Burned Church Reopens

TYLER — More than a year ago, the First Church of Christ, Scientist in Tyler was added to the long list of East Texas churches destroyed by arsonists. The picture shows what it looked like then. But on Easter Sunday, a new chapter began for the congregation. After months of construction, the installation of a brand new roof, and a high tech alarm system, the church officially reopened its doors for services. Members say they’re thrilled with the new building. Says one member, “We’re just so grateful that it worked out this way and everything just fell into place to rebuild. We’re just grateful that the community supported us so, from all over, and not just Texas, but (from all over) the United States, we received donations to help us rebuild this church.”

The church was one out of a string of ten suspected arson cases linked to two East Texas men, Jason Bourque and Daniel McAllister. Both pleaded guilty and will serve life sentences in prison for the crimes. The congregation met in nearby First Presbyterian Church while awaiting repairs.