By Associated Press
Gainesville, AL – More than two-hundred and fifty members and visitors of Spring Valley Baptist Church in Sumter County attended a rededication Sunday. It was one of a group of churches damaged or destroyed by arsonists earlier this year. The church was set on fire February seventh and the building's interior had to be completely restored. The Reverend Glenn Harris, Spring Valley's pastor for 22 years, said good things come from troubling times. He said 19 new members joined the church while it met in Epes during restoration. Harris is also proud that a member, 18-year-old Demetrius Foy, was offered a scholarship to Birmingham Southern College where he is a freshman majoring in religious studies. Ron Hutchins, Foy's father and deacon at Spring Valley, said forgiving the arsonists has been important to the congregation. He said members worshipped outside of their church building seven months and ten days.