Blaze destroys church in Springfield Township

SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP, Pa. -- Firefighters spent Monday evening battling a blaze that broke out a church in Springfield Township, Fayette County.

When Channel 11 News arrived at the scene, thick, black smoke could be seen pouring from the doors and windows of Mill Run Church.

Firefighters said the church was too unstable to fight the blaze from the inside.  While battling the flames, the roof collapsed.

“There's a lot of history, a lot of memories in the building,” said the Rev. Randy Newell. “But as I've shared and prayed with many of my congregation here this evening, the building may burn down but you cannot destroy the church."

Throughout the day Tuesday, church members stopped by to take a look at the damage.

 "I didn't know what to think. I felt terrible," said long time parishioner Donnie May.

The pastor said he thinks the fire was accidental. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

No injuries were reported.

Newell said the church will be rebuilt.