Lightning strike causes spire collapse at church in Clare, minimal damage to main building

A church in Ruan, Clare, suffered a spire collapse after being struck by lightning early Sunday morning. The timber spire caught fire and fell, but the main church building sustained minimal damage, mainly affecting its electricity and heating systems. Local parish priest Fr Pat O’Neill noted that the fire was contained before it could spread to the main structure. However, a nearby home was completely destroyed, causing distress in the community. Fr O’Neill expressed hope for Christmas services, stating that midnight Mass will be held either in the church or a nearby hall. Structural engineers are expected to inspect the church tower for safety.