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FDNY: Fire At Brooklyn Church Not Suspicious

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A fire that damaged part of a nearly century-old church in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn is not suspicious, according to the FDNY.

The blaze broke out around 1:40 a.m. Wednesday at the Mount Sinai Baptist Church in what members said is their fellowship hall.

The fire started on the first floor near the front door and was under control about 40 minutes later, CBS2's Andrea Grymes reported.

On Wednesday morning, the church pastor said he believed the blaze was suspicious.

"We try to make a positive impact on the community," Rev. Dr. Curtis L. Whitney said.

NYPD arson investigators and ATF police joined fire marshals on the scene trying to determine a cause. The FDNY later determined it was an accidental electrical fire.

After surveying the damage, Minister Gail Fleming was tearful, but full of hope.

"We're a loving church, and we're going to get in there, we're going to roll up our sleeves, get the paint hats, the nails, the hammers, have a little bit of food on the side, and we're going to whistle while we work," she said. "You come back here in six months, you won't recognize the place."

Church members are glad no one was injured and vow to rebuild.

"Just a tragedy. that's the only thing I can say," Deacon Arthur Jackson said. "Thank God that we're still alive and still going on. Nothing gonna stop us now."

"This church has been here for us and for the neighborhood," church trustee Gracie Fulton said. "It's very sad."

Church members said the sanctuary was not damaged in the fire and they will be able to worship there.

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