PHOENIX — Just weeks after losing their priest to a medical emergency, parishioners of St. Joseph Catholic Church also lost their place of worship.
Father Francis died after suffering a medical emergency on the church property earlier in April.
Overnight Wednesday, flames tore through his beloved place of worship. The church was about to celebrate their 50th anniversary this August.
Fire investigators say the building is a total loss. They say they are not dismissing any possible cause, but believe it may not have been intentionally set. They should know more information tomorrow after investigators are able to get closer to the site of the initial combustion.
Long-time parishioner Dana George said her church was a place of love and worship.
"Father Frank really was our spiritual leader. He had homilies that spoke to everyone," said the church-member of more than 20 years. "We're just here now to hold hands and be with the people we love.