COMPTON, CA (August 27, 2010) – Staff and volunteers of Centro Hispano de Estudios Teológicos (CHET) said a burglary of the school’s new facility only confirms the decision to move into this neighborhood.

The thieves drilled out the back entrance lock to gain access to the building on Monday. “They took one very important and valuable Macintosh computer, a loaned power-wash sprayer needed to prepare for the painting of the exterior, and several other small electronic items,” said President Ed Delgado.

“God was good as most things of value were still in boxes or locked in storage closets,” Delgado said.

Construction still is ongoing in part of the building, which is being rehabbed. The school, which is The Evangelical Covenant Church’s Hispanic training center, moved to its new location less than two weeks ago from its previous location at Primera Iglesia del Pacto in Bell Gardens.

“The move, with the help of 25 volunteers and the gift of a 53-foot truck had been a labor of love,” Delgado said. The response to the burglary has strengthened faith in CHET’s mission.

“The staff and volunteers soberly resolved to lean into and fulfill God’s call of CHET to Compton, so as to preach the good news in word and deed in this needy place, and beyond,” Delgado said. “They see this as a first opportunity—even in the midst of loss and before CHET doors officially open for classes and mentoring—to interact positively with each other, neighbors, and local police.”

Cathy Barsotti, a long-time teacher and mentor at CHET, added, “These are truly exciting days and every day is a day to praise God.”

Classes still are scheduled to begin September 13.