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CHICAGO (WLS) — Thieves have attacked a church in Brighton Park for the second time in weeks.
The latest incident on Sunday comes just a day later another Catholic church was hit in the Mount Greenwood neighborhood. Church and community leaders are concerned that this is a vulnerable time of year for places of worship.
The latest crime occurred overnight at the Immaculate Conception Five Holy Martyrs Church at 44th and California, Chicago police said.
“It was a shock, like, what’s going on?” said Father Miguel Venegas. “What’s going on?”
Father Venegas tries to make sense of a burglary, the second in his parish in as many weeks. Instead of focusing on observing the arrival, he must consider new security measures.
“An alarm, a system that not only prevents the theft of money, but also protects people’s safety,” Father Venegas said.
This is a moment of hope, a moment of joy, a moment of trust… it brings sadness, negativity and frustration to the community.
Father Miguel Venegas, Immaculate Conception Five Holy Martyrs
Surveillance video from Immaculate Conception Five Holy Martyrs shows a hooded man approaching the church at night. Another camera shows the same man inside, appearing to be looking around. He is finally seen leaving about 35 minutes later.
Father Venegas said the thief only got away with $100 to $200.
Ward 15 Councilman Ray Lopez is concerned that churches could be easy targets this time of year.
“Especially as we begin Advent here with the Catholic faith,” said Ald. Lopez said. “You know, there’s going to be a lot of people going to church, making donations and putting money into these buildings.”
On Friday morning, Saint Christina Catholic Church in the Mount Greenwood neighborhood was hit. According to police, the suspect broke a window to gain entry and then stole several items. The burglary suspect is in custody and charges are pending.
“We want to make sure that law enforcement pays all the attention they need to make sure this doesn’t become a routine event, not just in these churches, but throughout the city of Chicago over the next five weeks.” Ald. said Lopez.
While the money stolen from the Immaculate Conception of the Five Holy Martyrs will not have a lasting financial impact, Father Venegas says it is a dark cloud hanging over a festive time of year.
“This is a moment of hope, a moment of joy, a moment of faith, and this holy place, and it happens as if it brings sadness, negativity and frustration for the community,” Father Venegas said.
It was not clear whether the person seen on surveillance video in the most recent crime is the same person wanted for a burglary at the same church in mid-November.
Chicago police continue to investigate the crimes.
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