The police in Jamaica have launched an investigation into the circumstances that led to a fire at the St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in St. Andrew early Sunday.
Altar damaged
The police report that early morning fire damaged the altar at the popular church, resulting in the morning service being moved to the church hall.
The communications arm of the Jamaica Constabulary Force reported that around 1:20 am on Sunday a clergyman who lives on the property was awoken by the security guard on duty who reported that the altar, linens, vestments, and items close by were on fire.
Damages estimated at J$100,000
The blaze was put out by firefighters from the Half-Way-Tree station. Damage has been estimated at J$100,000.
The church’s pastor, Rev Father Donald Chambers, said he did not wish to speak directly to the matter as it was under investigation but said that he and members of his congregation were saddened by the incident.
Feel violated and abused
“We feel violated and abused, but we realize this is part of life. We have to ride the tide and get to the root of it. I told the congregation, “Listen, we are people of faith, we walk by faith and not by sight, so whatever happens, the church exists not because of a building, it exists because of the faith of the community’,” Chambers said.
