Thieves broke into Panagia Kamariani Monastery, near Melbourne, Victoria and stole a priceless icon depicting the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus. The icon has always been very popular among the Greek Orthodox believers, especially those facing illness.
Georgie Marinis, the monastery secretary stated that the believers and clergy of the church were shocked to find the religious icon missing. “It doesn’t make any sense to us,” she said to the Herald Sun. “She’s a miraculous icon … Father Eleftherios Tatsis would take the icon to sick persons because they have the faith that she will help them get better,” Ms Marinis said.
The icon was often draped with offerings, some of which were also stolen during the burglary.
According to Marinis, the community hope the offenders make the right decision and return the priceless icon to the monastery.
Local police are investigating the case. This is not the first time that the church has fallen victim to robbery. In July 2014 offerings valued at more than 100,000 dollars were stolen from the church.
According to the report, an unknown number of thieves forcibly entered the church on January 30 at night. “It has caused a significant degree of distress to the congregation. It’s very important. It has religious significance but little monetary value,” Leading Sen-Constable Woolcock said to the Herald Sun.
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