7/25/2016 4:15:00 PM

CHICAGO – Members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) are offering prayers for the congregation of Hawk Creek Lutheran Church near Sacred Heart, Minn., whose church suffered major damage in a fire July 23. The fire, which destroyed much of the sanctuary of the 136-year-old building, broke out after the church was struck by lightning.

The Rev. Daniel L. Bowman, pastor of Hawk Creek, said that although members are devastated by the loss, they are reminded of Jesus’ resurrection and healing. Bowman said the church is being brought to life again through “the response of the community – the prayers, support and encouragement.”

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