By ChurchPOP Editor, July 31, 2019
A devastating fire destroyed a historic church about 40 miles outside of Waco, Texas.
The Church of the Visitation in Westphalia, Texas caught fire Monday morning, destroying the 125-year-old church.
The church currently has 500 registered parishioners and 185 families.
Neighbors managed to save most of the Eucharist and the tabernacle, but the remainder of the historic church completely burned within 30 minutes.
They are also still searching for the Relic of the True Cross of Jesus Christ.
Reports said the fire’s cause is still unknown. The local news station reported that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is investigating the case.
Estimated damages are between $3 and $4 million.
“Even in this moment of tragedy, pain and suffering, God is part of us and God does not abandon His church,” Diocese of Austin Bishop Joe S. Vásquez said during a press conference.
“We have the assurance that God will sustain us through our Catholic faith that tells us we are never alone.
“And also through the intercession of Mary, our beloved Mother, who is always there, especially with her Son Jesus, who is at the foot of the Cross. She is also present here right now with us.”
He added that he is “saddened for the people of Westphalia who have suffered this tremendous loss,” and that they “will rebuild.”
https://churchpop.com/2019/07/31/eucharist-saved-after-fire-destroys-historic-texas-church-see-the-devastating-photos/?fbclid=IwAR1pwiBnQOURdzzzPiEVpOA4-7F7L4kWMcBbOkK2scphjEszAwJzEf5CCtE
