One of the nuns at Nativity of the Theotokos monastery in Jefferson Township snaps a photograph Thursday while firefighters investigate a lightning strike and small fire at one of the buildings on the grounds.

JEFFERSON TWP — A fire started in the upper floor of the Nativity of the Theotokos monastery after it was struck by lightning during a severe thunderstorm Thursday afternoon.

The fire was in the main building on the property, which is both a church and the housing for the 14 nuns who live there, said Mother Thephamo, mother superior for the monastery.

Firefighters were able to put out the fire with minimal water, and fire damage was contained to one room and a hallway.

Water, smoke and fire damage to the building, which is fully insured, was estimated at $50,000 to $80,000, said Saxonburg Fire Chief Chris Ballina.

The lightning struck the building's roof above the kitchen, which caused a heating and cooling unit to start smoking and burning, Ballina said.

Fire units stayed on scene for more than two hours to clear the building of smoke. They also used thermal cameras to inspect the roof for any other hot spots caused by the lightning strike.

The nuns, who were at different locations around the property when the storm hit, reported hearing multiple, loud lightning strikes.

“It was a deluge, lightning everywhere,” Mother Thephamo said.

One nun, who was in the kitchen when the storm started, was thrown to the ground and had a popping sound in her ears. She was evaluated by Saxonburg EMS, but was OK, authorities said.

Sister Eupraxia said she called 911 after lifting a trapdoor to the attic and smelling smoke. They evacuated the building, only stopping to grab chalices and other consecrated items, she said.

Grateful for volunteer and professional firefighters and first responders who came to their aid, the sisters went around the building's grounds offering cold drinks and snacks to everyone.

The nuns declined an offer to have American Red Cross called for assistance. The property also has a two-bedroom house that is used as an art studio, which was not damaged.

Nativity of the Theotokos, located on St. Elias Lane off Golden City Road since 1989, is a Greek Orthodox monastery that is part of the Diocese of Pittsburgh. The nuns there range in age from 26 to 70.

Since it is the only Greek Orthodox monastery in the region, they are often visited by pilgrims who sometimes travel hundreds of miles to visit, said Sister Eupraxia.