Investigation launched as much-loved Donegal church gutted by fire
Stephen Maguire
An investigation has been launched after a much-loved Co Donegal church was gutted in an overnight fire.
Firefighters and the emergency services fought gallantly to save St Mary's Church in Derrybeg overnight.
The blaze broke out at around 4am. Despite the efforts of the emergency services the building was left gutted.
Nobody was injure din the huge blaze which could be seen for miles around.
The Church was officially blessed on its opening in 1972 by then Bishop of Raphoe Dr McFeely.
The octagonal-shaped building was designed by architects Patrick Carr and Partners from Ballybofey and built by Joesph McMenamin and sons, also from Ballybofey.
Monsignor Kevin Gillespie, Diocesan Administrator of the Raphoe Diocese, ceelbrated his first mass in the church.
He said he is "heartbroken" by the news of the fire.
He said "I am heart broken to learn of the destruction by fire this morning of Séipéal Mhuire, na Doirí Beaga, the parish church for the parish of Gaoth Dobhair.
"I wish to express my support to Fr Briain Ó Fearraigh, Parish Priest, who has the full support of the community as he faces this Challenge. I join with him in thanking the personnel of the Fire Brigade both in Gaoth Dobhair and from near and far in the county who did their very best to save the building.
"We are grateful to An Garda Síochána who must now lead the necessary investigations. I think of Fr Brendan Ward, CC, and the many priests who have served this church and for whom it is their native parish, myself included.
"And I think of all the people of Gaoth Dobhair at home and away who will receive this news with great sadness. Séipéal Mhuire has served the parish since 1972, and it is here that the most significant moments of the life of the parish are marked.
"With God’s help, with our Lady’s intercession, with the support of the community and the hard work of the clergy, a new parish church will rise again in one form or another. In the meantime, the life of faith will continue and will guide and sustain the parish of Gaoth Dobhair."
