A bronze altar cross was stolen from the altar of a church in Emmerich am Rhein, directly targeting a central Christian symbol. The removal of the cross from the altar has raised concern within the local parish.
The incident occurred on 20 February 2025 at the St. Aldegundis Church, where an unknown individual removed a bronze cross from the altar. The cross, measuring approximately 35 by 25 centimetres, dates back to the 1960s and forms part of the church’s post-war inventory.
The act specifically affected an object placed on the altar, a focal point of Christian worship. The perpetrator was recorded on the church’s video surveillance system, and the footage has been handed over to the police. Authorities have opened an investigation and are appealing for information. Despite the incident, the church remains open for prayer.