Missionaries restoring a Texas church building are back at work making repairs to a sanctuary destroyed by Tropical Storm Imelda.  Repair work stopped last week after a thief stole thousands of dollars’ worth of tools and supplies.

An Orange County, Texas Sheriff’s Office spokesperson told Texas Gospel Canada that volunteers with Mission America Placement Service were restoring the building of the Mauriceville Assembly of God Church.  Someone climbed a wall to get inside the damaged structure and left with the volunteer’s property. 12News reports at least $8,000 worth of equipment was taken in the theft.

The criminal act stopped the volunteer’s work for a short while.  Reconstruction was able to continue thanks to a Business man in the community. KOGT Radio in Orange, Texas reports Chad Havens, who owns Bridgefield Electric, saw a news report about the theft.  He contacted the group and bought new tools and supplies to replace what was taken.

Deputies have not yet identified a suspect.