The Anglican community in Kinngait, Nunavut, is preparing for the construction of a new church building to replace the one that was destroyed in a fire over three years ago. South Baffin MLA, David Joanasie, believes this rebuilding project will bring a sense of healing to the community. The St. John church, which has been a cornerstone of the community since the 1950s, was lost in the same fire that consumed the local Living Water church in January 2023.
Both fires, occurring within days of each other, were deemed suspicious by the Nunavut Fire Marshal and the RCMP, but no suspects were identified despite thorough investigations. Nunavut RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Ashley Daley confirmed that the cases have been closed, although they can be reopened if new information surfaces.
While there are lingering questions about the fires in the community, Joanasie encourages residents to focus on the future and the upcoming reconstruction of the Anglican church. The local Anglican committee, led by Eegevadluk Ogutaq, has already raised over $1 million towards the rebuilding effort and secured initial materials for laying the foundation this autumn. Ogutaq mentioned that the new church will be larger than its predecessor.
The exact timeline for the completion of the new church remains uncertain, but Joanasie expresses optimism about attending the opening ceremony. He views this rebuilding process as a symbolic moment of renewal, following the emotional impact the fires had on the community.