A fire has caused significant damage to Greene County's oldest Catholic church, leading to the cancellation of all masses at the Saint Ann site of Saint Matthias Parish in Waynesburg. The blaze, which occurred overnight, has prompted an investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, as WTAE reported.
While the main body of the church remains intact, adjoining spaces suffered "extensive damage," the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh reported in a release. As a result, services are temporarily moved to other nearby churches as the parish starts the restoration process. "It was unbelievable, it was very devastating. But, you know, very thankful that there was no loss of life," the Rev. Tom Lewandowski said, as per WPXI.
The affected areas include the priest’s vesting room, two classrooms, and a bathroom. Despite the widespread damage and impact on the community, Lewandowski expressed relief that there were no injuries or fatalities. The diocesan Jubilee Mass that was scheduled for Sept. 6 has been postponed, with further updates to be expected as the situation progresses.
