Video footage has surfaced showing a huge fire at a Dallas megachurch linked to Robert Jeffress, a pastor and ally of Donald Trump.
Firefighters rushed to the First Baptist Dallas church on Friday evening after reports of a blaze. Initially a 2nd alarm fire, it quickly escalated to a 3rd alarm, requiring a significant response with multiple fire engines and trucks. As the fire intensified, it was upgraded to a 4th alarm.
The fire, visible across the city, led to partial collapse of the church’s secondary chapel, according to officials.
Jeffress assured on social media that no injuries were reported due to the fire.
Video clips shared on social media depicted a section of the church engulfed in flames with dark smoke billowing into the sky.
Please keep the First Baptist Dallas community in your prayers as their historic sanctuary is ablaze. The cause of the fire is unknown. Let’s pray for the safety of all involved.
– Center for Baptist Leadership
Ben Lovvorn, executive pastor of First Baptist Dallas, speculated that the fire began around 6 p.m. but the cause remained unknown.
Lovvorn, who was among the last individuals in the building, expressed faith that despite the trying times, they are planning to hold church services on Sunday.
Established in 1868 with a handful of members, First Baptist Dallas has grown to over 16,000 members. The church’s mission is to spread God’s word globally through various ministries including Pathway to Victory broadcast and iCampus reaching millions worldwide.
Jeffress, a close ally of Trump, requested prayers for their church post-fire, emphasizing faith and resilience in difficult times.
No casualties were reported in a subsequent statement released by Jeffress. Despite the loss of the historic sanctuary, the focus remains on the church’s 16,000+ members committed to sharing the gospel.
Jeffress, a significant Christian adviser to former President Trump, refrained from endorsing Trump in the 2024 primaries, anticipating a contentious battle within the Republican Party.