The Rev. Michael Swierz, pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Hubbard, said it was hard seeing the grieving faces of parish members Monday evening as they watched a fire cause more than $1 million in damage to the church.
The parish off North Main Street caught fire in the basement around 5:45 p.m. Monday as fire crews from several communities spent about five hours at the scene.
Hubbard Eagle Joint Fire District Chief Ron Stanish said an investigation is underway, but it is believed the fire began in a conference room area near the kitchen. He said the room is structurally unsafe after the fire and needs to be checked by an engineer before firefighters can go into the area to investigate.
“Right now the fire is under investigation. It will be some time for us to determine the cause of the fire,” he said.
Stanish said a few firefighters had minor injuries and bruises at the scene, but no major injuries were reported.