By Pat Culverhouse

A pair of Sunday structure fires, including one which caused extensive internal damage to a church in Doyline, had local firefighters busy.

Firefighters from Webster Parish Fire Dist. 3 in Doyline, along with assistance from the Sibley volunteer fire department, were able to contain an early Sunday morning fire to the sanctuary at Lighthouse Doyline, formerly known as Point Chapel Church on Fuller Rd. near Amos Cutoff.

According to Dist. 3 officials, quick response and teamwork kept the blaze from spreading beyond the main church building. No injuries were reported, and no cause has been determined. State fire marshals reportedly are investigating.

Although damage to the sanctuary was severe, services reportedly will continue in the church’s fellowship hall which was undamaged.

Later Sunday afternoon, Minden firefighters made quick work of a fire which officials believe began in the kitchen area of a residence in the 100 block of Bridwell.

Fire Chief Brian Williams said the residents were not at home when firefighters responded, but three furry occupants were inside and apparently very happy to see someone open the doors.

“We were greeted by three dogs who left in a big hurry as we entered the dwelling,” said Fire Chief Brian Williams. “They nearly knocked over a couple of our guys who were heading inside.”

After a brief chase, firefighters were able to retrieve two of the animals but were unable to convince the third, a medium-sized, tan-colored female hound, that it was safe to return.

Williams said the cause of the fire is unknown at this time, but damage was minimal. Firefighters remained on scene to check for hotspots and to deploy large fans to help evacuate smoke.