Faith
Sacred Treasures Slip Away from a Faithful English Village – Will God’s Light Restore Them?
Faith Facts
- Pastor Mark Bridgen called the theft a sacrilege, noting the corporate loss to the community that owns them.
- A 94-year-old verger discovered the crime, stunned by the violation after decades of faithful service.
- Rural churches like this Anglican one stay unlocked for prayer, but openness now invites such spiritual attacks.
Thieves stole priceless communion silver over 400 years old from St. Margaret of Antioch Church in Barley, Hertfordshire, England, just before Easter.
The sacred items, including two chalices, a silver flagon, a paten, and a box of silver objects, hold an estimated value of £25,000 and date to 1612-1619.
These vessels, central to Holy Communion and village worship traditions, represent irreplaceable Christian heritage.
Let us pray for recovery of these sacred Communion treasures, vigilance over God’s houses, and strength for believers guarding our faith heritage.