‘Hallelujah’: The Promise Land Baptist Church reopens after devastating fire

AMELIA COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- More than a year after a devastating fire reduced it to ashes, Promise Land Baptist Church in Amelia County has reopened its doors, welcoming back worshippers with a powerful service of faith, gratitude and renewal.

The sanctuary was packed with members of the congregation and residents from across the county who came together to witness this moment of triumph. The joyous atmosphere was filled with singing, prayer and a deep sense of appreciation for the resilience and unity that brought the church back to life.

The road to reopening has been long and challenging. On Dec. 5, 2023, a massive fire swept through the church on Winterham Road, leaving behind only rubble and heartbreak. For many congregation members, the loss was deeply personal—Promise Land Baptist Church had been a cornerstone of faith and fellowship for generations.

Roger Booker, a trustee of the church, recalled the heartbreak of seeing the church destroyed but said the congregation never lost hope.

“It feels so wonderful, you just want to jump up and say, ‘Hallelujah’ for joy because God put the joy in our hearts and blessed us with this sanctuary,” Booker said.

Determined to rebuild, church leaders and community members came together, raising funds and gathering support to restore their place of worship. It took months of dedication, hard work, and the generosity of neighbors—both near and far—to bring the church back to its former glory.

For many who attended Saturday's reopening service, the moment was more than just a return to the church—it was a symbol of resilience and faith in action.

Lifelong Amelia resident Florence Wade said she was overwhelmed with gratitude, reflecting on the kindness and support the congregation received throughout the rebuilding process.

“I can't seem to find the words to express my joy and appreciation for God first of all, and all the neighbors and friends far and near,” Wade said.

As the congregation sang hymns and filled the newly rebuilt sanctuary with praise, it was clear that Promise Land Baptist Church had not just been reconstructed—it had been reborn.

With the doors now open, church leaders say they are focused on the future. Booker hopes the reopening will further strengthen the community and inspire new members to join in worship.

“I hope it will bring a lot of Christian folks together so we can communicate and worship the Lord because we’re all God’s children,” he said.

As the service came to a close, many reflected on the journey that led them to this day. Though the fire had taken their building, it had not shaken their faith. Instead, it reinforced their commitment to one another, proving that the spirit of the church was never confined to four walls—it lived in the hearts of its people.

For the congregation of Promise Land Baptist Church, this reopening was not just a return—it was a new beginning.