Historic Church Collapses in New London, Triggering Demolition

Engaging Heaven Church Suffers Steeple Collapse, Leading to Full Demolition

In a somber turn of events, the 200-year-old Engaging Heaven Church in New London, Connecticut, faced an unfortunate incident on Thursday, resulting in the collapse of its steeple. The incident has prompted city officials to initiate the demolition of the entire church structure, marking a significant loss for the city’s historical and religious landscape.

Demolition Underway, Steeples to be Removed

Following the collapse, a crane was brought in on Friday to commence the demolition process. The extent of the damage necessitates the removal of the entire church building, which is expected to take several days. City officials have closed off roads surrounding the church to ensure public safety during the demolition.

Church’s History and Significance

Engaging Heaven Church holds a prominent place in New London’s history, having been constructed in 1810. Over the years, it underwent an expansion in 1975, adding to its architectural significance. The steeple, which unfortunately collapsed, served as a local landmark, contributing to the city’s skyline and identity.

Mayor Expresses Grief and Acknowledges Loss

Mayor Michael Passero expressed his profound sorrow over the incident, stating that the city has suffered a severe setback with the loss of one of its oldest and most stunning religious structures. The collapse has left a void in the cityscape, permanently altering New London’s skyline.

Witness Accounts and Evacuations

Individuals who witnessed the collapse shared their accounts of the event. One witness, Ken Sentell, described how the steeple’s disappearance from view left a noticeable void in the cityscape. Meanwhile, Connecticut College students residing in the nearby Manwaring Building were evacuated as a precautionary measure.

Cause of Collapse Under Investigation

The exact cause of the steeple’s collapse remains uncertain. City officials are meticulously gathering evidence to determine the root cause of the incident. Mayor Passero emphasized that there is no indication of structural issues in other buildings, but the city intends to conduct inspections to ensure public safety.

Church Services and Community Support

Despite the setback, Engaging Heaven Church remains committed to serving its community. Sunday services will be held at the Garde Arts Theatre, while the Salvation Army will facilitate church operations. The church’s Human Resources Director, Jeanne Milstein, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community during this challenging time.

Inspections and Pandemic’s Impact

Fire Marshal Vernon Saau revealed that the last inspection of the church occurred in January 2019, identifying minor violations that were promptly rectified. Regular inspections are scheduled every two years, but the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the inspection process, leading to a gap in assessments.

Conclusion

The collapse of Engaging Heaven Church’s steeple and the subsequent demolition mark a somber chapter in New London’s history. The loss of this architectural and historical landmark leaves a significant void in the city’s identity. As the community mourns this loss, efforts are underway to preserve the church’s legacy and ensure the safety of its congregation and the surrounding area.