‘Miracle’ at Castle Rock, Wash. Church Defies Arson

The pastor of the United Methodist Church in Castle Rock, Wash., says it’s a miracle her church survived an attempted arson in which fires were set in six places in the building.

Fires were started early Sunday on artificial flowers, a table cloth, cardboard boxes and the pastor’s desk. All burned out without spreading.

Pastor Vonda McFadden told The Daily News it seems the century-old church was divinely spared. One fire burned up to an old Bible but left the book untouched. Another fire was stopped by a framed picture of Jesus.

The Sunday service for about 70 worshippers was held amid the strong smell of smoke. McFadden preached forgiveness.

Police arrested a man who had been seen intoxicated near the church. He’s jailed on suspicion of burglary and arson.