The Thiells Garnerville United Methodist Church, or TGUMC, says someone allegedly stole a Christmas tree from their Thiells property sometime overnight between Monday and Tuesday earlier this week.

It stood outside their front entrance for years during the holidays.

The tree "gave the gift of warmth" meaning people could attach winter weather gear to it like gloves, scarves, and hats for those in need. Fortunately, the church still has a number of scarves made by their crochet group.

"The Christmas season is more, much more than just a holiday to us cause through Christmas we want to share love," said Pastor Woo Lim Kwak. "We want to show hope. We want to share peace with people."

The pastor their camera was not working that night.

While it seems like the Grinch stole Christmas, they're keeping the faith.

"We are so sad that the tree was gone like that, but we pray that the tree and the collected items are with someone who are in need," said Pastor Kwak.

While TGUMC won't be putting another tree up, they are asking for the public to help them in their holiday mission by bringing items to their thrift shop on Thursdays and Saturdays when it is open between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. now through Jan. 26.

Everything will then go to local organizations that serve others.

Haverstraw police say they are investigating the incident.