Heartless Church Burglars Steal Precious Christian Religious Artefacts

1595 Silver Chalice

Police are renewing appeals for information regarding several burglaries at a church in Chingford that included the theft of a historical and valuable silver chalice.

All Saints Church on Old Church Road has been burgled twice in a short period of time; the first on November 14, 2018 and the second on November 22.

Though nothing was stolen during the first burglary, there was damage to a window and doors totalling around £500.

On the second occasion, the suspect(s) made off with a safe containing thousands of pounds worth of church property.

Among the items taken, the church are very keen to recover one of their most prized possessions, a newly restored silver chalice – made in 1595 - which has extreme sentimental and historic value.

In total, six items of significant value were stolen from All Saints Church. Some of the property is believed to be more than 1,000 years old, with one item having distinct inscriptions and detailing.

Ciborium

Officers are looking for any information that the public may have on any of the missing objects.

Due to the unique features and significant age, it might be possible that someone has seen the silver chalice on social selling, web pages.

PC Nicole Garcia, who is investigating the burglary, said: “Since the first public appeal in February, we are sadly no closer to apprehending those responsible.

“These items hold significant spiritual and emotional value to the church and its community, who need them back.

“We once more appeal to anyone who may have witnessed when either of the burglaries occurred or have seen any items belonging to the church, to come forward and help our investigation.

“We need any information that can help return the missing items to their owners.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or anonymously by Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.