Historic 135-year-old Tay Twp. church rises again after 2021 fire

Fire destroys a church in Tay Township, Ont., on Mon., Nov. 29, 2021 (Rob Cooper/CTV News)

Four years after a fire destroyed a 135-year-old chapel in Tay Township, Ont., Ebenezer United Church is ready to open its doors once again.

The historic congregation, founded more than a century ago, lost its cherished building in November 2021 when flames tore through the structure leaving damage estimated at more than $500,000.

The church and all the records were lost in the flames.

According to officials, the blaze was deemed not suspicious, but it marked a heartbreaking chapter for the Midland-area faith community.

• 135-year-old Tay Township church burns to the ground

After years of rebuilding and fundraising, volunteer dedication, and community support, Ebenezer United Church has been rebuilt and is set to celebrate its grand reopening on Saturday, September 13.

“Thanks to the strength and generosity of the community, as well as countless hours of dedication from members and supporters, the church has been lovingly restored and is ready to welcome everyone once again,” said congregation member Dennis Patrick in a written statement to CTV News.

The celebration will include live music, refreshments, and an open invitation for the community to gather once again.

“All are welcome to join this special event, which marks not only the reopening of a building but the renewal of a spiritual home,” continued Patrick.

The reopening takes place between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at 5450 Ebenezer Side Road in Midland.

Staff say that regular worship services will resume the following day, Sunday, at 9:30 a.m.