Fire destroyed 92-year-old Holy Trinity Anglican church in Sooke, B.C., diocese of British Columbia, early on the morning of April 4.

Published reports said fire officials are investigating the cause of the blaze. They also said that the church's open structure and wooden construction allowed the fire to spread quickly.

Incumbent Rev. Harry Eerkes told reporters he hoped to save the cross and the church bell. While it is too early to have definite plans, he said, the church hopes to rebuild.

"We've lost the building and its contents, but we haven't lost the church. We are the church. And we are strong. From these ashes we will rise," said the message. Sooke is about 30 kilometres west of Victoria.