Police investigating fire at Plymouth church office

PLYMOUTH, Mass. (WHDH) -- Fire officials are investigating a fire that broke out overnight at the parish office of Saint Bonaventure Church in Plymouth.

The police department is calling the fire suspicious.

Father Ken Oberbeck is the pastor at the church. He said someone or some people got into the building Monday night and stole items, including electronics, and set what appears to be three fires.

The crime baffled the community.

“If you’re going to steal, you steal and you go. Why set a fire and call attention to yourself?” asked Oberbeck.

Father Oberbeck said the damage was contained to an office -- desks, chairs and a filing cabinet were among the things damaged. Oberbeck said the church is trying to figure out exactly what was stolen and why.

“It’s very mind boggling. I mean, why would somebody do this?” said Frank Cappucci, a parishioner.

Father Oberbeck said he doesn’t know why the church was targeted, but said they will continue on as normal. The parish office was closed Tuesday morning, but mass continued as usual for the church, which sees 1,600 worshippers a weekend.

“I think everybody’s gotta accept responsibility for our actions, so I would like them to do that -- accept the responsibility here. Forgiveness follows that acceptance,” said Oberbeck.