Just hours after a beloved parish principle was laid to rest, parishioners congregated once more.

"We're all gathering around here because we're all in disbelief," Parishioner Elaine Crosby said. "We've never had anything like this happen before."

This time, to watch fire engulf the back of the Queen of the Miraculous Medal church in Jackson Wednesday.

"We got a call of a possible boiler room fire at the Queen's church," Captain Michael Beyerstedt of the Jackson Fire Department said. "Upon our arrival ,we found heavy flames coming out the windows and heavy smoke."

But the Jackson Fire Department along with Leoni, Blackman, Summit and Spring Arbor townships have ruled out the boiler room as the cause.

"It started in the back two rooms," Beyerstedt said, "but we're still investigating."

The first sight of the fire was at the parish school. Someone looked out the window across the parking lot and saw flames billowing out the back church windows. They said they called 911 and within minutes firefighters were working to contain the fire.

"I sent my crew in to try to contain this fire," Beyerstedt said. "Because when we arrived, the fire hadn't spread to the sanctuary and our main goal was to save the church."

Their efforts proved positive. Firefighters worked well into the night, and kept the fire from reaching the sanctuary, but said there is extensive smoke and water damage throughout the building.

Parishioners said the building may have suffered damage, but their faith has not.

"We're a church, we're a parish," Crosby said. "It's not just about the building. We'll be alright."

Services are postponed indefinitely, which includes Christmas mass.

Capt. Beyerstedt said they have not yet concluded what started the fire. He estimates the damage to the church will be nearly $1 million.

Parishioners can call the parish office to find out where mass and services will be held temporarily. Just call 517-783-2748.