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Katie Maddocks/PA Wire
UK News

Pastor of Newport church that burnt down says they know God works for good

by Cara Bentley

Bethel Community Church was one of the victims of a suspected arson attack at the weekend and met outside on Sunday.

Pastor Andrew Cleverly told Premier: "We are very sad, very emotional. A lot of the congregation just gathered together in the car park opposite and just watched the church burn to the ground for five hours.

"We were stood there, we held hands, we prayed, we actually worshipped if you could believe that because even amongst the sadness there is a tinge of excitement that God has got a bigger plan for us all."

He added: "That verse from Romans says that all things work together for good for those that trust the Lord and when we say we 'all' we mean the good and the bad and so we believe that even what the enemy meant for evil God can turn it to our good and we celebrated and worshipped yesterday with all the community."

He explained how the police, the mayor and local businesses all turned up in the car park: "There was about 300 people...and the unity was incredible"

"We just feel that God has a plan."

He explained that although the church is currently now just four walls and that nearly everything inside is gone: "We trust in God that he knows what's he's doing"

"We will rebuild" Andrew said, explaining that could be on the same site or elsewhere.

This weekend they have been offered various locations from other churches and business and Andrew added he is very grateful to them and for everyone's prayers. 

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