In a disheartening incident, St. Mary’s Catholic Church located at 21 Athlunkard Street in Limerick fell victim to a robbery. Overnight, unidentified individuals broke into the church, targeting the poor box and making off with a sum of money estimated to be between 12 and 14 shillings.
The burglars gained access to the premises by smashing the glass of the porch window, subsequently manipulating the lock of the box after entering through the sacristy door. The audacity of the crime was further magnified by the fact that this marks the second time the church’s poor box has been plundered in recent times.
The robbery was promptly reported to the local Constabulary, and Sergeant Leatty took swift action by apprehending a woman named Mary Mason on suspicion of involvement. She has since been remanded in custody while the police conduct their inquiries into the matter.
The recurrence of such incidents within the sacred walls of the church has left the community deeply disturbed. Parishioners and clergy members alike are grappling with feelings of shock and disappointment over the violation of their sacred space.
The authorities are determined to bring those responsible to justice and restore a sense of security to the church and its congregation. In the meantime, heightened security measures may be implemented to prevent further incidents and protect the valuable offerings meant for the less fortunate.
Kerry News – Friday 21 August 1903