Benguet Churches Targeted in String of Liturgical Item Thefts Since January
Four churches across Benguet province have fallen victim to a series of targeted thefts involving valuable liturgical vessels since the beginning of January, according to an urgent security notice issued by the Diocese of Baguio. The diocese has disclosed that these incidents have occurred over the past two months, affecting multiple neighboring parishes and resulting in the loss of several sacred items used in religious ceremonies.
Affected Parishes and Stolen Items
The thefts have impacted the Conversion of St. Paul Parish in Tuba, the Immaculate Conception Parish Church in Sablan, Our Lady of Fatima Parish Church in Itogon, and St. John Don Bosco Parish Church in Baguio City. Among the stolen liturgical items are a candle stand, a censer and boat, various altar server accessories, an incense boat, and an ordination chalice. These objects hold significant religious and ceremonial value within the Catholic community.
Diocese Issues Urgent Security Directives
In response to these incidents, the Diocese of Baguio has issued a strong call to action, urging all 34 parishes in Benguet to immediately enhance their security measures for sacred vessels and liturgical items. The diocese emphasized the need for parishes to review and strengthen their existing protocols to ensure that these important religious artifacts are properly secured when not in use during liturgical celebrations.
The diocese stated, "We urge all parishes to review their security protocols and ensure that sacred vessels and liturgical items are properly secured when not in use." This directive aims to prevent further thefts and protect the integrity of worship materials across the region.
Public Appeal for Information
The Diocese of Baguio has also appealed to the public for assistance in recovering the stolen items. They have asked individuals to report any information regarding the missing liturgical vessels or if they are offered such items for sale from unofficial sources. The public can contact the Curia Information Office or the concerned parishes directly to provide tips or leads that may aid in the investigation.
The notice advised, "If you are offered any liturgical items for sale from unofficial sources, or if you have information regarding the missing items, please contact the Curia Information Office or the concerned parishes." This collaborative effort between the church and community highlights the seriousness of the thefts and the desire to reclaim these sacred objects.
The series of thefts has raised concerns about security within religious institutions in Benguet, prompting a coordinated response to safeguard liturgical items and maintain the sanctity of church properties. The Diocese of Baguio continues to monitor the situation closely as investigations proceed.
