Fire at 100-year-old church in New Jersey was set on purpose, police say

A New Jersey community is heartbroken after a man allegedly set their beloved church on fire.

Our Lady of the Lake in Verona represents a century of memories. Days after it was packed with parishioners on Easter Sunday, a fire damaged the pews and charred statues of Mary and Joseph.

“I don’t know how people can actually even think about it. This church has been here forever and it’s gorgeous,” said Julianna Thierry.

The Roman Catholic Church on Lakeside Avenue will commemorate a special milestone in May: the 100th anniversary of the first Mass at the original church before it expanded.

Read more: CBS News