Oconomowoc -

Yesterday morning, members of First Baptist Church in Oconomowoc gathered together at the Oconomowoc Public Library, where they worshiped and gave thanks.

The old church bell was replaced with a hand bell, but the bell still rang and with that, the service began.  Rev. Sam Brink thanked members of the community for their support.

"We cannot express the support we have felt from the community," said Brink.  "We know that you care.  We want to say thank you to the community as a whole."

Members were thankful that no lives were lost in last Wednesday's explosion and said they had a lot to be thankful for.

See full story tomorrow in the Oconomowoc Focus.

City of Oconomowoc- Preliminary damage estimates of approximately $1 million have been established in the explosion and fire that leveled a historic downtown Oconomowoc church and a house immediately to the south of it. A second residence located to west of the church was also significantly damaged.

The nearly 100-year-old First Baptist Church of Oconomowoc, 301 Wisconsin Ave., was enveloped in flames moments after an explosion was heard just before 1:30 p.m.ysterday at the intersection of Worthington Street and Wisconsin Avenue.

"The exact cause of the investigation is still under investiogation by a multi-jurisdictional task force who will continue to conduct interviews with all those involved," said Bob Duffy, who is acting as the Public Information Officer for the City of Oconomowoc.

Seven people were injured in the accident. Six were treated for minor injuries and released. One worker, who was transferred to Froedtert Hospital in Wauwatosa by Flight for Life, is reported to be in satisfactory condition.

UPDATE: City of Oconomowoc- Members of the church board  at First Baptist Church in Oconomwooc will meet this afternoon to discuss next steps following the explosion that destroyed their church and two adjacent church-owned residences.

The blast occured just before 1:30 p.m.on Wednesday when it is believed a gas main was struck during the Wisconain Avenue road construciton project. The explosion was followed by a fire that engulfed the nealy 100-year-old landmark church and the properties located to the south and west of the church. Seven people were reported injured as a result of the accident which is currently under investigation

 Presently, the 35-member congregation is planning on holding services in a parishioner's home this week.

"The churches of Oconomowoc have been more than generous in offering support and places to worship, but we haven't had a chance to meet yet," said church board memebr Carroll Radke.