Thank you to all who wrote to express their support and faith for the parish community of Saint Augustine during this unsettling time. The past few days since the horrific desecration of our beautiful historic Church – the burglary and theft of our Tabernacle – have been trying.

Please know that I welcome and appreciate your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. I continue to work with the New York City Police Department in their effort to find this brazen burglar. This burglary not only stole a piece of our church’s history but in stealing our Tabernacle, an act of sacrilege was also committed. It was most disturbing to find the Holy Eucharist, the Body of Christ, strewn amidst the destruction. 

I know in the media there has been much attention given to the monetary value of our Tabernacle. But the reality is that it is irreplaceable, as it was donated by the parishioners who built Saint Augustine. I hope that it is found intact, but as each hour passes, of course, it seems more unlikely.  I am sensitive to the ongoing investigation and do not wish to compromise the work of the NYPD or any of the associated agencies assisting us. 

Perhaps, along with praying to St Augustine, we should pray to St. Anthony to help us recover our Tabernacle. We must also pray for the person who committed this horrible act, as they clearly have lost their way and faith plays no role in their life.

I apologize you had to learn about this burglary from the news media. As I receive updates on this investigation, as I am able, I will be in communication with you and the other faithful parishioners who are saddened and in disbelief. 

To express his care and concern, Bishop Robert Brennan will join us for Mass on Saturday, June 4, 2022.  To facilitate his request, the 5:00 PM Mass usually celebrated at Saint Francis Xavier, will be moved to Saint Augustine for this week only.  More information will be forthcoming. 

I am grateful to all of those who have communicated their prayers and concern for the parish and for me personally.

May God continue to bless our parish and our faithful community.

Sincerely, 

Rev. Frank C. Tumino