To the editor:

I write to share happy news. Earlier, I had written to report a theft at Saint Barnabas.

Today, I write to tell you that the documents have been found and have been returned.

Thanks to a kind and thoughtful family, who were clearing brush in Poulsbo, the box and the documents were found and the Kitsap County Sheriff’s office notified. They, in turn, notified the Bainbridge Island Police, who took charge of the case and returned the documents to the church within a week of the theft.

I want to thank that family, Deputy Sheriff Fortenbacher of the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Department, Officer Carla Sias and Detective Ziemba, both from Bainbridge Island Police Department for their thoughtful, professional attention to this small case. They were kind, dedicated and worked beyond the bounds of duty to return these precious documents to us. Detective Ziemba worked until 7:30 p.m. on a Friday to ensure that I could bring the documents home before Sunday worship. It was a joyous moment for our congregation brought about by the kindness and thoughtfulness of others.

We are deeply grateful to all who helped this case end so happily. Good news may not sell newspapers, but it gladdens many hearts.

THE REV. DR. DENNIS S. TIERNEY Rector

Saint Barnabas Episcopal Church