In an incident, the gold-plated cross from St. Patrick Roman Catholic Parish’s main altar was stolen on Monday.
The theft occurred sometime between mid-morning and evening closure, church staff say.
The gold-plated cross was a cherished symbol of faith, which was set in the center of the main altar, on a pedestal above the tabernacle.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Bisbee Police Department at (520) 432-2261 or St. Patrick Church at (520) 432-5753.
As a safety measure, the church will now only open for scheduled services.
Community members are expressing both grief and determination to restore this important symbol of faith.
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