HOOPER, Neb. (AP) — The congregation of St. Paul Lutheran Church in rural eastern Nebraska is grateful most of their church survived a strong storm last week.

Winds over 60 mph toppled the church’s steeple and bell tower last Tuesday, but fortunately the structure fell into the church’s parking lot.

The sanctuary and the rest of the church’s interior was spared.

Longtime church member Molly Brockemeier says she’s grateful the steeple fell away from the rest of the church.

Church council member Todd Meyer says he’s sure the church will rebuild, but it will be a question of how tall the new steeple might be and how quickly it can be built.

In the meantime, the 200-member congregation should be able to continue using the 114-year-old church building.