Massive blaze destroys suburban Chicago church

Ford Heights church asks for donations after fire

A local pastor and his congregation are now looking to rebuild from the ashes of a devastating fire.  You can see just how big the flames got consuming their church in Ford Heights.

FORD HEIGHTS - A historic South Side church is heavily damaged after a fire tore through the building on Wednesday.

What we know:

Firefighters were called to True Light Temple of Praise, at 1602 Drexel Avenue, on Wednesday around 2:45 p.m. SkyFOX video shows flames fully engulfing the church as crews worked to bring the fire under control.

Pastor James Morgan says when firefighters arrived, flames were already pushing through the roof. Conditions quickly became dangerous, forcing crews to pull back. The roof later collapsed.

Pastor Morgan says maintenance workers were inside the church at the time of the fire. They were able to get out on their own and were treated for smoke inhalation.

The church is 58 years old and had recently begun renovations, spending tens of thousands of dollars to revitalize the building. The fire comes just after the congregation celebrated the church’s anniversary.

Fire officials say the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The church is now asking the public for donations to help rebuild.

What's next:

Fire investigators continue working to determine what sparked the blaze. Church leaders say details on where the community can gather to worship will be shared in the coming days.

Anyone who would like the help the church, should visit tltop.info.