Chapel break-in – hosts scattered, burglar leaves warning

DOMINICA

There was a break-in and vandalism at Bellevue Chopin chapel.

The discovery was made August 25 by two parishioners on entering the church to prepare for Catechism classes.

The Diocese’s Our Catholic Community, September 4 issue reported that The Stations of the Cross were strewn on the floor of the chapel as well as the statue of the Infant Jesus.

“In the sacristy, a mess was made of almost everything,” the publication said.

It noted that the hosts were scattered on the floor of the sacristy together with the wine and priest vestments.

The Blessed Sacrament was removed from the tabernacle and was found near a statue of St Gerard. “The culprit(s) left a message written on a sheet of paper which read ‘tell the people the truth and die’.”

The chapel’s speakers and amplifier were also stolen.

Speaking of the incident, Fr Francis, parish priest of Our Lady of Fatima Parish expressed “deep concern” over the situation but stated that he was not frightened by what had occurred.

According to Catholic Community, Fr Francis thanked God for the “miracle” that the Blessed Sacrament had not been tampered with after the removal from the tabernacle.

The incident would not prohibit the celebration of Mass as it will be held at the chapel “as usual”, said Fr Francis. The police were investigating the matter.