Grace Church prepares for craft fair after early morning break-in
A young man damaged windows and a door around 2 a.m. Tuesday, causing approximately $4,000 in repairs before the event scheduled for this weekend.
By Connor Murphy ·
Grace Church in Albuquerque will hold its Holly Day Craft Fair this weekend despite a break-in that occurred just days prior.
Pastor Aaron Giesler stated that the incident happened around 2 a.m. on Tuesday. A young man threw rocks through four windows and a television. He then broke a door to gain entry into the building. He remained inside for about 25 minutes before leaving with several Bibles. The total cost of the damage is estimated at $4,000.
Giesler explained that the individual was talking to a family member during the visit. The pastor said the man wanted to be inside the church to address personal matters he was facing. Giesler described the man as having a difficult day and expressed compassion rather than anger. He does not plan to press charges and does not believe the incident qualifies as a hate crime.
The church has a long history with the local community. It has supported an orphanage in India since the 1990s. That facility currently houses about 100 children. The craft fair funds missions, building maintenance, and food for the orphanage. Giesler noted that the church has supported the orphanage since the 1990s.
After the church shared details of the break-in on social media, community members reached out to offer help. Some residents offered to cover repair costs or provide services. Giesler said the response has been supportive. The vendor fees collected at the fair go directly to mission work. There is no charge for attendees to enter the event.
The Holly Day Craft Fair will take place over two days at the church. More than 100 vendors will display items throughout the building. The event is scheduled for Friday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. It continues on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Giesler said the church will move forward with the planned schedule. He emphasized that the fair helps fund buildings and food for the orphanage in India. The pastor said the community's response has been positive. The event remains open to the public with no admission fee.
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