THE restoration of a Londonderry church extensively damaged by vandals last year will be marked by a special service of thanksgiving.
Vandals defecated and urinated in Christ Church during a break-in in September last year causing outrage across the city.
The church organ and a stained glass window were extensively damaged and a decanter used in Holy Communion stolen.
Parishioners will mark the restoration of the window and organ at a special Harvest service on Sunday.
Archdeacon Robert Miller said he is delighted the congregation can now give thanks for the work carried out.
He said last year’s attack – just four years after a fire at the church – “really did knock the congregation back”.
“But at the same time there’s been positivity from the wider community,” he told BBC Radio Foyle.
“People were very generous with their donations, their time and their interest, but also with their money. We’re very thankful for that,” he said.
Archdeacon Robert Miller inspecting the damage to the organ at Christ Church last year. It has now been restored
The Church of Ireland Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, Rev Ken Good, who described last year’s vandalism as “sacrilege”, will worship with the congregation of Christ Church this Sunday, September 30.
