Leaders of Action Ministries Athens are vowing to continue to serve the people of Athens-Clarke County in the wake of a fire that damaged Oconee Street United Methodist Church.

The fire Monday night severely damaged the church, which has been home to the group's Our Daily Bread program that serves food to the needy.

Erin Barger is the executive director of Action Ministries Athens. She says the group has already seen a "tremendous outpouring of community support." Athens First Baptist will be the interim host for noon meals under the Our Daily Bread program.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Pastor Lisa Caine tells the Athens Banner-Herald the church will be rebuilt and holds out hope that its 140-year-old altar can be saved.

Tags: fire, Athens, Action Ministries, meals, historic church