Within one week a church in Casale, Itlay, became both the target of theft and vandalism.
First 3000 litres of heating oil, worth several thousand euros were stolen and as a consequence 3 masses had to be held without heating. The parish community does not yet know how to afford further heating oil.
A few days later the church was also vandalised, for example by graffitis on the walls. The police has started an investigation.
The parish priest, Don Giuseppe, expressed his shock and sadness about the acts, saying: "The damage caused to the church, the uncorked bottles and the wine thrown all over the presbytery, benches, cushions and the seats of those who preside at the Eucharist, is hurtful, but the discomfort of those behind the vandalism is much worse."
Source: La Vita Casalese