Armenian church in Södertälje, Sweden, looted and vandalized

St. Mary’s Armenian Apostolic Church in Södertälje, Sweden, has been looted, valuable items have been stolen, TelgeNytt reports.

The police are now investigating the incident.

The exact time of the break-in is unknown, but it is supposed to have taken place on Wednesday night or ear;y this morning.

At the moment, it is unclear how many perpetrators were involved. The thief or thieves must have entered the church through a window that leads to a room adjucent to the church. This venue is used for baptisms, weddings and other events.

The stolen items are reported to be of great value and to have high sentimental value for the church.

“We didn’t expect this. We are facing an empty altar before Christmas,” Alexander Sharoyan, the church’s contact person, told TelgeNytt.

The police have launched an investigation into the burglary. The congregation and those affected are now waiting for more information while the investigation continues, in hopes of recovering the stolen items.

“I don’t know if this is a sign for something to come, but we will do everything to make our members feel safe,” says Alexander Sharoyan.