LONG LAKE, Minn.--Two years after fire destroyed St. Edward the Confessor Episcopal Church, the congregation laid a new foundation using the original stone from Westminster Abbey that once formed the floor at St. Edward.

According to Sun Newspapers, the church's pastor, the Rev. Judy Hoover, was overwhelmed with grief at the fire as it came only a week after the death of her husband.

"Bewilderment. I suppose that would be the word to describe it," said Hoover. "It took some time to discern with the congregation how to proceed. We knew we were going to rebuild. We just didn't know what steps to take first."

Two years later, a ceremony with the salvaged stone was a heartfelt new beginning for Hoover and the congregation. "It was emotional, not in the sense of tears, but excitement. We're overjoyed," said Hoover.

The new building will cost about $1.5 million. The congregation has $1 million already in the bank and plans to raise the additional funds.

The building will be noticeably different architecturally. There will be more functional features, including handicapped accessibility. There will also be a labyrinth built into the floor to be used as a spiritual walkway.

Hoover explained, "It's considered a form of spirituality, centeredness, a way for people to get in touch with themselves. We're really excited about it. And once the building is open anyone can come in and walk the labyrinth."

The building may be complete by late fall. Meanwhile, the congregation meets every Sunday at Wayzata Community Church, where they've been meeting since the day of the fire.

"There's tremendous enthusiasm for the new church," said Hoover. "We're excited and inspired with the help of the Holy Spirit through this process."

Lightning was initially thought to have caused the fire that destroyed St. Edward's. It was later declared arson.

Three teenagers were sentenced in 2002 for starting the fire. Victor Rivas, 18, Plymouth; Jeffrey Kaitz, 19, Corcoran; and Keith Goslin, 19, Plymouth, a member of the church; were sentenced to the workhouse, in addition to community service and probation. They were also required to pay restitution.