IRVINGTON, Ala. — More than two years after flames gutted its main sanctuary, a south Mobile County congregation is officially moving ahead with a fresh start — and a new name. The church formerly known by several names across its long history in the bayou community unveiled rebuilding plans Sunday under its new identity: Forward Church.
An April 2017 fire left the sanctuary a smoking shell, and the old building’s foundation is still visible in the parking lot. Since then, the congregation of more than 200 members has kept worshipping without interruption, holding services and church functions in its gym.
‘From a fire on Thursday to church on Sunday’
Longtime members say the church remains a vital part of the community, and that its spirit never wavered after the blaze. “We went from a fire on Thursday to church on Sunday and never stopped giving God the glory,” said Rosa Zirlott, a longtime member. Cassie Driver, the pastor’s wife, called the unveiling significant both for newcomers like her family and for members who have attended their entire lives.
Lead Pastor Justin Driver said the past two and a half years have been about healing as much as construction. “We understood this church had to go through a healing process and it took time,” he said. “I feel we’re at a place where we move forward together.”
The congregation hopes to break ground on the new building next month, with a finished structure possible sometime next year.