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THIEVES have broken into Warrnambool's St Joseph's church and stolen cash while a priest slept.
Detective Senior Constable Ashlea Witham, of the Warrnambool police crime investigation unit, said the church, offices and sleeping quarters were ransacked - except the room where Father John Fitzgerald was asleep.
The break-in at the St Joseph’s Church, on the east end of the block bounded by Raglan Parade, Kepler Street and Lava Street, happened in the early hours of Friday last week.
"Two offenders gain entry to the church and spent time ransacking the office," she said.
"An offender also went to the presbytery where Father John was asleep.
“Every single room was search except the room where Father John was in bed."
A small amount of cash was stolen during the burglary.
“It appears the offenders were wearing gloves and balaclavas. The break-in is believed to have been committed between 4am and 6am,” Detective Senior Constable Witham said.
“Anyone with information about this disturbing crime is requested to contact the Warrnambool police CIU or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000,” she said.