QUINCY, Fla.(WTXL) — One year ago today, a fire destroyed Faith Heritage Church in Quincy.
The church was built about a 150 years ago and many were hurt to see it go.
On January 2, 2019 less than 30 hours into the new year Faith Heritage Church in Quincy went up in flames.
"Extremely heartbreaking to see everything that people over the years worked so hard to build up. And then it's gone in a matter of 15- 20 years," said Pastor Paul Ladd.
Despite no longer having a roof to worship under Pastor Paul Ladd and his wife Pastor Melissa Ladd still held service every single Sunday of the year.
"We initially started with a tent out on the lawn. As weather got cooler, we decided to clean up our facilities. We've been meeting in a satellite building," said Pastor Melissa Ladd.
Exactly one year later with burnt wood still on the lawn the Ladd's made the first step towards restoration.
"We're finally talking with an architect to get the plans drawn out and move forward with this endeavor," said Pastor Paul.
An exciting start to 2020 after multiple tragedies struck the family in 2019 and put restoration plans for the church on hold.
"In the midst of trying to put our plans together for what we want to do, my husband Pastor Paul had a massive stroke on April 18. Two days later he developed Guillain-Barre and was on life support," said Pastor Melissa.
Pastor Paul Ladd stayed in hospitals in Tallahassee, Gainesville, and Jacksonville for most of the year.
Once he came home, he had to learn how to walk, grip, and do other basic functions all over again.
"The biggest support came from our king Jesus. Just giving us peace throughout everything that happened the past year," said Pastor Paul.
And now with renewed strength the Ladd's are ready to bring their vision for Faith Heritage for everyone in Gadsden County to enjoy.
"We want to build a facility to where they won't be afraid or intimidated to come in."
The Ladd's are looking to break ground on the new building in the early part of this year.
