NZ Columban’s house trashed, religious items stolen

Fr Donald Hornsey, who is listed in the New Zealand Catholic Directory as living in Lower Hutt, wrote about his experience and how his feelings about it changed over time.

“A number of saleable items were stolen such as my car, laptop, musical instruments and clothes, including a colourful Peruvian poncho,” Fr Hornsey wrote.

“The police did a great job, and the car was discovered undamaged the next day. An extensive forensic examination was made of my house and car, but incriminating fingerprints were not found, indicating that the robber must have worn gloves. No other items have been recovered. 

“My first feelings were of disbelief. How can this happen in a secure Columban property? Then came a feeling of anger. I felt personally insulted especially as so many religious objects had been stolen, including a Mass kit. Many other items were gifts that I had received which had a lot of sentimental value. The South American community and other good friends kindly gave me presents of several items but the great majority of what was taken is gone forever.” 

Fr Hornsey went on to discuss how his anger eventually turned to acceptance, and how this experience was a chance for him to put into practice the Beatitudes, including “Blessed are the poor in spirit”.

FULL STORY

Anger turned to acceptance (St Columbans Mission Society NZ)