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More than 100 Ethiopian congregants are searching for a temporary gathering place after heavy snow caused the roof of St. George Tigrai Orthodox Tewahdo Church in Mount Vernon to collapse Monday.
Fairfax County Fire and Rescue responded around 5:20 p.m. and found roof and floor failure in what officials described as a partially collapsed two-story commercial building. No one was inside, and no injuries were reported.
Red and yellow caution tape now surrounds the church, and its parking lot stands empty. Ayalneh Berhe, the church’s finance and administration coordinator, said the main building’s walls also appear to be leaning toward the front.
The congregation purchased the property in 2020 during the pandemic. Berhe said members now have nowhere to hold prayers or gather while they consider temporary options.
Repairing the roof may not be possible because one side of the building is leaning, he said. No one has been permitted to enter, and engineers are expected to inspect the structure. Religious materials, computers and musical instruments remain inside.
The damage also destroyed an outdoor tent where community members gathered for breakfast, coffee or tea after services.
Church leaders have started a fundraiser to help cover costs as they assess the damage and search for temporary space. Berhe said the congregation ultimately hopes to rebuild the church and resume its activities at the Mount Vernon property.