New Life Chapel in Wodonga has been damaged in a break-in that "wasn't very fruitful" for two hooded offenders.
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Wodonga detectives believe between 9 and 9.30pm on Monday, two people wearing jumpers and gloves forced entry into the chapel on De Kerilleau Drive.
"They've forced entry through a rear roller-door to gain access to the premises," Detective Sergeant Graeme Simpfendorfer said.
"They've disguised themselves with articles of clothing, they've come with tools to manipulate locks and doors.
"They've spent a significant amount of time inside, and they've destroyed numerous doors, draws, cabinets, et cetera, looking for what we believe is cash.
"We think they've been inside for almost an hour - they've been very determined to target some safes within the building.
"We're reviewing CCTV footage from here and surrounding properties."
The main impact to the chapel will be damages, with a few hundred dollars in petty cash stolen.
Senior Pastor Michael Geerling said up to 10 rooms had been damaged in the disappointing incident.
"We're here to serve our city and region, and this takes time and focus away from doing that," he said.
"During the week we have a number of services that are held for worship and prayer, this could slow that down, but more than that we have programs that help people in our community ... that will be impacted."
One of those programs is related to food relief; about 50 food parcels are packed during the week for people in need and then distributed.
Mr Geerling said money made by the chapel went back into the community and now repairs would have to be paid for.
"We've had property damage over the years, vehicles and buildings, things like that," he said.
"Just this last Sunday, we presented to our church congregation our local, national and overseas programs we'll be working on in 2020.
"My message to the offenders would be: I'd love to have a coffee with you and help you rebuild your life."
Detective Sergeant Simpfendorfer urged anyone with information to contact police.
"The damage will be in the thousands, and time and disruption to the chapel will be significant," he said.
IN OTHER NEWS:
"There's complete disregard for the community and those who need help, so we're really keen to catch these guys quickly.
"If the public has any information, we encourage them to contact us."
Anyone with information should contact Wodonga Police on (02) 6049 2600 or Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000.