Three Delaware churches targeted in arson attack

Three churches set alight in the early hours of Tuesday near Felton in Delaware have been ruled an arson by investigating officers. 

Healing Hands Christian Church was the first fire to be reported to emergency responders just before 2am, followed by Manship Chapel shortly after, and the Laws Mennonite Church, at around 5:30am.  

According to DelawareOnline, the damage to Healing Hands has rendered the church a "total loss" and has been estimated at around $75,000. 

The damage to Manship Chapel and Laws Mennonite Church has been put at around $1,000 and $10,000 respectively. 

The churches are several miles apart and the State Fire Marshal's Office, which is leading the investigation, said "common denominators" had been found. 

Assistant State Fire Marshal Michael Chionchio said it was "rare" to have three fires in the same area in a single night. 

Investigators have confirmed that the fires were caused by arson and Chionchio said they were working to find out who was behind the attacks.  

"Obviously, it's something that we've made a high priority," he said.  

News
Almost half of UK adults plan to attend church this Christmas, new poll finds
Almost half of UK adults plan to attend church this Christmas, new poll finds

Churches across the UK are expecting fuller pews this Christmas, as new research suggests a significant rise in the number of people planning to attend services and church-run events over the festive season.

ACNA panel recommends archbishop stand trial
ACNA panel recommends archbishop stand trial

The Board of Inquiry issued a short statement on Friday stating that there was “probable cause to present” ACNA Archbishop Steve Wood “for trial for violation of Canon 2 of this Title.”

Controversial US bishop to give BBC Christmas message
Controversial US bishop to give BBC Christmas message

The BBC has invited Bishop Mariann Budde, the US bishop who challenged President Donald Trump at an inauguration service in January, to give a Christmas message.

Australian church leaders stand in solidarity with Jewish community after Bondi Beach terrorist attack
Australian church leaders stand in solidarity with Jewish community after Bondi Beach terrorist attack

Christian leaders in Australia have expressed their solidarity with the country's grief-stricken Jewish community after a deadly terrorist attack on Bondi Beach in Sydney on Sunday night.