Mayor Sarno and CDO Sheehan meet with Rev. Dr. Avery of MLK Jr Community Presbyterian Church

Mayor Sarno states, “Although the church was damaged by the deplorable actions of arson, the congregation remains spiritually sound and strong but there is more work that needs to be done.  I want to thank Pastor Avery for her steady and strong leadership during this difficult process.  With the culprit who committed this heinous hate crime and arson arrested and facing justice, now is the time to heal and rebuild.  As my administration did previously with helping to support the Macedonia Church recover and rebuild following the 2008 election night arson, I will once again continue to offer any assistance we can provide to help restore this beautiful significant and historic property.  However, we cannot do this alone.  We remain hopeful that our local, state and national financial and philanthropical institutions can join with our local and state governments to help facilitate and guide the MLK Jr. Community Presbyterian Church through the process of rebuilding.  It won’t be easy but together our Springfield community can do anything.”