Churches in Cape Town are facing a worrying increase in thefts, with robbers targeting worshippers and their belongings. This rise in crime has prompted concerns from the South African Council of Churches (SACC) about the vulnerability of these traditionally open and revered spaces.

On Monday, June 24, a church in Goodwood, a suburb of Cape Town, was the scene of a brazen robbery. Five armed individuals stormed the church, forcing worshippers to hand over their possessions. Western Cape Police Spokesperson Anelisiwe Manyana confirmed the incident, noting the offenders remain at large, leaving a sense of insecurity among the community.

Michael Weeder, Dean of St George's Cathedral, expressed his concerns after the Goodwood attack, and noted that while theft of congregants wasn't new, it had gotten worse lately:

"Churches have to now review how they receive offerings from people. It's a wonderful feeling when one can put money into the collection plate when attending services, but now churches are being compelled to be wiser about how we engage criminality. It's a very sad reality, but that is how we have to look at things going forward due to criminal activities taking place within our churches. We often had to advise congregants not to leave their bags on the benches or the ground when they come up for Holy Communion because of the thefts that would take place inside the church when congregants leave their belongings unattended."  

The SACC has voiced its alarm at the susceptibility of churches to crime. Reverend Sikawu Makubalo, the SACC provincial spokesperson, highlighted the increasing concern over churches being seen as soft targets. The former Dean of St George’s Cathedral, Michael Weeder, suggested that offerings might be the primary motive behind these thefts.

Weeder recounted his experiences, describing how thefts during services have eroded the sanctity and perceived safety of churches. He advised worshippers to be cautious with their belongings, particularly during Holy Communion. Despite these challenges, Weeder remains optimistic about church attendance, though he acknowledges the need for adjustments in how offerings are collected.

Pastor Nkosi Mbedzi of the Christian Reformed Church in Belhar expressed his concerns about escalating violence, especially in townships. He revealed that pastors have been victims of deadly attacks while delivering sermons.

In response to these incidents, many churches have started enhancing their security protocols. For instance, the Apostolic Faith Mission Church in Retreat now locks its doors and gates once services begin to protect congregants.

Cape Town churches are now grappling with the challenge of maintaining their principles of openness and accessibility while ensuring the safety of their worshippers. This delicate balance is crucial as they navigate the increasing threat of crime, hoping to preserve both the sanctity and security of their spaces.

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