Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

A file photo of the Relic of the True Cross which was stolen from a church in Co Laois on Wednesday. Garda Press Office

'Relic of the True Cross' stolen from Co Laois church

A 3mm-by-3mm piece of wood, kept in a pewter case, was stolen from a case inside Holy Cross Church in Co Laois.

A RELIC containing a piece of what is thought to be the cross upon which Jesus Christ was crucified has been stolen from a church in Co Laois.

Gardaí this afternoon revealed that the ‘Relic of the True Cross’ was taken from Holy Cross Church in Killeshin, just east of Portlaoise, at some time between 10am and 5:30pm on Wednesday.

The piece of the cross – measuring about 3mm by 3mm – was kept in a pewter case which was embedded within the wall of the church. It had been presented to the church shortly after it was built in 1822.

Gardaí said the relic had no monetary value, but was of “enormous spiritual value” to the church and its parishioners.

Officers investigating the theft have asked anyone who visited the church between 10am and 6pm on Wednesday to get in touch.

Gardaí in Abbeyleix can be contacted at (057) 8730580, while anyone with information can also contact the Garda Confidential telephone line at 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

Read: Ireland’s ancient relics – what are they and how have they survived?

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Close
58 Comments
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.
    JournalTv
    News in 60 seconds