Paradise church survives the flames after most of the town burns down

The First Baptist Church of Paradist, California, managed to survive the devastating fire that has destroyed much of the town (Photo: Facebook)

A church in Paradise, northern California, is still standing after most of the town was devastated by the horrific Camp Fire.

The fire - the most destructive in the state's history - has killed at least 48 people and burned down 8,800 structures.

Harrowing video footage showed desperate residents praying to God to keep them safe as they tried to escape the flames.

In Paradise, where ABCNews reports that 'most of the community [is] gone', the First Baptist Church is miraculously still standing.

A picture taken on Sunday morning and posted to its Facebook page shows the church building intact as a cloud of smoke hovers nearby.

The church has been using Facebook to help locate people and confirm their wellbeing.

Another church close to First Baptist, Paradise Alliance Church, is also using Facebook to connect members of the congregation, who like most of the town have evacuated the area.

Lead Pastor Josh Gallagher said he was praying that God would use the church to bring revival after the devastation.

'God, give us Your comfort and allow us to grieve well,' he prayed in a recent Facebook Live.

News
CoE's interfaith bishop welcomes decision to bar Kanye West from Britain
CoE's interfaith bishop welcomes decision to bar Kanye West from Britain

The Bishop of Willesden said that cultural expression must "not amplify fear or legitimise prejudice".

Indian Supreme Court ruling could deprive 'untouchable' Christians of protections
Indian Supreme Court ruling could deprive 'untouchable' Christians of protections

An Indian Supreme Court ruling could deprive Christian converts from among the lowest castes access to affirmative action programmes and other benefits.

Trying to increase attendance is biggest challenge for church leaders
Trying to increase attendance is biggest challenge for church leaders

Other concerns including improving discipleship and engaging younger generations.

Christians demand Lebanon be included in ceasefire
Christians demand Lebanon be included in ceasefire

The exact terms of the ceasefire are unclear and disputed.