SMITHVILLE – Nearly two years after fire leveled the First Presbyterian Church in Smithville, members of the congregation showed eagerness to move forward when a ceremonial ground breaking for a new church building was held Saturday.

Construction of a new church is well underway. Excavators began the initial work weeks ago and the foundation is nearly finished. Though fire destroyed the 80-year-old church that once stood on site, and another in the same location burned prior to that, church members say they’re keeping positive about a new building.

“Members of the church have literally risen from the ashes,” said Reverend Barbara Schwartz, a Presbyterian minister who regularly fills in at the pulpit. “If any good can come of a fire, this is it.”

Following the August 2010 blaze, community volunteers and organizations helped clean up the wreckage. Since then, they’ve showed support through fundraising efforts to build anew. The building architect donated time toward the project and the Smithville area Junior Grange Club has also chipped in, raising money and volunteer hours in the community. Even a few motorists passing through Smithville have been generous in giving money toward the project, noted longtime congregation member Marie Kehl.