Authorities say Okla. Church Fire Was Work of Arsonist

An arsonist set a fire in October that significantly damaged a Baptist church building in Oktaha, Okla., according to officials with the state Fire Marshal’s Office.

The fire on Oct. 10 caused about $200,000 worth of damage to the New Hope Baptist Church, which had just undergone renovations that included a new roof, new paint and new restrooms. No arrests have been made in the case.

The New Hope Baptist congregation now is meeting on Sundays in a United Methodist church building in Oktaha and on Wednesdays in a community church building, also in Oktaha.

Kay Lang, the wife of New Hope Baptist’s pastor, Leonard Lang, said the church did have some insurance on its building, but not enough to cover the damage.

“Any donations would be appreciated, and I would like to say thanks for all the donations coming in,” Kay Lang said. “Every little bit helps.”

She said the church plans to rebuild its building.

Information from: Muskogee Phoenix, www.muskogeephoenix.com.