"The Archdiocese of Philadelphia operates a broad variety of programs aimed at assisting those in need," Gavin said. "Temporal hardships have increased dramatically as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. We are here to serve all those in need to the best of our ability."
"If individuals have fallen on hard times, they needn't be driven to thievery," he said. "They need only ask for assistance."
Muniz is being charged with several crimes, including institutional vandalism of a place of worship, theft by unlawful taking, criminal mischief, possession of an instrument of crime, and drug violations. He is being charged in two separate jurisdictions where he committed thefts.
In June, 2020, two men were arrested for a series of burglaries at churches in the Philadelphia area.
Another Catholic Church was targeted for theft last year in Boone, North Carolina. According to WXII 12 news, the local police department arrested a 54 year-old man on Feb. 12 for breaking and entering St. Elizabeth of the Hill County parish back in June, and stealing the tabernacle.
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Christine Rousselle is a former DC Correspondent for Catholic News Agency. Prior to working at CNA, she was the managing web editor of Townhall.com; she has a BA in political science from Providence College.