The theft of a brass candlestick from a Carterton church has sparked a generous gift from the wider Catholic community - a gift with a Wairarapa connection.
St Mary's Carterton was targeted by thieves in September, when it's 150cm Paschal (Easter) candle holder was removed from the church, saddening its tight-knit congregation.
But the parishioners dejection turned to joy when Wellington man Shane Dinnan donated a large lamp holder from his personal collection to the church.
St Mary's lay pastoral leader, Sharron Penny, said Mr Dinnan, who attends St Benedict's Catholic Church in Khandallah, had seen the Times-Age coverage of the theft online and was moved to offer his assistance.
"He rang me, and said the lamp holder was 'just sitting around' at his place, and asked if we'd like it," said Ms Penny.