A disused church is to be transformed into a ‘centre for warmth’ for those fleeing the war in Ukraine.

The Church of St George and St Thomas, in Dublin, is to be partly refurbished and open its doors for refugees, providing pastoral ministry to Ukrainians, and other practical help.

The plan is part of the U&Ukraine initiative in Ireland which seeks to welcome Ukrainian refugees to the country and was announced by The United Dioceses of Dublin and Glendalough.

The United Diocese has urged parishioners to get behind fundraising for a new kitchen and toilets to bring the building up to scratch.

It also aims to provide refugees with a priest in the Ukrainian Orthodox tradition to offer spiritual help during the next year.

In a statement it said the United Dioceses has committed to working closely with the Ukrainian community leaders in Ireland to identify practical ways to support and meet the needs of those arriving in the country.

Church of Ireland Archbishop of Dublin, Most Rev Dr Michael Jackson said: “Our invitation at Easter 2022 is to share hope in seemingly impossible human situations where Jesus still dies and rises again.”