Fire pours out of Schroon Lake Community Church Wednesday afternoon. (Photo provided by the Press-Republican)

Fire ravaged Schroon Lake Community Church, despite the efforts of multiple fire departments.

Schroon Lake Volunteer Fire Department was sent to the church, located at 1086 Route 9, around 3:15 p.m., along with Ticonderoga and Chilson fire departments.

The building was engulfed in flames Wednesday afternoon, and thick black smoke billowed into the air.

Firefighters swarmed the streets around the church, aiming water at the flaming structure.

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“Intense”

“The heat is intense,” said Tonya W. Condon, who was standing across the street as the building burned.

“Very emotional. Many fire departments on scene now.”

She said firefighters were also blasting water on the building next door to the church, trying to keep it from catching on fire.

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Recently renovated

The church, which was established in 1948, was renovated this winter.

Volunteers removed the pews, painted the walls, polished the wood floors, replaced the carpet and put the pews back in place.

A video on the church’s website shows the renovations in action.

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“Open hearts”

The site describes the church as one of the leading houses of worship in the Schroon Lake area, featuring an inclusive, creative and outgoing congregation “with open hearts and minds to serve others.

“Our membership is active in reading scripture, using music and sharing talent to make our worship time together more meaningful. Fellowship and hospitality are key to our mission to each other.”

The website describes the church’s pastor, Lynnette Cole, as a “truly inspirational speaker, theologically wise beyond her years.”

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Mutual aid

Mutual aid was provided by North Hudson, Chilson, Ticonderoga and Crown Point.

Horicon, Chestertown, Pottersville and Warrensburg all responded from Warren County, as well.

Mineville stood by at North Hudson’s station, and Putnam stood by at Ticonderoga’s.

The Essex County Sheriff’s Department and State Police were on site for crowd and traffic control.

It was unclear Wednesday evening how much damage the facility suffered, as firefighters were still tied up at the site.