Fire destroys Ebb and Flow First Nation’s only church – again

A fire has destroyed the only church on a Manitoba First Nation for the second time.

St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church on Ebb and Flow First Nation burned to the ground at around 5 a.m. Saturday morning, said parishioner Phyllis Racette.

“This was the second church, because the first one burned down,” said Racette. “It was built in 1953 I think it is, it was 65 years old.”

The church was still being used and was active, said Racette, adding the area bishop had just visited a few months ago and held confirmation services with the church’s young people.

“It’s hard for the young people, that’s what I noticed. They’re commenting on Facebook and other places. They feel a big sense of loss.

“It’s heartbreaking for a lot of people … it was a landmark, obviously, but it was still very much being used still.”

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The church was home to weddings, funerals, fundraisers, movie nights, workshops, food bingos, and even “teen dances in the basement,” said Racette.

“My confirmation I did there, I got married there,” she added, noting Monday was her and her husband’s anniversary.

“I feel kind of weepy about it. I’m still feeling loss.”

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“They haven’t said yet, just speculation,” she said, when asked about a cause.

Father Jorge Mante has only been the church’s priest for about a month, but he said he feels for the community.

“I feel so deeply saddened about what happened,” said Mante. “I feel so saddened that it happened during my time.”

Worship services will continue at the town’s community hall, he said, adding the church had insurance.

“We will see what the next steps are,” he said.

Ebb and Flow First Nation is about 180 km northwest of Winnipeg.

RCMP said they are investigating but have yet to determine a cause.