Two teenagers accused of damaging organ and sound system at Irwin church
IRWIN, Pa. (KDKA) -- Police have identified two teenagers accused of damaging property at the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Irwin.
Father John Moineau shared photos and videos on social media and said that on Friday, two teenagers went into the church's choir loft and tampered with the organ and sound system.
As a result, the church was unable to use the organ for the first two Holy Communion masses the following morning.
"It was an important sacramental day for our parish and the children and their families were affected by the two teenager's (sic) actions," Father Moineau said on Facebook. "All churches are sacred places which should be treated with respect."
People in Irwin know this is a tight-knit community, especially in the church. That's why parishioners like Paul Serwonski were disappointed.
"For somebody to come in and do that, I think it's a disgrace," said Serwonski.
It's a place of worship that is accessible to the congregation year-round.
"It's open for people to come in and pray and do their services, that's why we have it open on a continuous basis to the public," Serwonski said.
Irwin Police Chief Dan Wensel said the community helped with identification. Wensel said they've spoken with the boys' parents and so far, the church wants to wait to press potential charges.
"Father John just wants to talk to them and their families at this time," said Wensel.
Police consider this specific incident minor.
"Nothing too extensive. It didn't look like they were up there to do any vandalism or anything. More just curiosity it looks like and pressing some buttons and pulling some knobs that they shouldn't have," Wensel said.
Wensel said it's rare in Irwin and they're prepared.
"Letting everybody know if someone does decide to come down into Irwin, you know the cameras are here, the police are here, and our community looks after one another," said Wensel.