In December 2007, Maple Springs Baptist Church was destroyed in a fire that was later confirmed arson.

Now, more than 15 months later, members of the congregation are watching their future home take shape on County Road 47 — but they are still about $200,000 away from moving in.

“We really believe God’s going to provide everything we need,” the Rev. Roland Davis, church pastor, said.

For those who believe God works through people, that very thing is happening. Volunteers assembled at the site Saturday to do electrical work and begin installing an air conditioning system. The next steps are insulation, sheetrock, bathrooms and a septic tank.

“We’re really excited about the number of people who are pitching in to help,” Davis said.

Davis expressed thanks to all that have donated time, efforts, materials, furnishings and finances. He thanked David and Ann Graves, and Earl Taylor individually for volunteering to wire the 6,400-square foot structure.

Monetary donations thus far have reached roughly $45,000.

Maple Springs has held its services in the old sanctuary of Samaria Baptist Church since the fire. The congregation has expressed continual thanks to the church for the use of their building but is anxious to go back home.

“We are ready to get back in the community so we can be more effective in outreach,” Davis said.

The total cost of replacing the church from the ground up comes to about $850,000, estimated Charles Andrews, member of the church’s building committee.

A fund is set up at Regions Bank under the name Maple Springs Baptist Church New Start for anyone who wishes to donate.