Fundraiser launched after fire destroys church in Donegal
The Teach Pobail Mhuire in Doirí Beaga, a Catholic church in the Diocese of Raphoe, was gutted in an overnight fire on Easter Monday.
Gardaí assisted local fire services at the scene of the fire. A cordon was established and a number of nearby properties were evacuated while the fire was brought under control.
There were no injuries.
The scene has been preserved for technical examination, however, the technical examination has not yet been carried out.
'Enquiries are ongoing,' a Garda spokesperson added.
On Monday, Paróiste Ghaoth Dobhair posted an update on social media and said it will rebuild the church.
'Our beloved Church, St. Mary's in Derrybeg burned to the ground in the early hours of this morning.
"This is a deeply tragic event that strikes at the heart of our community. Our beautiful Church was not only a place of worship, but also a centre of light, life and love, of support, unity and hope for many.
"We are a resilient community and will stand together to support one another in this moment of deep grief and sorrow.
"We will rebuild our Church with a renewed hope for a brighter future.'
The parish also thanked the emergency services, Donegal County Council, the community of Gaoth Dobhair and members of An Garda Síochána who attended the scene for their support, professionalism and dedication.
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"I wish to express my deep gratitude to all the members of Gaoth Dobhair Fire Brigade Service, supported by colleagues from right across the County, for their untiring dedication and tireless service.
"To all members of An Garda Síochána who attended, for their professionalism and dedication. To Donegal County Council staff members for their selfless support and helping hand.
"And to the many members of this beautiful community in Gaoth Dobhair, and further afield who have offered help, assistance and sent messages of support and prayers,' the post read.
Meanwhile, a fundraiser has been set up with a €9,000 target and in just a number of hours, the target was reached and exceeded.
The fundraiser was set up by Coiste Forbartha Dhobair Cuideachta Faoi Theorainn Ráthaíochta and the money raised will go towards rebuilding the church.
The fundraiser reads, 'We are asking for your help to rebuild our Church with a renewed hope for a brighter future. Any support big or small is greatly appreciated.'
The fundraiser can be viewed here on the Go Fund Me Page.
Weekday 7pm Masses that were scheduled for St. Mary's Church, Derrybeg will now take at 7pm in the Church of St. Colmcille, Cnoc Fola.
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