'The Good Thief': Stolen Jesus statue returns in glory!

The statue of Jesus in all its restored glory featured on WFSB news WFSB News

The Bible does talk about Jesus returning in glory, but for one gift shop owner this happened in an unexpected manner.

Midge Saglimbene owns a religious gift shop in Connecticut. He says a faded 4ft statue of Christ was stolen, only to reappear with a fresh coat of paint.

"I was devastated. I was crying, I was like 'I can't believe this. This can't be'," Saglinbene told WFSB.

The chipped and faded statue, which was donated to the shop, was taken last week. The sculpture, worth about $600, was not for sale as it held special significance for Saglimbene.

The owner of Angels & Company store said she prayed to St Anthony, the patron saint of lost things, for it to be returned.

She also called the police but before they could trace the thief the statue returned, having been restored to its former glory. The faded orange shawl was repainted bright scarlet and the beard had been retouched.

Although the "good thief," (as Saglimbene labelled him) left a note, she has no clue as to his identity. However she told Daily News that she hoped the mystery person would reveal themselves.

"I just want to thank them," she said. "It was a really, really nice gesture, and I just want them to know how much we appreciate it."

"He looks beautiful. He looks different," she said.

related articles
Mosul churches being used as slaughterhouses by ISIS
Mosul churches being used as slaughterhouses by ISIS

Mosul churches being used as slaughterhouses by ISIS

Oklahoma: Controversial Ten Commandments monument removed under cover of night
Oklahoma: Controversial Ten Commandments monument removed under cover of night

Oklahoma: Controversial Ten Commandments monument removed under cover of night

Faith under fire: The astonishing story of Edith Cavell, shot 100 years ago today
Faith under fire: The astonishing story of Edith Cavell, shot 100 years ago today

Faith under fire: The astonishing story of Edith Cavell, shot 100 years ago today

Nine statues and frescoes at Montserrat who just. can't. even. right now

Nine statues and frescoes at Montserrat who just. can't. even. right now

News
Princess of Wales to lead Westminster Abbey carol service, celebrating kindness and community
Princess of Wales to lead Westminster Abbey carol service, celebrating kindness and community

This evening, the Princess of Wales, Catherine, is set to revisit Westminster Abbey to preside over her fifth Together at Christmas carol service - a seasonal gathering that places acts of kindness and community at the heart of its celebrations.

Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest
Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest

Of the eight children murdered during lockdown, 7 were killed thanks to the actions of a step parent or new partner.

Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fourth year running
Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fourth year running

Abortion was legalised in Northern Ireland in 2019.

Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high
Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high

Across the country, people are looking to the church for help.