He received an unexpected call.
Pastor Robert Jeffress revealed that former President Donald Trump reached out to him following the fire that destroyed the historic sanctuary of First Baptist Dallas. The sanctuary, which had been a significant site visited by presidents such as Woodrow Wilson, Gerald Ford, and George H. W. Bush, caught fire around 6 p.m. Central time on Friday. Despite the tragic loss, Jeffress clarified that he did not believe the fire was connected to his vocal support for Trump.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by fire officials, the ATF, and the FBI. Interim Fire Chief Justin Ball noted that the fire might have originated in the basement and spread to the second floor, where firefighters first encountered the blaze. Thankfully, there were no casualties, although the fire was severe enough to require the response of approximately 100 firefighters.
The church had recently concluded its Vacation Bible School, attended by 2,000 children, using parts of the historic sanctuary. Jeffress emphasized the church’s resilience, stating that the community would not be defined by the loss of the building, but rather by the people who worship there. The church announced that Sunday worship services would be moved to the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center due to smoke damage in the newer areas of the church.
The fire department informed the church that the remains of the historic building, constructed in 1890, would need to be demolished due to structural concerns. Jeffress shared personal memories tied to the sanctuary, including his baptism and ordination, and expressed gratitude for the safety of the congregation.
In the wake of the fire, notable figures like U.S. Senator Ted Cruz and others extended their prayers and support to First Baptist Dallas. The church’s rich history, including ties to evangelist Billy Graham and long-serving pastors George W. Truett and W.A. Criswell, underscores the significance of the loss, but the community remains hopeful and united in their faith.