"This church has been in the community for over 100 years, so this is a big shock,” said the Rev. Derek Harmon, Mt. Olive’s pastor.

A shocked passerby first saw flames around 10 a.m. scorching the steeple that meant the world to a close community.

"It's a smaller congregation that's been very faithful. Proportionally, they help so much. They do anything they can to make a difference in the world, and now's a time they may need some help,” said Harmon.

The fire started in the attic and firefighters believe a lightning strike may be to blame.

"Maybe it is a little bit easier, knowing it was just something that happened that we couldn't prevent,” the pastor said.

The flames touched each corner of the church but firefighters from four departments did save a piece of its history.

"They were able to save one of the old Bibles that's been in the church for many years, so we were very glad about that; also some of the portraits off the walls and those types of things,” said Harmon.

Now there's special concern for the living church, although their pastor say their strength to move on lies in their faith.

"They've weathered many storms. We've got some tough Missouri farm folk and they can keep going,” he said.

Harmon also serves the United Methodist Church in Billings. Mt. Olive's congregation of 20 may move there for a few Sundays, or permanently, depending on whether they rebuild.