Church emergency food pantry robbed

URBANA, Ohio (WDTN) - Champagne County sheriff's officials were looking for two men who robbed a Church, and stole food from their emergency food pantry.

It happened at the House of Prayer off Wesley Chapel Lane, in Champagne County.

Pastor David Miller said, the two men broke in through the side window of the Church and ransacked the entire building, causing about $6,000 in damages.

It was a big blow for the small rural church, that was almost a century old. The history, tradition, and faith inside were shaken by the two thieves. Church staff said, not only did they steal the sound system, which had just been replaced after the last one was stolen, but the thieves also broke down doors and windows.

Pastor Miller said, the thieves went into the Church's emergency food pantry in the basement, stole food, toiletry items, and a donation jar filled with money to buy food. The food pantry fed about 140 people from Champagne and Logan county, each onth.

"If they rob God, they'll rob anybody. They'll take anything," said Miller. who said, he felt very discouraged.

The Church had shut down their food pantry program, until they were able to complete repairs.

Miller said, that meant, hundreds of people would have to find another source for food.

"Turn yourselves in. Quit doing what you're doing because you're doing this to the Lord and we're praying for your souls," said Miller, addressing the thieves.

Sheriff's officials said two other churches were broken into on the same night. If you have any information that will help authorities solve this crime call (937) 222-STOP or (937) 222-7867. You can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.