The 115-year-old Anglican Church of the Epiphany is nearing a return to service after more than a year of closure. Following a series of alleged arson attacks in the Masterton township, the parish has recently secured planning permission to initiate the rebuild.
There are hopes that the restoration process will be completed within the next three to four months. Since the attacks, the congregation has been forced to hold services at the Hadlow Preparatory School hall.
A Devastating Morning
The crisis began on February 22, when People’s Warden Paul Maguire received a wake-up call around 6 a.m. He was informed that his church and five others had been deliberately set on fire.
Although the building was not burned to the ground, the damage was significant. The foyer was the hardest hit and the entire length of the roof was left blackened.
Internal systems, including all wiring, heating, and AV equipment, were completely destroyed. Claire Marara, who served as a warden during the fire and now manages insurance claims and the rebuild, noted that extensive internal demolition was required to determine the full extent of the damage.
More Than a Building
The closure has disrupted more than just religious services. The church previously served as a hub for the community, hosting men’s breakfasts, women’s social events, and a Wednesday pickup spot for the local fruit and vege co-op.
The nearby Hadlow Preparatory School also used the church as its chapel. Principal Andrew Osmond recalled a routine where the entire school walked to the church every Monday morning at 8:45 a.m.
The loss of the physical space has had a deep emotional impact. Paul Maguire highlighted the tragedy of older congregation members who passed away over the last 14 months and were unable to have their funeral services held at Epiphany.
Funding the Recovery
While insurance covered the primary fire damage, the parish faced a $20,000 funding gap for essential exterior work and future-proofing. To bridge this, the church turned to community support.
A Givealittle page has raised $4,495, and a separate direct donation of $5,000 has brought the total to nearly halfway toward the required amount.
Legal Proceedings
The legal process regarding the attacks remains ongoing. A 45-year-old man was arrested and charged last May in relation to the arsons.
According to police, the case is still before the courts. The accused is scheduled to reappear in the Wellington District Court on July 14.
If the current timeline holds, the community may see a potential reopening in several months, restoring a central part of the township’s identity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where has the congregation been meeting since the fire?
Services have been held at the Hadlow Preparatory School hall since the church was damaged.
What specific materials are needed for the restoration?
The rebuild requires the sourcing of native rimu timber to restore the 1911 building to its original state.
How much money is still needed for exterior restoration?
The church faced a $20,000 funding gap for wider exterior work and future-proofing, having raised nearly half of that amount through a Givealittle page and direct donations.
How do you think a community’s identity changes when its central gathering places are lost?
