A CONGREGATION whose base was devastated by fire has found a new temporary home thanks to another church.

The Seventh Day Adventist Church in Northview Drive, Westcliff, was the subject of a suspected arson attack in the early hours of Monday morning with the rear of the building being completely burnt out.

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But now its 122 members have been offered the use of the Chalkwell Park Methodist Church, in Kingsway for services for the forseeable future.

The Adventist movement believes that Saturday is the Sabbath day.

A statement from minister Pastor Trevor Thomas said: “I would like to express my sincere thanks and gratitude for your prayers, best wishes, support, and encouragement following the fire which took place early Monday at our church.

“A special thanks goes to councillor Paul Collins, the Westcliff Community Association, and Love Southend fellowship of churches, for their help to find a venue for us to worship in this Saturday Sabbath.

“We are very pleased that we now have an arrangement with Chalkwell Park Methodist Church for us to meet this Saturday Sabbath, and would like to thank Rev Diane Smith, Laurie Ward, and Tina, for opening their door and their hearts to us.”

He added: “Even in the middle of tragedy God is still God and we believe that He is more than able to bring good out of a bad situation.

“Please feel welcomed to join us for our Family Worship this Saturday Sabbath from 11.30-12.30.”

The cost of the damage to the building has not yet been assessed.

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Police believe that the fire, which started at 4.10am and came close to spreading to nearby properties, was started deliberately.

Anyone with information about the blaze is asked to contact DC Mike Buckingham at Southend Police Station on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.