Police: 2 Scott Twp. churches robbed of small amounts of money

SCOTT TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Police are investigating robberies at two Scott Township churches that authorities said may be connected.

Authorities said Saints Simon and Jude and Our Lady of Victory had money stolen from donation boxes.

Father Jay Donahue said the votive candles money box at Saints Simon and Jude that was stolen only contained about $40. He said it was ripped from its bolted stand during the day, when the church is left open.

"People come here to really pray and light a candle to light the darkness they feel in their heart," Donahue said. "They'll kneel here and place $3 as an offering and then light a candle."

Donahue said the theft as his parish, as well as nearby Our Lady of Victory, reflect the level of desperation many people feel.

"You look at the economic situation of families, and where we're going. People live in desperate times," Donahue said.

Donahue said neither church plans on locking its doors, but they'll change the way donations are collected.

Church leaders said they hope the thefts don't diminish the spirit of the holiday season.

Anyone with information on the robberies is asked to contact police.

WPXI