Potential arson fire at historic Franklin church delays priest’s funeral

"Based on an examination of the scene, witness interviews, and other evidence gathered throughout last night and this morning, they collectively determined that the fire was intentionally set."

A funeral for a senior priest scheduled for Thursday at St. Mary’s Church in Franklin has been postponed, following a fire being investigated as arson, officials say.

A letter sent to parishes and priests in the Archdiocese Wednesday night said that funeral services for Rev. John “Jack” Sullivan, 74, a senior priest in residence at St. Mary’s, would be rescheduled.

The postponement was due to a fire reported Wednesday evening in the sacristy, according to Franklin Fire Chief James McLaughlin.

Although the fire was “quickly” extinguished, a “significant amount of smoke” billowed through the entire church, he said.

Personnel remained on scene and used fans to ventilate the building.

“We are extremely grateful that the fire was contained and there are no reports of any injuries,” the letter from the Archdiocese of Boston said.

The fire is being investigated as arson, authorities said.

“Based on an examination of the scene, witness interviews, and other evidence gathered throughout last night and this morning, they collectively determined that the fire was intentionally set,” officials said.

The letter did not disclose how long the historic church, which became an independent parish in 1877, would be closed, but said that “significant smoke damage” will require “heavy cleaning.”

“No activities will be held in the church building until further notice,” the church said on Facebook.

Sullivan’s family was still planning to gather for a private service on Thursday.

“Houses of worship play a vital role in every community, and our hearts go out to everyone who made St. Mary’s a part of their lives,” McLaughlin said.

The fire is under investigation by the Franklin Fire Department, Franklin Police Department, the State Fire Marshal’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

Lindsay Shachnow covers general assignment news for Boston.com, reporting on breaking news, crime, and politics across New England.