Father Predrag Grubacki wearing the robe that was taken from the church. Photo: Supplied
After a desperate public plea, precious religious garments stolen from a Wellington church have been returned - complete with an apology note.
Just after 2am on Tuesday, CCTV footage showed a trio wandering into the Serbian Orthodox Church on The Parade in Island Bay, priest Father Predrag Grubacki said.
When they left, one was carrying his robe and hat - "sanctified pieces" that should not be worn by anyone except priests, he said.
"I do realise that they look like a costume, and maybe those youngsters took it for fun. But without knowing, they are desacralising it, by using it in the purpose they are not meant to be used."
The robe and cap were returned with an apology note. Photo: Supplied
A plea for their return was posted on social media, but the theft was not reported to police - Grubacki was hopeful those who took it would do the right thing.
And when he arrived at the temple for Thursday evening's service, he came across a bag, with his robe, cap, and an apology note inside.
"He said sorry for the troubles and stress," Grubacki said.
"He promised he won't be coming again and doing such a thing again, he learned his lesson."
Upon finding the bag, Grubacki was "super happy" - and said there were "no hard feelings" against the thief.
The thief signed the letter with his first name, which Grubacki chose not to share - he was just relieved they seemed to realise how important the garments were.
"It means a lot not just for me, but for our small community here in Wellington.
"I would gladly shake his hand."
The items had been in Grubacki's possession for eight years since he had become a priest, and he brought them from Serbia to Aotearoa when he emigrated seven years ago.
They were "just a piece of cloth" to others, but had a special meaning and purpose for worshipping, and could not be replaced in New Zealand, Grubacki said.