Westside United Methodist Church loses education building

The Westside United Methodist Church in Beaverton, Oregon suffered a major fire in the early hours of Monday, May 04. A 1960’s era education building caught fire in the night, and is a complete loss. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

The building, which did not have sprinklers or an alarm system was primarily used as Sunday school space. The separate sanctuary building only had minor damage from the heat of the fire and a few broken windows.

Pastor Brian Shimer reports that other churches have offered worship space if it’s needed, but he hopes to be in their own space on Sunday, saying, “I think it’s important that we worship on that property this week.”

Shimer goes on to say, “We are so thankful that no one was injured and the cement block construction helped keep the fire from spreading to other buildings.

After we meet with insurance representatives we will begin planning for the future. We will be looking to rebuild that space as a facility that can continue to serve the needs of the church and the community. Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians says ‘rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus’. That’s what I’m dwelling on today for strength and inspiration.”