A major landmark in the history of St. Croix, the St. John’s Episcopal Church, has been the target of two recent break-ins, and church members are asking for the community’s help in identifying who may be involved.
In the two burglaries that occurred on Feb. 9 or Feb. 10 and then again sometime between Feb. 16 and Feb. 18, important, valuable equipment was stolen, said church member Ruthlyn Matthew.
Matthew suspects that the thieves may attempt to resell these stolen goods and is asking for the community to become vigilant.
Church volunteer for the media team Patricia Brown stated, “I can say all our electronic equipment that we use to do our livestream were stolen. We do bring our services live Sunday morning via Facebook and YouTube. As well as some of the equipment we use in house like the microphones for the podium, the in-house television, the projector that project images that delivers words, messages, and hymns.”
“Additionally, the books that were in pews, like the hymnals and prayer books. In the church office the electronic devices from their church office and conference room have been stolen as well,” said Brown.
The thieves did not stop there, they also damaged the church’s backup generator and printer in an attempt to steal parts. Members are still working through other items that were stolen or vandalized.
Thugs also disrupted the internet connection for the church which has since been replaced, but is not in perfect working condition due to the disruption caused by pulled wires.
The Source contacted the V.I. Police Department to find out about next steps and to receive any further updates regarding the burglary but were unable to receive a response by press.
According to a recent commentary written by Olasee Davis he said, St. John’s Episcopal Church was established in 1760 or 1761. The church was built on a hill of local limestone and bricks that came from Denmark in ships. It has a distinctive Gothic Revival English style and is located at the western entrance of King Street by the main entry to the town of Christiansted.
Anyone with any information regarding these unfortunate events is encouraged to contact Matthew at 340-690-7823 or Brown at 340-643-7648.
