Fire damages roof of Good Shepherd church in Oak Park; building could be closed for months

Sept. 10--The Oak Park Fire Department "quickly" extinguished a fire Sept. 5 atop the roof of an Oak Park church, officials said.

According to village officials, the Oak Park Fire Department was called to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 611 Randolph St., at about 12:30 p.m. for a report of a fire on the roof of the building.

"Roofers working on the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church apparently started a fire with a propane torch," village spokesman David Powers said. "The fire was quickly extinguished by the fire department, and no injuries were reported."

The church's pastor, the Rev. Kathy Nolte, said the damage was significant, and the church building could be closed into 2019.

"There is extensive, but not horrible, damage," Nolte said. "The church is not habitable as it is damaged with water and smoke throughout. We are working with the insurance company to determine the extent."

According to the church's website, office equipment will be moved to First Baptist Church at 820 Ontario St. in Oak Park. A note on the website referred to First Baptist as "our temporary home."

Nolte praised first responders and church leaders.

"I am thankful no one was hurt, that the fire department responded quickly and that we have a responsive insurance company and possible restoration company," Nolte said. "I am particularly grateful that the council and church leaders have already stepped into action."

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