GATLINBURG, Tenn. — Since the 1960s, the Gatlinburg Church of Christ played a key role in the community. That all nearly came to an end during the 2016 Gatlinburg wildfires, when its building was destroyed. But despite the fire, its members never lost their faith.
"There was a strong commitment to rebuild," said Rodger Comstock, its minister. "Our intention is to reach people with the gospel."
The wildfires killed 14 people and destroyed thousands of structures. Swaths of land caught on fire while embers crawled onto the road, all while images and videos were shared across social media in 2016 — capturing one of the deadliest wildfires in state history.
According to court documents, they caused more than $1 billion in damages. More than 300 agencies from across the state pitched in to help Gatlinburg first responders.
Comstock became minister of the church months after the wildfires.
"We had three of our own members lose everything," he said. "It literally burnt to the ground. All that was left was the metal from the roof and some of the block from the foundation."
Although the wildfires devastated the church, some parts of it still remain seven years later. However, it took around three years before the church could welcome people back, finally reopening its doors in December 2019. During that time, they had to find other places to gather.
"We didn't go out and ask for money. We didn't, you know, put anything out requesting help. They just voluntarily started sending money," said Comstock. "It was known all over the place, and in this area is a frame of the church. It was all beautiful. Big wood beams and wood ceiling."
Years after the wildfires, he said the church is thankful for the support it received.
"We want to thank everyone here in the community and, you know, from around the country. We wouldn't have this building, probably, if it weren't for their help," he said.