A Victorian-style church that dates back to the 1830s in Riverhead is in need of repair after its roof nearly caved in.
Richard Cox, a local contractor, was called to the First Congregational Church on Main Street. He then discovered its roof was about to collapse and its walls were being pushed apart.
Cox moved quickly to install four main trusses to support the roof and ceiling. When those trusses started to give way, the church added a support system.
Soon after the support system was added, the ceiling gave way. Without the support system, the ceiling would have completely caved in, according to church trustee James Wooten.
Church officials say they need at least $250,000 for repairs - money they do not have. Officials and parishioners are now appealing to the public to help save their church.