Bishop Issues Statement Following Alleged Arson at St. Edwards Catholic Church

(KNSI) — The Bishop of the Diocese of St. Cloud has issued a statement following a fire at a church Tuesday afternoon.

The Morrison County Sheriff’s Office says fire crews were called to St. Edwards Catholic Church in Elmdale at about 5:40 for a report of smoke coming from the rear of the building. The Upsala and Bowlus Fire Departments worked to keep the flames from spreading throughout the church building.

In a statement emailed to KNSI News from the Diocese, Bishop Patrick Neary says, “I was sorry to learn of the fire that occurred in the sacristy of St. Edward’s Catholic Church in Elmdale on Tuesday. Thankfully, the fire damage was limited to the church sacristy, although the church interior did experience smoke damage. The fire was apparently set intentionally and is under investigation by the authorities. Our prayers are with the pastor, Fr. Jimmy Joseph, and the parishioners of St. Edward’s. On behalf of the Diocese of St. Cloud, I’m grateful to Fr. Jimmy Joseph and the first responders for managing this situation so well.”

A 12-year-old boy is being investigated in connection to the blaze.

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