Tabernacle dating back to the 1890’s stolen from Brooklyn Church

New York— 05/28/22 — The Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn announced that the New York City Police Department is investigating a brazen crime of disrespect and hate, which desecrated the most Blessed Sacrament and the altar at St. Augustine Catholic Church, located at 116 6th Avenue in the Park Slope section of Brooklyn.

The burglar cut through a metal protective casing and made off with the Tabernacle, which dates back to when the church was built in the late 1890’s. The angels which flanked the Tabernacle were decapitated and destroyed, and the Blessed Sacrament housed inside the Tabernacle was thrown all over the altar.

New York State Catholic Action Chairperson James Russell said, “When is enough, enough!  Yet, again our churches have been desecrated.  Why is this incident not being considered a hate crime?  We encourage in the strongest terms possible that if you see something that isn’t right, say something!”

The burglary is suspected to have taken place on Friday, May 27, and was discovered by parish authorities on Saturday, May 28. A safe in the sacristy was also cut open, but nothing was inside. 

Anyone who may have information that can help police with their investigation is asked to call the NYPD at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).

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James Russell, New York State Catholic Action Chairman: