On the evening of Wednesday, October 23rd, life at Calvary Baptist Church changed forever. Our weekly Prayer Group and Bible Study had just ended, and by 7:45 p.m., the church stood empty. But just 20 minutes later, the unimaginable happened–a fire broke out in the very building where we’ve worshiped, prayed, and served for generations.

As a volunteer firefighter for over 45 years, I know the swift, life-altering impact of that call for help. But nothing prepared me for being on the other side of the flames–standing not as a firefighter, but as a pastor, helplessly watching the church I love go up in smoke.

Yet what I witnessed that night went far beyond the destruction of walls and windows. I saw something more powerful: a community united in care, service, and love.

The firefighters of Tower One from the Williamsport Bureau of Fire, while responding to another call, just happened to pass by our church and noticed smoke. Without hesitation, they stopped to investigate, ultimately declaring a working fire. That simple act of vigilance set in motion a chain of events that saved our beloved building from further devastation. Soon, volunteer firefighters, already gathered for a training session, rushed to the scene, along with crews from Loyalsock Volunteer Fire Company, who had just cleared another call. It was no coincidence that so many were in the right place at the right time–it was God’s hand guiding them.

When I arrived, the air was thick with smoke and the scent of burning wood. But what stood out to me wasn’t just the fire; it was the care and precision with which the firefighters carried out their duties. They weren’t just extinguishing a blaze; they were preserving a legacy. I watched in awe as they carefully covered our piano, organ, and holy items to protect them from the water and smoke. They took the time to move our altar to a safe location. They didn’t just see a building on fire–they saw a house of worship, a place filled with meaning for so many.

One moment stands out in particular. A hot spot was found above one of our stained-glass windows. The quickest solution would have been to smash it and gain immediate access to the fire. But these firefighters were determined to save that window. With incredible patience, they removed it in sections, preserving its beauty and integrity. Their care in that moment felt like an act of love–a love for the community and for what the church represents.

But it wasn’t just the firefighters. EMS crews from UPMC stood by, ready to assist anyone who needed help. Our city police ensured the area remained safe and secure. And then there were the people–our neighbors–who didn’t just come to watch the fire, but came to ask how they could help. We, as a church, are often the ones offering help, but that night, it was the community reaching out to us.

In a time when differences often seem to divide us, that night reminded me of the strength and goodness we can find when we come together. It was a powerful reminder that, in the face of adversity, we are not alone.

On behalf of the congregation of Calvary Baptist Church and myself, I want to thank every single firefighter, EMS crew member, police officer, and neighbor who showed up that night with hands ready to serve and hearts full of compassion. You didn’t just save a building–you lifted up a community.

As we move forward from this moment, I pray that we can carry this spirit of unity with us. Just as we came together to fight a common threat, may we come together to face the challenges in our neighborhoods and build a future filled with hope, peace, and love.

The Rev. Howard Woodruff is pastor for Calvary Baptist Church on Washington Boulevard.