On Wednesday, May 16, 2012, at 12:30 P.M., Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno with representatives from the Greater Springfield Council of Churches (GSCC) will announce plans for an interfaith service in remembrance of the June 1, 2011, tornado. Wednesday’s press announcement will occur on the steps of City Hall (Room 220 in case of inclement weather.) Speaking on behalf of the GSCC will be Archbishop Timothy Baymon. Joan Kagan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Square One, is also scheduled to make remarks.
“It is not the disaster that we celebrate, but spirit of the city and how we to came together in support of their neighbors,” said Sarno.
The service titled “Remembering and Renewing: A Service on the Anniversary of the June 1st Tornado” will be held June 1, 2012, at 4:00 P.M., in Old First Church located in historic Court Square.
At 4:37 P.M., on June 1, 2012, church bells will be rung throughout the community to mark when the first tornado touched down in Springfield.
The June 1st tornado left a 39-mile path of destruction from Westfield to Southbridge, claimed three lives and caused millions of dollars in damages. In Springfield, a total of 292 structures were condemned and 89 structures had to be demolished. Mayor Sarno said “the rebuilding and healing process will be an on-going effort.”
For more information about the “Remembering and Renewing: A Service on the Anniversary of the June 1st Tornado,” contact the Spirit of Springfield at 413-733-3800.