Cause of fire is undetermined by fire marshal
The official cause of the Hillsboro Mennonite Brethren Church fire has been listed as "undetermined" by the state's fire marshal office, said Steve Garrett, Hillsboro city administrator.
"Unless other information is uncovered, that will be the official cause," Garrett added.
The fire, which occurred March 7, destroyed the sanctuary, Christian education wing, and office buildings on the church campus.
The site was released March 11 by Hillsboro Fire Chief Ben Steketee to the church and insurance company.
Workers toppled the two end walls of the sanctuary March 11 to stabilize what remained of the burned structure.
The large stone and brick walls had been unstable following the fire which prevented some residents in the 100 block of South Lincoln, east side of the church property, to return to their homes.
Once the walls were razed, residents were able to return to their homes.
Church services were held Sunday morning in Brown Gymnasium with approximately 570 in attendance.
Office space is being provided by Tabor College for the church offices. Sunday school classes will resume Sunday.
Church officials met Tuesday evening with insurance representatives to discuss immediate concerns and rebuilding plans.
Darrell Driggers, chairman of the church's board of trustees, said structural engineers will be inspecting the building that once housed the chapel, Sunday school rooms, and offices.
The results of the inspection will determine the soundness of the building.
At press time, no decisions had been announced by Pastor Bruce Porter or church representatives regarding demolition or future construction.
