Watertown Fire Rescue was dispatched to a fire at Hosanna Lutheran Church shortly after 1:30 p.m. on May 19, 2025. When firefighters arrived, they observed visible flames coming from the roof ridge. Crews battled the blaze for approximately four and a half hours. The fire was difficult to access due to the heavy timber construction, high vaulted ceilings, and building components used for insulating the structure, crews also battled the weather with persistent rain, cold temps, and high winds. At the time of the fire, a thunderstorm was moving through Watertown, and the National Weather Service confirmed that a lightning strike had occurred in the area. Watertown Fire Rescue responded with Battalion 1, Engine 4, Engine 3, Ladder 1, and Medic 4. The church sanctuary has heavy damage to the roof and smoke and water damage throughout the church. Crews were assisted on scene by the Watertown Police Department, Codington County Emergency Management, Codington County Search and Rescue, and Watertown Municipal Utilities. At this time, the fire is still under investigation.