Morinville church reopens 4 years after devastating fire

A church in Morinville has re-opened its doors after a fire destroyed it four years ago. CTV Edmonton's Miriam Valdes-Carletti has the story on the journey.

More than four years after a fire destroyed a church in Morinville, congregants were officially welcomed back Sunday.

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Father Trini Pinca said it was a long journey, but worthwhile.

“The experience of losing something special brings us together as a community,” Pinca told CTV News Edmonton.

Firefighters were called to St. Jean Baptiste Parish shortly after 3 a.m. on June 30, 2021. The church was built in 1907.

While it was mostly destroyed in the blaze, there were some things that were salvaged and incorporated into the new structure including bricks and the original door.

“Those bricks are a reminder for us to remember the sacrifices that have been made by those who have been ahead of us,” said Pinca. “We’re blessed to have this opportunity of building the church just like how they did.”

Pinca called the burning and subsequent rebuild of the parish a symbol of hope.

“Even with the burning of our church, from the ashes arise in this beautiful church.”

Police said the cause of the fire was suspicious and were looking for three suspects who were seen near the church around the time of the fire. CTV News Edmonton has reached out to RCMP to find out if any charges were laid.

People filled the pews for the first service of the year, just ahead of Christmas.

“Being able to celebrate mass once again is the best Christmas gift that I can receive,” said Pinca.

It cost $8 million to rebuild the church.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Miriam Valdes-Carletti