A fundraising concert featuring Daniel O’Donnell and several other performers is set to take place to help rebuild a Co Donegal church that was destroyed by fire, reports RTE.
The fire broke out at Teach Pobail Mhuire in Doirí Beaga, Gaoth Dobhair, during the early hours of Monday.
Authorities are continuing to investigate what caused the blaze, reports RTE.
A forensic inspection is expected to begin once the site is confirmed to be safe and secure.
Over €50,000 has already been raised through a GoFundMe campaign to aid in reconstructing the church, reports RTE.
This Saturday, Daniel O’Donnell, Moya Brennan from Clannad, and Altan’s Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh will perform at a concert at Teach Phaídí Óig in Croithlí, Co Donegal.
The event is expected to contribute further funds towards rebuilding efforts, reports RTE.
Organisers urged the public to contribute in any way they can, be it through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word.
The spokesperson described the church as a “beloved parish chapel” that was “tragically” lost to the fire, and said it had long been “a place where we celebrated life’s most important moments, a symbol of faith, family, and hope for generations,” reports RTE.
“Now, it’s time to give back to the place that gave us so much,” the spokesperson said.
“We are hosting a fundraiser and volunteer night to support the rebuilding of our chapel and to renew the spirit that holds our parish together,” reports RTE.
Parish Priest An t-Athair Brian Ó Fearraigh called the local community “resilient”, and said they would support one another during this time of sorrow.
“We will rebuild our church with a renewed hope for a brighter future,” he added, reports RTE.
Roads around Séipéal Mhuire in Doirí Beaga remain closed while garda forensic teams continue to investigate the remains.
Five fire brigade units along with gardaí responded to the scene shortly after the fire was reported at 4am on Monday.
The church, constructed in 1972, was one of the largest in the Diocese of Raphoe, reports RTE.
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