Toronto police are investigating a break-and-enter at a church in Scarborough on Wednesday.
Police say the incident, which occurred at St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Forane Church on Ionview Road, was reported to them at approximately 9 a.m.
Const. Ashley Visser said someone gained entry into the church and stole property. She did not say what items were taken.
Police do not have suspect information at this time.
A statement from the church’s office said “highly specific and sacred religious relics of tremendous significance to the Catholic faith” and the key to the Tabernacle were stolen.
The church added that its parish offices were also ransacked and records were destroyed.
“The theft of relics and the Tabernacle key has caused profound concern within the faith community, as these items hold deep spiritual, historical, and religious importance far beyond material value,” the church said in the statement.
It noted the incident may have been deliberate and intentional. Police have not confirmed what the motive behind the theft was.
Church officials and police are asking anyone with information to come forward.
