Fire breaks out at Tampa church

TAMPA (FOX 13) - A gloomy Sunday reflected the outward appearance of Faith Lutheran Church in Tampa, but not the spirit of its congregation or the faith of the Reverend Dr. Russell Meyer. 

"The church is people. The church is love. The church is community, church is service to God and neighbor so none of that has been harmed," the Reverend explained. 

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue crews were called to the church early Sunday morning by a passerby who saw the flames. 

The damage was mostly contained to the sanctuary, and the attached library where investigators believe the fire started.  No one was injured by the fire.

Skylights that ran the length of the church building melted from the heat, leaving the sanctuary open to the elements. 

"So we'll have more damage that accumulates because of the weather," said Reverend Meyer. 

The congregation was forced to move their morning worship service to a neighboring building, their Fellowship Hall. 

"One of the places where our faith as Christians really shines is in the moments of disaster," Reverend Meyer added. 

It could be several months before the congregation is able to worship in the sanctuary again. 

The fire is still under investigation, but officials believe the cause is linked to the church's electrical wiring.