An Important Message to the Parish - 8/17
Dear Parish Family,
By now some of you may have heard the news that there was a fire at our new facility last night. Fortunately, because of the round-the-clock security/fire watch maintained in the building, it was quickly called in and the FDNY responded in force. Here is a link to the scene from last night.
https://www.uppereastsite.com/fdny-makes-quick-work-of-upper-east-side-church-fire/
Both our Warden, Christian Vanderbrouk and I were on the scene throughout the incident. Our Construction Manager and members of her team were there as well. I am glad to report that there were no injuries.
The fire was contained to a small section of the roof over the Nave. It appears to have been caused by a spark from a welder’s torch earlier in the day. New structural steel was being installed on the roof to support the large gable on the south façade. I confirmed with our Construction Manager that the sub-contractor had followed all the safety protocols required when engaging in this type of work around exposed wood. She personally viewed the work with the sub-contractor as the work day ended.
This morning our full construction management team is on-site along with our architects and structural engineer. Both the FDNY Incident Commander and a Responder from EMS viewed the damage and did not see any signs of structural damage. The DOB was also on-site last night and, as is customary in situations like this, issued a partial stop work order for the west side of the building allowing work to continue on the east side.
As more information becomes available, I will send you periodic updates.
It goes without saying that this has been a complicated and at times difficult journey for the Parish. Yet throughout this entire experience I have seen you rise to meet each challenge and respond with grace and unwavering faith; confidence that the vision God implanted in your hearts three years ago was and is being fulfilled more and more each day. I close with these words from the Book of Jeremiah. They have often comforted me when the way has grown difficult.
“For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not to harm you. Plans to give you a future with hope.”
Thank you for your continued prayers for this parish, for its leadership and staff, and for its future.
Blessings and peace be with you,
Tags: Epiphany 351: Faith on the Move / Newsletter / Our Community / Latest Posts