A New Kensignton church that was damaged by a tornado last year has been approved for restoration, the Diocese of Greensburg announced.
The bell tower, steeple and roof at St. Mary of Czestochowa Parish saw the most damage when the tornado hit the area on April 8, 2020.
Bishop Larry Kulick announced the restoration process will be funded by over $2 million in insurance funds.
"Compounding the devastation of this tragic storm, was its timing," Kulick said. "The tornado damaged the church during Holy Week of 2020, a time when most of the world was locked down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. My prayers have been with Monsignor Begolly and the parishioners and I thank them for the patience, understanding and cooperation. They have remained a parish, even without a church building, for almost a year."
Kulick also announced changes in church leadership ahead of the restoration.
He and Monsignor Michael Begolly believe its an optimal time to make a leadership transition to "provide long-term continuity and stability for the New Kensington region," according to a release.
Effective with summer clergy appointments, Begolly will be appointed pastor of Mother of Sorrows Parish in Murraysville. Father Kenneth Zaccagnini will remain pastor of St. Margaret Mary Parish in Lower Burrell and be appointed pastor of St. Mary of Czestochowa Parish, St. Joseph Parish and Mount St. Peter Parish, all in New Kensington.
"I am grateful to the faithful people of New Kensington for their support over the last year as we worked side by side with the Diocese of Greensburg, insurance adjustors and building inspectors to determine the next steps," Begolly said. "Now that the Bishop has given permission to move forward on restoring the church, I am certain there will be a lot of excitement and energy surrounding these efforts."
The Diocese says Zaccagnini will assume the role of Bishop's Liaison for Restoration immediately.
