A thief brazenly stole a gold-plated rose from a 9/11 memorial in Manhattan, desecrating a sacred tribute to fallen heroes and shocking the community.
Who would do that?
At a Glance
- A gold-plated rose, valued at $3,000, was stolen from a 9/11 memorial at the Church of St. Francis of Assisi in Manhattan
- The memorial includes steel from the World Trade Center wreckage and honors victims including Father Mychal Judge
- The suspect, known to church staff, was caught on surveillance footage and is wanted for grand larceny
- Church leaders express grief over the “act of desecration” but hope for the suspect’s rehabilitation
Shocking Theft Strikes at the Heart of 9/11 Remembrance
In a brazen act of theft that has left the Manhattan community reeling, a thief stole a gold-plated rose from a revered 9/11 memorial at the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. The incident, which occurred around 2:30 p.m. on a Wednesday, has been described by church leaders as “an act of desecration” against a sacred tribute to those who lost their lives in the September 11 attacks.
The stolen rose was part of a memorial that includes twisted steel from the World Trade Center wreckage, donated by a local ironworkers union 22 years ago. This intricate monument holds deep sentimental value for the families and friends of 9/11 victims, who visit the site to reflect and pay homage to their loved ones.
Gold-plated rose stolen from NYC 9/11 memorial honoring influential pastor https://t.co/vQKPhiCJGe
— The Associated Press (@AP) November 21, 2024
A Targeted Attack on Hallowed Ground
The theft has particularly stung the community due to its connection to Father Mychal Judge, the former pastor of the church and a chaplain for the New York Fire Department. Father Judge, known for his sacrificial love and advocacy for LGBTQ inclusion in the Catholic Church, was among the first recorded casualties of the 9/11 attacks.
The current pastor, Father Brian Jordan, expressed the church’s anguish over the theft. The stolen artwork, valued at approximately $3,000, holds far greater symbolic importance than its monetary worth. Its absence leaves a void in a memorial that stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of New York City and the nation in the face of tragedy.
“We’re grieved and saddened by this act of desecration,” Father Brian Jordan said.
Hunt for Justice and Hope for Redemption
Local law enforcement has intensified efforts to apprehend the suspect, who was captured on surveillance footage. The thief, described as known to church staff, had been asked to leave the premises multiple times, including twice on the day of the theft, due to “bizarre behavior.” He is now wanted for grand larceny.
Despite the gravity of the crime, the church’s response reflects a commitment to compassion and restorative justice. Father Jordan has expressed willingness to forgive the thief if he shows remorse and hopes that the individual will receive necessary psychological care. This approach aligns with the legacy of Father Judge, whose humanitarian efforts led to calls for his canonization following his death.
