On Monday 9 July 1984 lightning struck York Minster’s South Transept.

Fire destroyed the roof and caused the Rose Window to crack in approximately 40,000 places. Skilled craftspeople undertook a four-year restoration project, returning the transept to its former glory.

“We could see the ribs of the South Transept outlined black against the flames, and inside the West door there was a reddish glow and a lot of smoke.”

– Mollie Toy

As staff rushed into the building to save treasures, unlock doors and guide firefighters, some could only watch on in horror. The nation woke up to the news and messages of support arrived before the building had even cleared of smoke.

Generous God, we give thanks for the kindness and generosity of strangers. Help us keep those in need in our hearts and act when we can to support them.

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Image reproduced with kind permission of T Earnshaw.