‘That’s the Temple of God!’: Hopewell neighbors stunned after flames take over Catholic Church leaving ‘extensive damage’

HOPEWELL, Va. (WRIC) — Worship arrangements are underway for parishioners at St. James the Greater Catholic Church after a fire broke out Wednesday evening leaving "extensive damage" to the church building.

"Oh man, it breaks my heart," said David Jones of Hopewell. "This is the Temple of God!"

According to Hopewell Fire and EMS, a swift response from fire officials was made to the church after a fire broke out at 9:41 p.m on Wednesday, May 14.

St. James the Greater Catholic Church in Hopewell catches fire

Crews arrived within four minutes to visible heavy smoke and flames which were then suppressed by fire tactics to bring the fire under control.

Assistance efforts were requested from Chesterfield County Fire and EMS and Colonial Heights Fire and EMS who assisted on scene with firefighting efforts and fire investigations.

According to authorities, no one was inside the building at the time of the incidents and no injuries were reported.

8News spoke with a father of five, Caleb Jackson, who lives on the street over from where the fire occurred.

"It's definitely nerve wracking because with a family, you know, I want to make sure everything's safe with them," Jackson said. "For the church community is definitely devastating. I'm curious to actually know what happened.

Officials told 8News the cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the City of Hopewell Fire Marshal's Office.

Bishop Barry C. Knestout of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond released this statement in response to the incident:

“Late last night, I received word that a fire had occurred at St. James the Greater Church in Hopewell. Firefighters worked quickly to control the blaze and limit the damage. Fortunately, the building was unoccupied and no one was harmed in the incident. I am grateful to the firefighters and other first responders from Hopewell, Chesterfield and Colonial Heights for their swift response in controlling the fire. My prayers are with the pastor, his staff, and the parishioners of St. James the Greater during this difficult time. In the days and weeks ahead, the diocese will do all it can to support the parish community in rebuilding, while maintaining an uninterrupted worship experience for the faithful.” Bishop Barry C. Knestout, Catholic Diocese of Richmond

8News asked the Diocese when mass services will resume and were told the pastor continues to make arrangements but "the diocese is committed to making sure there is continuity in worship for the parishioners."

Stick with 8News for updates, this is a developing story.