A CHURCH OF Ireland church in Clifden, Co Galway, faces repair costs of up to €70,000 after it was left nearly destroyed by vandals.
The Errislannan church had not been used for several weeks, and the damage was only discovered today.
Reverend Steve Evans told RTÉ Nuacht that the church pews and altar were damaged, and the cross was used to damage the organ and other items in a “wanton act of vandalism”.
He said: “The Church has been completely decimated. The pews, the pulpit, the organ, the altar table, everything smashed, the lights ripped out.
The bible, which is a beautiful, family, church bible was thrown out the east window. Even the cross has been taken and used as a weapon to smash items and it is quite devastating.
Evans added the whole community had been left reeling by the incident.
The Bishop of Tuam, Patrick Rooke, called it a “very sad day”.
He said: “I am horrified and saddened by the wanton destruction carried out by vandals in Errislannan Church, outside Clifden. I cannot see what possible gain might be achieved by those responsible.”
Gardaí in the remote part of Connemara are now seeking the public’s help in finding out who caused this vandalism.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Clifden Garda Station at 095 225 00.
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