HOUSTON – One of the oldest and most historic churches in Acres Homes, Guiding Light Baptist Church, tragically burned down in a devastating fire.
On Oct. 23, 2024, at approximately 4:30 a.m., 35 Houston Fire Department (HFD) personnel from multiple stations responded to the fire at 6719 W. Cohn St.
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According to HPD, the church was “totally involved in fire and made a defensive attack.”
As HFD firefighters worked to contain the flames, they also acted swiftly to protect a neighboring house under construction. Using saws to access the property, they cut through the front door and removed burglar bars to prevent the fire from spreading.
CenterPoint Energy was requested to secure the utilities, ensuring the safety of the scene. After an intense battle, the fire was extinguished, and the incident is now under arson investigation by HFD officials.
Guiding Light Baptist Church was declared a total loss, although the nearby home sustained only minor heat damage. Vera Baker, First Lady of Guiding Light Baptist Church, reflected somberly on the losses, saying, “[So many] memories was burned up.”
As she recounted the cherished items destroyed in the fire, she mentioned the tambourine, the organ, the piano, and the Lord’s Supper tables. “Those Lord’s Supper tables were handmade… [Pastor Joseph Baker’s] brother-in-law handmade those tables,” she shared. “We had sentimental [pieces] in there that had been there since the church was there... this is why it’s such a hurtful thing.”
Pastor Joseph Baker, who has been leading the church for the past 35 years, expressed the profound impact of this loss on the community.
“This church has been a haven of refuge for those who have been incarcerated, rejected, and cast down by life’s circumstances,” he shared. “It is such a hurtful feeling, knowing our meeting place is gone. But we trust God that He will guide us as we rebuild. We deeply appreciate any donations, whether monetary or in the form of building supplies.”
To aid in rebuilding efforts, Guiding Light Baptist Church has set up a GoFundMe page, seeking community support to restore this cherished place of worship and community refuge. Pastor and First Lady Baker emphasized that the fire will not stop Guiding Light Baptist Church from worshiping.
The congregation is currently sharing space at 6420 Radcliffe St. with another church as they work toward rebuilding their cherished home.
