams confirms that the investigation is ongoing, and that his detectives have followed up many leads but there have been no arrest to date.
North Beaver Baptist’s new location on N.C. 163 is beside the Dr. Pepper warehouse adjacent the New River, two miles east of its former site. The church currently meets at Bald Mountain Baptist church on Sunday mornings, and at the West Jefferson fire department building on Wednesday evening for prayer and Bible study.
The church has established a fund to assist in the rebuilding process. Those who wish to contribute can send donations to: Rebuild North Beaver c/o Jessica Yearick , 278 Country Mountain Lane , West Jefferson N.C. 28694.
Pastor Miller and the congregation wish to once again thank all those who have prayed , helped and supported us through this difficult time.
