Diocesan News
Archbishop of Dublin appeals for the return of the head of 800 year old mummy
“The priority now is the return of the head with good will on all sides.”
Almost one week after the theft of the head of the 800 year old mummy known as ‘The Crusader’ from the crypt of St Michan’s Church, Dublin, the Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson, has made a further plea for its safe return.
Intruders entered the historic crypt of the church sometime on Saturday night/Sunday morning, February 23/24. They desecrated the crypt and disturbed some of the other remains before detaching The Crusader’s head and leaving with it.
Garda investigations into the theft of the mummified remains and the desecration of the crypt continue. However, the fear is that the longer the head of The Crusader remains outside the micro climate in which it has lain for centuries, the more decomposition will set in.
Archbishop Jackson has made the following appeal:
“Since the removal of the head of The Crusader from the crypt of St Michan’s Church, Church Street, Dublin 7, many people have sought to be as helpful as possible in the local community and further afield in Ireland and beyond. This is hugely appreciated.
“Both Archbishops of Dublin, along with the Archdeacon of Dublin who has direct responsibility for St Michan’s Church, are very concerned that the head be returned to its rightful place.
“To make this possible, Gardaí wish to hear from anyone who has in his or her possession, or who knows the whereabouts of, the head. Contact can be made anonymously by telephoning The Bridewell Garda Station on 01 666 8200 or any Garda station. The priority now is the return of the head with good will on all sides.
“Alternatively you can make contact with Archdeacon Pierpoint on 01 830 4601 or through the diocesan website at www.dublin.anglican.org/contact–us.
“Worship continues as normal in St Michan’s each Sunday at 10.00am and St Paul’s Chapel remains open for private prayer on a daily basis.
“If you are able to help in any way it will greatly be appreciated as it is now almost a week since the head of The Crusader disappeared.”
For further information please contact:
Diocesan Communications Officer, Dublin & Glendalough
087 235 6472
Mrs Lynn Glanville
dcodublin@gmail.com