A historic church in Philadelphia’s Northern Liberties neighborhood has suffered another setback, as the cherished Baby Jesus statue from its nativity scene was stolen. This theft comes just a year after vandals caused $40,000 worth of damage to the church’s stained-glass windows.
The decades-old Baby Jesus statue, considered an heirloom of the National Shrine of Saint John Neumann, was taken around January 6. The nativity scene is traditionally displayed next to the remains of Saint John Neumann at the corner of North 5th Street and Girard Avenue.
Father Kingsbury, the shrine’s pastor, emphasized the spiritual significance of the statue, noting it holds more sentimental than monetary value.
This theft follows the vandalism of three stained-glass windows last February, which required costly repairs and replacements. The windows were recently restored, now with an added protective layer.
Authorities are searching for a person of interest seen on the church’s surveillance footage. The suspect reportedly exhibited “suspicious behavior” in other locations before the theft.
Father Kingsbury expressed hope that the Baby Jesus statue will be returned intact.
“If you could return it and want to do it quietly, just leave it anywhere in the shrine, and we’ll find it,” he said. “If you want to talk about it, we’re open to hearing what was on your mind. Maybe we can help.”
Police continue their investigation, and the shrine remains open for prayer and reflection. Parishioners are encouraged to pray for the statue’s safe return and for the person responsible to come forward.
This latest incident highlights ongoing challenges faced by historic churches, which serve as both spiritual havens and cultural treasures for the community.
