Saint Joseph’s Church Reborn | Portland News

After a devastating fire three years ago, Salem’s historic Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church has been fully restored and rededicated — a powerful symbol of community resilience. The blaze, sparked by a dumpster fire, destroyed the 73-year-old building but spared the priest inside. The arsonist, Billy James Sweeten, was arrested and pleaded no contest. While parishioners worshiped in the gym during repairs, hope never waned. The grand rededication drew 2,000 people for a moving mass led by Archbishop Alexander Sample. For newcomers like Liz Millenheft, the rebuilt church embodies strength and unity. Pastor Jeff Meeuwsen called the journey emotional but deeply grateful, moved to tears by the overflowing crowd. Renovation leader Frank Graney described the restoration as a divine blessing. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/e72f8c7dc87ef1d4