St Michael's Church in Shroid, Co. Longford was broken into, burgled and vandalised overnight. 

The break-in was discovered early this morning and it has been reported that the church alter was damaged and that several items, including the tabernacle, were stolen. 

"It is extremely upsetting for the parishioners and the clergy here in Longford that something like this could happen, but especially during Holy Week," Bishop Francis Duffy told The Longford Leader. 

"This act of desecration is disrespectful to religion and to the local community."

Gardaí in Longford are investigating the robbery. 

Anyone with information is asked to contact Longford Garda Station on 043-3350570.

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