Severe overnight fire damages modern multi-purpose church building in Phoenix

PHOENIX (AZFamily) – An overnight fire damaged a multi-purpose church building in Phoenix on Sunday.

At around 1 a.m., firefighters responded to Great Hearts Christos Phoenix Christian School, which is affiliated with the Alhambra Beloved Church and is located near 19th and Glenrosa Avenues. Crews battled a rapidly spreading fire. Firefighters concluded that the fire likely started in the gymnasium and spread to classrooms on the first and second floors of the building.

The church building and gymnasium were constructed by volunteers in the mid-20th century, with the original design by Robert “Ralph” Parachek.

Firefighters fought the flames with an aggressive interior attack, preventing the fire from spreading to surrounding buildings on the property, including the main church.

No one was injured or left homeless as a result of the fire. According to investigators, it is still too early to determine the cause of the fire.

Arizona’s family spoke with a church leader who said services will begin as planned Sunday morning since the flames did not reach the church. However, the air conditioning in the building that houses the children’s church has been turned off, so children and adults will attend the same service.

The church’s regular schedule includes prayer at 9:15 a.m. and services starting at 10 a.m.

It is unclear if students will be in class on Monday. Arizona’s family has contacted school staff.

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