Portsmouth Catholic Church now fully restored almost 13 years after it was destroyed by an earthquake

The Portsmouth Catholic Church is now fully restored, and was opened with a grand dedication on Friday 18th August, almost 13 years after it was destroyed on Sunday November 21, 2004, by an earthquake measuring 6.0 on the Richter scale.
 
Funds were raised by Catholic Church Organizations across the Caribbean and the world, contributions were received from the Government of Dominica, and the National Bank of Dominica (NBD), among others. Bishop of Roseau, His Lordship Gabriel Malzaire also had made a special appeal. Parish Priest Fr. Herman Sharplis said the Parishioners & many other people “worked hard” to achieve this result.
 
Parish Priest Herman Sharplis revealed that the church now had money in the bank, and was debt free. He said “We are not owing anybody.” He called on the church members to, “take care of your church”, and he urged the youth not to lose sight of God.
 
Restoration Work started on the church on 3rd September 2011. The new church was designed by Bernard Lauwyck, and features a new design and layout including a Baptismal Font. Several people were presented with special recognition awards at the dedication ceremony.

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