The Central Congregational Church was severely damaged after a four-alarm blaze ripped through the antique structure Monday morning but firefighters managed to save several artifacts, the altar cross and the old Bible used for every service.  A two-story pipe organ  was lost in the blaze.  The Rev. Bruce D. Smith said the “white lace balcony” made of a rare bog iron survived, “it looks OK.” Also rescued was a document that hangs in the sanctuary, tracing the heritage of the church back to the Mayflower.

Entire story and accompanying video can be found on EnterpriseNews.com. Click here for an updated story in May 27, 2009 issue of the Brockton Enterprise.

The nearby Central Baptist Church will serve as a temporary worship site for members of the Central Congregational Church, which was damaged in a Memorial Day fire. The Rev. Roger Haber on Tuesday invited the Congregationalists to use the Christian Life Center on Nickerson Avenue, and the Rev. Bruce Smith of Central Congregational said he will lead services this Sunday at 10 a.m.