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A fire broke out at Christ the King Anglican Church in Ridgeland Park, New Providence, on the evening of Sunday, June 8th, shortly after Pentecost services had concluded. The fire, which was contained primarily to the sacristy, the former administration offices, and the community pantry, caused significant damage—but spared the sanctuary itself from direct flames. No injuries were reported.
According to the Venerable Dwight Rolle, rector of Christ the King, the fire was discovered by a server who returned to the church following Sunday mass. “When he opened the door, he was hit with smoke. The entire church—there was no visibility,” Rolle explained. “There was smoke coming out of the sacristy. We called the fire department, and they came in record time with three trucks. They managed to contain the fire before it spread further.”
The areas most affected include the sacristy where priests vest, the rear room where servers prepare for worship, and the old church office. The pantry, which supports members of the community in need, was completely destroyed. “Everything is destroyed in the pantry,” Rolle said. “We always say that disasters can sometimes push us forward. This [area] was part of our renovation plans, and perhaps this just speeds up the process.”
Though damage in the sanctuary was minimal, a layer of soot, sludge, and a persistent smoke odor now linger throughout the space. “There was nothing in the church itself apart from what the smoke left behind, ash on the floors, and a need for deep cleaning,” Rolle shared. “We are thankful to Almighty God. It could have been so much worse.”
The council is expected to meet by the end of the month to approve the next steps for repairs and reorganization. In the meantime, parishioners and volunteers have already begun cleanup efforts. Many gave up their Whit Monday holiday to help—an act Rolle described as a witness to the congregation’s faith.
As Christ the King marks its 60th year of dedication, this unexpected moment has become a catalyst for moving forward with much-needed restoration. The Archdeacon has called on the community for support.
“We need all hands on deck. Those who can assist by way of prayer or support—financial or otherwise—your help would mean a great deal,” he said.
How You Can Help:
1. Monetary Donations
Funds to aid the recovery effort may be contributed via direct deposit:
Bank: Scotiabank Bahamas Limited (Main Branch)
Account Name: The Parish of Christ the King
Transit No.: 70045
Account No.: 14818 (Chequing)
Email Receipt to: christthekingfinanceministry@gmail.com
2. Pantry Support
The most immediate loss is the church’s pantry. Donations of non-perishable food items can be brought to the parish office during normal working hours.
As the church moves forward, the Anglican Diocese invites continued prayers and support from all corners of the Bahamian community and beyond. In the words of Rev’d Rolle: “We remain hopeful—and we press on.”
