On June 17, 2024, the beloved Santa Rosa de Lima Church, an iconic symbol of faith and community built in 1941, was tragically struck by fire. For 83 years, Santa Rosa has been a spiritual home to many, a place of solace, celebration, and community gathering. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, and they need our support now more than ever.
The incident occurred when Captain Juan Vasquez, a dedicated parishioner, noticed smoke coming from the vent by the church bell tower. His quick actions to ensure the safety of anyone inside and his immediate alert to authorities exemplify the deep care and commitment of Santa Rosa’s community members.
This devastating and unfortunate event has deeply impacted the priests, staff, and parishioners at Santa Rosa. The priests now lack the privacy needed to meet with parishioners, as they are forced to use St. Catherine Church, which is often occupied by people praying. The staff is struggling without access to essential office materials, making it challenging to assist parishioners with certificates and other needs. The parishioners at Santa Rosa are feeling the loss profoundly, particularly older members who cannot easily travel across town to St. Catherine.
The disruption extends to the Religious Formation program, which is just around the corner. With approximately 400 to 450 students to register, the lack of facilities and resources is a significant concern. The classrooms at Santa Rosa are unusable, and while parishioners plan to use Santa Rosa Hall and St. Catherine Hall, neither has adequate air conditioning.
This fire has not only affected the physical structure of Santa Rosa Church but also the very fabric of the community. It has left a void in their lives that they are deeply struggling to fill. We are reaching out to you, our extended community, for support and prayers during this challenging time.
The Santa Rosa community humbly asks for your assistance to help them rebuild and restore the Santa Rosa Church. They are deeply grateful for the support they have been shown in the past, and they now turn to the community once again. Your generous donations will enable them to provide private meeting spaces for their priests, equip the staff to perform their duties effectively and allow the community to once again gather in their spiritual home.
El Paso and West Texas have been profoundly enriched by the incredible clergy who have come from Pecos. Their unwavering faith and dedication have not only blessed us but also inspired us. We are overjoyed to have Monsignor Arturo Banuelos, Rev. Trini Fuentes, Rev. Pablo Matta, Rev. Pedro Garcia, Rev. Andy Martinez, Rev. Aric Serrano, Deacon George Vasquez, Deacon Oscar Machuca, and Deacon Rudy Villegas as part of our community.
Please prayerfully consider making a donation to support the recovery efforts. Every contribution, no matter how small, brings the community one step closer to restoring their beloved church and continuing the mission of their ministries. Together, united as one we can help Santa Rosa overcome this tragedy.
Your support and prayers mean the world to the Santa Rosa community. They are deeply grateful for your solidarity during this difficult time. Thank you for standing with us. - with heartfelt gratitude, the Santa Rosa De Lima Church Community.