Sarah McMillan/cvnznews.com
Two North Island churches have been left shaken after the theft of treasured religious items in separate incidents this week.
St Peter’s on Willis in Te Aro, Wellington, discovered on Tuesday that two icons normally displayed on its high altar had disappeared. Clergy say they have no idea how the items were taken, but believe they were removed by a daytime visitor while the church was open.
One icon, Mother of Mercy and Compassion, was created by Reverend Jean Malcolm, an iconographer at the church. The second is a copy of the historic Icon of Christ and Abbot Mena, a Coptic image whose original hangs in the Louvre.
Rev Malcolm said the icons hold little monetary value but are deeply significant to the parish. “They’re part of our community and our prayer life. Their absence leaves a big hole in our hearts,” she said.
The church, which prides itself on being open and welcoming, has faced another incident recently — a golden eagle lectern was damaged in April. Reverend Stephen King said the thefts reflect the growing social and economic pressures in the city. “It seems as tough as it’s ever been out there on the streets. We’re seeing more people coming in for assistance.”
Despite the losses, clergy say they do not intend to lock away their taonga. If the icons are not returned, St Peter’s plans to close its doors for a day as an act of mourning and protest. The church has chosen not to report the theft to police, hoping instead that the items will be quietly returned. “We’re not wanting to charge anybody,” Rev Malcolm said. “We want restoration and peace.”
In Northland, St Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Rawene has also suffered a theft, with its bronze bell taken sometime between July 15 and 22. Police say the bell, more than half a metre tall, would have required significant effort and a vehicle to remove. They are appealing for its safe return.
Both congregations hope their stolen taonga will be restored to their communities.
