Community Leaders Show Solidarity for Pleasant Grove Baptist Church

Community leaders and residents gathered on the Public Square this morning in a powerful show of solidarity for Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, which was destroyed by fire nine days ago on Saturday, July 19th.
The news conference, organized by Rep. Robert Williams of Darlington County, brought together pastors from various denominations, city officials, first responders and church members to rally support for the historic congregation as they face the daunting task of rebuilding.
"Tragedy can come to any of our doors at any time," Williams told the assembled crowd. "And when it does, as people, as members of the community, and as children of God, we should be there, ready to support one another."
The fire was reported around 4pm on Saturday afternoon when a 911 caller reported flames at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church on Pocket Road. By the time firefighters arrived, more than half of the sanctuary was already engulfed in flames. Approximately 30 firefighters from five departments — Palmetto Rural, Darlington City, Darlington County, West Florence, and Windy Hill — worked to contain the blaze.
No preliminary cause has been released as the investigation continues. The Darlington County Sheriff’s Office is investigating and are being assisted by SLED and ATF, to determine what caused the blaze that consumed the 156-year-old church building.
Darlington Mayor Curtis Boyd emphasized the community's commitment to helping the church rebuild during his remarks at the news conference.
Brian Gandy, Executive Director of the Darlington Historical Commission and Museum, spoke about the church's deep historical roots and expressed confidence that the congregation's strong faith and traditions would see them through this difficult time.
Rev. Eugene Thomas, pastor of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, struck a defiant and hopeful tone as he addressed supporters, emphasizing that while the physical structure was lost, the church community remains intact.
Thomas said, "A church building may have burned, but the church did not, and the community is on fire (in support of Pleasant Grove).”
The pastor provided several ways for those wishing to help with rebuilding efforts. Donors can contact the church's head trustee through information available on the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church website, call Rev. Thomas directly at 843-260-9737, or visit any First Citizens Bank location to make a donation specifically designated for Pleasant Grove Baptist Church of Darlington. 
The morning's gathering demonstrated the strength of interfaith cooperation in Darlington County, as leaders from various religious backgrounds came together to support their neighbors in need. The community response reflects the deep ties that bind local congregations and residents, particularly in times of crisis.
As the investigation into the fire's cause continues, the focus for Pleasant Grove Baptist Church and its supporters has shifted toward the future and the work of rebuilding both the physical structure and continuing the ministry that has served the community for more than a century and a half.