There is a general headline on the main Washington Post site: “Large fire burns at Alexandria seminary.” Ugh.
Update: I found a slide show of ten pictures here.
The following is from the VTS website:
This afternoon, at 3:55 p.m., the Virginia Theological Seminary community became aware that the historic 129 year old Immanuel Chapel was on fire.
9-1-1 was immediately called, buildings were evacuated and the emergency services responded quickly and efficiently. It is clear that significant damage has occurred, including the loss of the stained glass windows and iconic words “Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel.”
“At this stage, the cause of the fire is unclear. The VTS Community is saddened and devastated by this catastrophe,” said the Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, dean and president of Virginia Theological Seminary, said, “The buildings nearby are intact and safe. The ministry and mission of VTS continue, even as the community grieves.”
Founded in 1823, Virginia Theological Seminary is the largest of the 11 accredited seminaries of the Episcopal Church. The school prepares men and women for service in the Church worldwide, both as ordained and lay ministers, and offers a number of professional degree programs and diplomas. Currently, the Seminary represents more than 40 different dioceses and nine different countries, for service in the Church.
I lived through not one but two seminary fires, and I can say with all my heart our thoughts and prayers go out to the VTS leadership, current community, and larger community of those who were there at one time serving throughout the world.
Breaks the heart. That was a lovely old chapel.
It is also strangely resonant with us, as our Diocesan Office was severely damaged and a church supported food bank was destroyed in a fire yesterday in Sacramento.
http://blogs.sacbee.com/crime/archives/2010/10/midtown-food-ba.html
Yeah, it does break the heart. one of the greatest moments of my life was the baptism of my special needs daughter in that chapel. It was standing room only and I still cry when I remember the VTS community welcoming her into the body of Christ.
This is a terrible tragedy for so many of us who were students at VTS and loved worshipping with the Seminary community in that chapel. The loss is incalculable.
I learned about this last night via Facebook. Words cannot express my sorrow given my memories of worshiping in the chapel as a student back in the late 90’s.
This is deeply distressing to all the seminarians, staff and alumni-alumae. Heartfelt condolences, sympathy and prayers.
The following needs no comment: …The loss of the stained glass windows and iconic words “Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel.â€
Perhaps there could be rebuilding.