COLUMBUS, Ohio -- The members of St. Dominic's Catholic Church, whose windows and doors were damaged after an explosion last Friday, held masses at Holy Rosary & St. John's Church, where their pastor also serves.
"We haven't lost any of our spirituality," said Jo Alexander, a lifelong member of the church. "Our faith is still strong."
A home on North 20th Street that sits across from St. Dominic's sanctuary exploded Friday. A preliminary investigation determined that a gas leak involving scrappers taking metal from the house caused the explosion.
"I was a little worried because I know the neighborhood," said Alexander. "And, I grew up in that neighborhood."
Father Joshua Wagner arrived to the scene just moments after the explosion occurred.
"The last thing you want to see as a pastor is driving up to the church and there's 12 firetrucks surrounded and police cars," said Father Wagner. "It was like, what's going on? Is somebody hurt? Is the church OK? Those are my questions."
Two people were injured inside the home but there were no other injuries. Wagner says he is now speaking a message of hope and restoration to his parishioners.
"I think people are feeling shocked and I think they're sad," said Father Wagner. "I think they are hopeful, however, because St. Dominic's is full of great people."
Father Wagner hopes to hold masses in the church next week. He says it will take 6 to 12 months for the stain glass windows to be repaired, however, the church can worship with boarded windows.