Firefighters rushed to Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hatfield Borough early Saturday morning.
The call was very personal to them. Some of them worshipped in the sanctuary now being decimated by an inferno.
The fire ripped apart the former sanctuary, that dates back to 1904. The old sanctuary was used as a daycare and other church events.
The new sanctuary was not damaged by the fire.
Mayor Robert Kaler is a life member of the church.
"There is a lot of memories in the church. It's just tough. I've seen the ups and downs, the trials and tribulations in the past."
Kaler used to served several years on the church council, some of them as president.
Nancy Sellers has worshipped at the church for more than a half century.
"I couldn't believe it... it's just unbelievable," she said fighting back tears.
Church leaders say they will hold Sunday services in the regular house of worship, if the electric is working properly.
No injuries were reported by medics.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
