Even as firefighters were putting out the last of the blaze that destroyed their sanctuary Sunday afternoon, the members of the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church were next door, planning how to help others during the Christmas season.

About 3:30 p.m., firefighters were called to the church, just off U.S. 29 between Blacksburg and Gaffney.

Investigators said that they don't know what started the fire, but believe it started in the ceiling of the church, just a few hours after Sunday morning services.

Flames burned through parts of the roof and blew out most of the windows in the sanctuary.

Firefighters from Blacksburg, Gaffney, the CKC Fire District and the Antioch Fire District responded.

Investigators said that they believe the fire was accidental, but the State Law Enforcement Division is routinely called in to all church fires.

The church was founded in 1911 and currently has 87 members, church officials said.

The building had undergone several remodeling projects over the past three years, members said, adding that it is insured.

Services will continue on the church's activity center next door.

While the firefighters were working what was left of the sanctuary, church members were carrying on with the business of the congregation Sunday evening, collecting donations for the homebound, planning an upcoming musical service, a caroling excursion and a Christmas Eve program.