Tabernacle stolen from Horizon’s Holy Spirit Catholic Church

HORIZON, Texas -- Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Horizon has had one of its most sacred objects stolen -- the tabernacle, which according to Catholic belief holds the body and blood of Christ.

The metal container is regarded as one of the most sacred objects in any Catholic Church and is used to house the Eucharist.

The parish priest immediately called police for help after the break-in and theft, but now a call has gone out through the whole Diocese as they ask Catholics to pray.

“It’s difficult for us to grasp who or why they could have done this,” said Father Jose Morales.

The church was broken into during the last week of October, and now Father Morales is putting out a statement to ask people for their help and prayers.

The loss and desecration came as a powerful blow to long-devoted parishioners.

“When we heard the news about it we felt bad, we couldn’t believe that it had happened here of course in the neighborhood and of course in a Catholic Church,” said Roberto Ceballos, who has been a church parishioner for 20 years.

The theft was not just a blow to their spirituality or sense of community, now their sense of safety is also being threatened.

“I don’t feel secure now... It's just a half-block away from my house,” Ceballos said.

For Father Morales, this theft was the same as someone breaking into his home. But on top of the theft, he said it’s the violation of the most sacred part of a church itself -- the physical presence of God. Now, he just wants to see the tabernacle and its sacrament back home.

“I don’t see the reason for something like this being done. We know God is merciful and if they would return what they took and repent it would be greatly appreciated, not just by us, but God will take that into account,” Father Morales said.

The Horizon Police department is investigating the theft and asks that you call police with any information on the case at (915) 852-1047.