Many across the diocese will already be aware that St Andrew's Church in Jarrom Street, Leicester, was affected by a devastating fire last week, which caused significant damage to the church roof and everything inside.
No one was harmed in the incident, and Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service did an outstanding job responding to the fire. Their support continues to be greatly appreciated.
While the impact of the fire has been considerable, the days that have followed have demonstrated the strength, hospitality and generosity of the local community and wider diocese.
Churches have come together in support, and people of different denominations and faiths across the city have reached out with compassion and solidarity, recognising the significant role St Andrew’s plays in the life of its community and diocese.
St Andrew’s are incredibly grateful for this support and the kindness shown from those who turned up on mass to mop, sweep, help clean furniture and clear the church hall on Saturday, making it ready for worship. Regular services have resumed - St Andrew’s is very much open as usual.
The community are resilient and faithful, so we put our trust in God as we find ways to support and enable the church to continue its mission and ministry in the city.
Please pray for St Andrew’s as they begin the process of recovery and look to the future with hope.
The financial and practical considerations in such an incident are vast. With the church car park unavailable for community use, and the hall being used for worship and service, normal operations have been affected. A plan to rebuild is the next step but this will understandably be a long process.
A fundraising page has been set up by the church. Details of St Andrew’s Fire Recovery Fund can be found here: https://givealittle.co/c/standrewsfirerecoveryfund
