Nearby: Pastor of Burned Church Thankful For Community Support

A fire that ripped through the inside of the St. Demetrios Greek Orthrodox Church in Merrick did not stop parishioners from worshiping on Sunday. 

Hundreds instead gathered for services under tents in the parking lot of the church, Father Nikiforos Fakinos, pastor of the Hewlett Avenue church, said. 

"It was very encouraging, motivating and inspiring that people came together as one to support the rebuilding of the church," he said.  

According the Nassau County Police, the fire started around 9:25 p.m. Friday from a lit candle inside the church.

The altar area inside the church suffered smoke and water damage, however, the total damage to the church is unknown at this time.

"There was extensive damage," Fakinos said. "It will be awhile because we have to regroup and restore." 

A website was recently created to raise funds to help repair the place of worship. More than $1,000 has been donated. 

Fakinos said that Sunday church services will continue to take place in the parking lot, as well as the church's programs. 

"As long as the weather permits, we will do this," he said. "The ministry has to continue."

St. Demetrios Greek Orthrodox Church opened in Merrick in 1984, according to its website. Fakinos has has been pastor of the church since 2002.

Fakinos said that the unity and faith of his parish will get the church through trying times. 

"We're holding it together," he said. "We will not stop."  

Matthew Hogan contributed to this report.