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.”