Texas church opens new sanctuary after massacre
SUTHERLAND SPRINGS, Texas (AP) — A South Texas church begins a new chapter of worship on Sunday as it unveils a new sanctuary a year and half after a gunman opened fire and killed more than two dozen congregants in the deadliest mass shooting in state history.
Worshippers, elected leaders and relatives of those killed or injured at the First Baptist Church in the tiny town of Sutherland Springs are expected to gather at the new sanctuary for a dedication ceremony on Sunday. Republican Gov. Greg Abbott will also attend the opening and deliver remarks at the new facility.
The new worship center and memorial room honoring the victims was made possible through millions of dollars of donations and other worldwide support. The facility features enhanced security elements, along with a church bell tower and another additional prayer space.
A gunman shot and killed 25 people at the church on Nov. 5, 2017 . Authorities put the official toll death at 26 because one of the victims was pregnant.
Read more: https://www.mysanantonio.com/news/texas/article/Texas-church-opens-new-sanctuary-after-massacre-13856892.php
