LIGHTNING DURING SERVICE IN CHURCH.

Kumara Times, Issue 2114, 8 June 1883, Page 2

LIGHTNING DURING SERVICE IN CHURCH.

♦ The Cape Argus describes a terrible scene in a- church at Hope Town on February 26th, when the building was struck by lightning, one man killed, and several persons injured. The wind was blowing rather hard, and some heavy-looking clouds were passing over the village, when, without the least sign or warning, the lightning struck the western gable of the Dutch Reformed Church, and penetrated the building. Service was being held by the Rev. G. Scholtz, and it was while the second hymn was being sung that the lightning descended. The fluid struck all over the inside of the building. John Muller, for many years the village blacksmith, was struck on the chest aud killed on the spot, his hymn-book being hurled some distance away. Mrs Badenhorst, a farmer's wife, was struck on her hat, which was instantly in flames. A daughter of Mr C. du Toit was also badly injured. About 24 persons sitting in different portions of the church had their clothes singed by the lightning and suffered temporarily from paralysis. Most had to be removed from the building to their homes in carts. The consternation in church was terrible. The reverend preacher appealed to the congregation to keep their seats, fearing that a rush to the doors would result, and many be crushed to death. He quietly descended from pulpit, and was one of the foremost in rendering all possible aid. The crash of thunder was terrific. What is very strange is that no rain fell, either before or shortly afterwards—only a single thunderbolt and the mischief was done.