Bend church holds first Mass since arson

About 21 months after an arson spree left part of a downtown Bend church heavily damaged, the congregation held their first Mass Sunday in the renovated building.

Trinity Episcopal Church dates back to 1918 and sits at the south end of downtown. It’s recognized by its bright red doors, and for much of the last two years the sounds of construction.

But on Sunday morning, an old familiar sound echoed from the halls of the church. First a bell, then voices in prayer. For the first time since March of 2013, Mass was in session.

“It’s the second Sunday of Advent, and we’re supposed to be slowing down and waiting,” said Colleen McCracken, an eight-year member of Trinity Episcopal. “But I think everyone will be hurrying into the church this morning.”

The morning service was one of reflection — a community still trying to understand why suspected arsonists burned 3,500 square feet of their 96-year old church. No suspects have been identified.

“We’re still frustrated about what happened,” Senior Warden Peter Lovering said. “But now we’re left with an even better church.”

Lovering estimates that repairs and renovations cost close to $4 million — repairs that are still ongoing.

“A few wires hanging around here and there, but we’re ready to open our doors,” Lovering said. “To have it open again, and to have people worshiping is just a wonderful thing.”

The service was led by the Rev. Jed Holdorph, who took over that role at Trinity Episcopal two months ago. He says the renovated church will go hand in hand with new leadership.

“Advent is a time (in our religion) where we celebrate new beginnings,” Holdorph said.

“All of these new beginnings just one after the other. There’s just a lot of enthusiasm here right now for all of us.”

Trinity Episcopal is an Anglican church. The first Mass was held at 8 a.m., followed by a service with music at 10 a.m. A celebration was held after both services in the neighboring Brooks Hall.