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A Catholic church in Ohio that was built more than 100 years ago was devastated by a May 29 fire, leading a local fire department to declare the structure lost May 30.
Nearly 20 local fire departments worked together to put out the fire at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Maria Stein, Ohio, according to WHIOTV7. The cause of the fire at the historic church is unknown. WHIOTV7 reported that workers were re-shingling the roof when they saw smoke and called 911.
Dayton Daily News noted that the steeple and roof both collapsed, but no injuries have been reported.
“We tried our best but just couldn’t save this beautiful church,” the Chickasaw Volunteer Fire Department said in a Facebook post. “We would like to thank every department that provided assistance to this destructive fire, your help was greatly appreciated. We would also like to thank everyone that supplied drinking water and food for all the firefighters, we live in a great community and it really showed today, thanks everyone.”
WHIOTV7 reports that local residents were heartbroken by the loss of the church, which was built in 1891.
“It’s definitely hard to just stand and watch even though there’s not much else you can do,” said Brad Spettel, who lives near the church. “You feel a little bit helpless knowing this is the church I got married in and this was where two of my kids were baptized.”
Archbishop Robert Casey of Cincinnati also issued a statement May 29, telling the church’s parishioners that he was deeply saddened to learn of the fire.
“While the fire appears to have caused great damage, I am confident that the faith of this community remains strong,” Archbishop Casey wrote. “Please know that I am holding each of you in prayer during this time of sorrow and loss. I will remain united with you in prayer in the coming days, months and beyond. May Christ, our light in every darkness, bring each of you comfort, strength and peace.”
