The Deacon's Bench
A deacon from Belleville, Illinois sent me the pictures below — before and after shots of St. Joseph Church, in Ridgeway, struck by a twister on February 29th.
You can read details here.
The deacon wrote:
You will notice the Italian marble altar that was miraculously spared. Work is underway to salvage the altar by first protecting it from the elements, and then having it dismantled piece by piece. Thankfully, the parish priest (administrator) Father Steve Beatty, who lives in the rectory next to the church, escaped injury. The rectory was heavily damaged. Of course the main question being asked is if the church will be rebuilt. As of now that has not been determined.
Please keep the people affected by this tragedy in your prayers.
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