WelCom October 2024
Holy Cross Church in Miramar has closed its doors ‘at least temporarily’, due to health and safety concerns. A letter to parishioners said the decision was based upon ‘the recent earthquake and torrential downpours from which it has become evident that the condition of our church has further deteriorated’.
‘As a result, the Finance Committee and Parish Leadership team have reviewed the church’s deterioration and concluded that it poses a serious risk to the health and safety of our parishioners, visitors and clergy,’ the letter said.
Issues noted during the inspection include, but are not limited to: new visible cracks inside and outside, visible separation between steel beams and wall structures, interior water damage related to roof issues, dangerously compromised electrical system (water leaking onto heaters) and water damage including wet and mouldy carpets.
In explaining the decision, which came as a shock to many parishioners, the letter from parish leaders said ‘the health and safety of our community is paramount’.
Holy Cross Church is one of three churches in the Holy Trinity Parish, in the Eastern suburbs of Wellington. Services shifted to St Patrick’s Church in Kilbirnie from Sunday 29 September. Efforts are being made to provide transport for Miramar parishioners to attend Masses in Kilbirnie.
It is yet to be decided if Holy Cross Church’s closing will be permanent.
Source: Holy Trinity Parish