There was a fire early this morning at Mt. Olivet Methodist Church, the oldest church site in continuous use in Arlington.
The fire broke out at the church, located at 1500 N. Glebe Road near Ballston, before 3 a.m. and prompted a two-alarm response. Flames could be seen coming from the roof of the building, according to scanner traffic.
“The fire began in the attic above the music and education wing. Thankfully no one was in the building and there are no injuries,” the church said in an update posted by its pastor this morning. “There is likely extensive smoke and water damage to that part of the building. The sanctuary and preschool wings were not harmed.”
Sunday morning worship will not be held in the building but the church says it is working on an alternate plan.
The Arlington County Fire Department is currently investigating the cause of the blaze, which was extinguished by firefighters before it could spread to other parts of the building.
2-ALARM CHURCH FIRE (2:43 a.m.)— Mount Olivet United Methodist Church, 1500 North Glebe Rd in Arlington Co. Fire showing from roof. Firefighters are getting at the fire now. @ARLnowDOTcom pic.twitter.com/XH8AXB8NyG
— Alan Henney (@alanhenney) October 14, 2022
#UPDATE – Crews are in the process of removing debris from the structure and our Fire Prevention Office remains on scene to conduct their cause and origin investigation. No injuries to civilians or firefighters.
— Arlington Fire & EMS (@ArlingtonVaFD) October 14, 2022
The full update from the church is below.
Dear Mount Olivet Family,
You have likely heard the news of a fire at Mount Olivet early this morning, Friday, October 14.
The fire began in the attic above the music and education wing. Thankfully no one was in the building and there are no injuries.
Thanks to many fire fighters and first responders from Arlington, Fairfax, and Falls Church, the fire has been extinguished.
There is likely extensive smoke and water damage to that part of the building. The sanctuary and preschool wings were not harmed.
Due to the ongoing nature of this situation, we will not be able to hold worship in our building this Sunday morning. Once we know what our plan will be for Sunday morning worship and beyond, we will let you know!
Currently, the building is not secure and the fire investigation is on going. Please do not enter the building until further notice.
We are beyond grateful that no one was injured and this was no worse than it is, but we still ask that you be in prayer for our community, clergy, and staff as we navigate the following days and weeks.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Sara
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