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A Faith with Deep Roots

Balsora Baptist Church has long been a beacon of faith in Wise County, Texas. For roughly a century, the church served generations of families in the Bridgeport area, growing into a close‑knit congregation of around 75 members by 2022.

The Fire of June 17, 2022

On June 17, 2022, as crews were working on renovations to the fellowship hall, a sudden fire broke out during their lunch break. When they returned, the church building was fully engulfed. The fire roof collapsed while firefighters were inside, and several responders received minor heat‑related injuries.

The blaze destroyed nearly everything—except one striking symbol of endurance: in the smoky rubble of the sanctuary stood a single charred cross, untouched by the flames. Members had used this cross to hang prayer requests, and its survival became a poignant reminder that the Church is more than a building.

Pastor Sonny Smith reflected that seeing the cross still standing “showed us that God is there… He’s going to get us through.” The congregation gathered for worship outdoors the following Sunday, continuing in their faith despite the loss.

Rebuilding in Hope

Despite the devastation, the community rallied quickly. The church was insured and received thousands of dollars in donations within days. Members broke ground on a new building shortly afterward, symbolizing the beginning of a renewed chapter in Balsora’s story.

By Christmas Eve 2024, Balsora Baptist Church had welcomed its congregation back into a beautifully restored sanctuary. In a moving candlelight service, voices lifted in song around a newly rebuilt space—a sign that faith, fellowship, and worship had risen from the ashes.