Metal thieves have continued their hit on churches across the UK, stripping metal from a church roof just days before a massive restoration project was due to be completed.
Thieves targetted St Mary's Church in Garsington on Tuesday night, stealing copper and lead from the roof and guttering of the 12th century holy building.
The damage to the church has been disheartening to the congregation, coming at a time when many were preparing to celebrate the completion of restoration work on the church costing more than £200,000. The thieves, however, have caused damage estimated at £50,000 just a week before the work's conclusion.
The famous church was used for the wedding scene in the hit film Amazing Grace, but now the church's historical parapet stonework has been smashed and dislodged by the thieves.
The church said it hopes the damage costs will be covered by insurance and further fundraising.
Church Warden Mike Rothery branded the thieves "mindless vandals", according to the BBC.
A special celebration service for the church's completed restoration was scheduled for 14 October. This is now likely to be postponed until the new repairs have taken place.
In a statement, Rothery added: "We cannot any longer say that the works are nearly complete, and will give a revised date as soon as we are able to."
-
Evangelical vicar accused of abuse won't stand trial
-
Christians protest LGBT nativity play where Jesus is 'King of the Gays'
-
Sarah Mullally reiterates apology as safeguarding record comes under the spotlight
-
The origins of ‘traditional’ Christmas celebrations
-
The mystery of the Wise Men
-
Pro-life campaigner who silently prayed in abortion clinic buffer zone criminally charged
Most Popular
News
The first Christmas song to be sung in churches
Every Christmas, people sing the song “While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night”. Unlike many other songs and carols that include elements of non-biblical tradition and myth, this song is pure Scripture. It was the first Christmas song authorised to be sung in the Church of England. This is the story …
The story of the Christmas Truce of 1914
On Christmas Eve in 1914, many men were in the trenches fighting the war, but the spirit of Christmas halted the conflict for a brief period. This is the story …
Report highlights injustices experienced by Christians in the Holy Land
Jerusalem Church leaders have released a report detailing the struggles and challenges currently faced be Christians living in the Holy Land.
Have you lost the wonder of Christmas?
For you who have been followers of Jesus Christ for a long time, maybe the pain and suffering of this world and the darkness you have had to live through this past year has gotten you down to the point of complete and utter discouragement. But all is not lost.