A fire broke out on Christmas Day at the Reformation Covenant Church in Oregon City, causing significant damage. Clackamas Fire reported the incident occurred shortly after 2 p.m. on December 25, 2023.
The Incident Overview
The church, located near the intersection of John Quincy Adams Street and 12th Street, suffered extensive fire damage. Clackamas County Fire Battalion Chief Josh Santos remarked on the unusual severity of the fire for a holiday. “I personally, in my 25-year career, haven’t seen such a disastrous fire on Christmas Day,” he stated.
Fire Response and Damage Assessment
Firefighters discovered flames trapped between the old and new sections of the church’s roof. This unique challenge necessitated a strategic response, where crews had to fight the fire from above.
- Fire reported: December 25, 2023 at 2 p.m.
- Fire contained by: 3:30 p.m.
- Location: Reformation Covenant Church, Oregon City
Chief Santos explained, “We prioritized putting people on the roof, cutting holes across the entire roof because of that void space.” Fire crews worked diligently to suppress the flames while ensuring the safety of personnel.
Impact on the Community
Fortunately, no services were taking place at the church when the fire occurred. However, the damage left behind is devastating. Crews will remain on site to monitor the area and prevent any potential reignition.
- Extent of damage:
- Significant structural damage to the roof.
- Widespread smoke damage in office spaces.
- Overall impact on the congregation’s operations.
Investigation and Community Response
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Chief Santos expressed his sympathy for the congregation, noting the emotional toll of the event. “It breaks your heart,” he said. He encouraged community members to focus on their health and loved ones during this challenging time.
“We just have to celebrate being healthy and we’ll fix the church,” he concluded. The community of Oregon City will undoubtedly rally together as they look to recover from this unfortunate event.
