St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, Toms River, became the target of vandalism overnight Dec. 17-18 as a person or persons unknown threw a brick through a stained glass window at the back of the chapel.
Nisha Maharaj-McFarlane, parish business administrator, reported the brick was found on the floor of the chapel early Dec. 18 by a maintenance man, who noticed a large hole in the window depicting the resurrected Christ. An investigation led to the conclusion that the brick was not from the property.
Father Stephen W. Piga, pastor, enlisted the help of the Toms River Police Department.
“It was quite a shock to see this evil and cowardly act that morning,” Father Piga said. “The first thing I did was let Bishop O’Connell know about it since he is the head of each and every church in our Diocese. He responded with sympathy and encouragement, which was a big help.”
Father Piga also praised the parish staff, notably Maharaj-McFarlane, who were quick to action. “A tip of the hat to all the wonderful business managers out there in their parishes. They do not get enough thanks.”
This was not the first incident of vandalism at the Toms River church, whose property is at the end of Mule Road. Over the past six months, lit M80 firecrackers have been found in a nearby creek, and last summer the parish’s HVAC system was smashed.
Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Toms River Police Department at (732) 349-0150.