All cases

Arson in the Church of San Gaspare del Bufalo in Albano Laziale

August 21, 2020, Italy

On August 21st the door of the church of San Gaspare del Bufalo in Albano Laziale was first drenched with gasoline and then purposefully set on fire. The church is a dearly held place of worship for many pilgrims, who come to the church every year, as well as for the locals. The priest of the parish and one candidate for the major's office of the city see a clear indication of bias, as the damage was intended to be devastating. They both do not perceive this attack, as a form of vandalism but of brutal arson and destruction. It is also speculated that the crime was instigated by satanist groups but the police is currently investigating in all directions.

Cross vandalized in Saint-Aubin-d'Aubigné

August 21, 2020, France

On August 21st, a local resident provided photos of a broken wayside cross. It was then repaired by the town council. The cross had already been knocked off its pedestal once in 2019.

Vandals Damaged Cemetery, Presbytery and Atrium of San Vicente Church

August 20, 2020, Spain

In San Vicente de O Grove, a group of hooligans caused damage to the church atrium, the parish cemetery, and the rectory, which were currently undergoing a rehabilitation to make a youth camp and to receive visitors. The perpetrators had alcoholic drinks in the cemetery.

Stained-Glass Windows of Chruch Vandalized in Grisy-les-Plâtres

August 20, 2020, France

Unkown perpetrators vandalized the stained-glass windows in the Church of St. Caprais, a monument in Grisy-les-Platres. The exact date of the incident is still unclear- There were six holes, an apple and the broken glass were found on the floor of the building. The Mayor filed a complaint, as for him this was an act of disrespect and aggression to a public good and a local heritage. There will be a fence to protect the glass and restorations will be made.

Arson at the Church of Saint-Pierre in Macon

August 20, 2020, France

In the morning of August 20th, a fire was set in the church of Saint-Pierre in Macon Downtown. The fire targeted the artificial flowers decorating the side chapels of the building. Witnesses alerted the fire department and tried to controlled the flames by using a tablecloth. Another fire was brought under control on Tuesday, when the church was closed. The parishioners suspect it was started by a group of young people who were seen running away.

Statue of Our Lady of Lourdes and The Staue of Bernadette in Santa Rita Parish Vandalized

August 20, 2020, Italy

On the Morning of 20th August, it was reported that the Statue of Our Lady of Lourdes, which was in a niche in Via Massarenti in Bologna, was vandalized. The police started investigations to identify the responsible vandals. The Statue was in the parish of Santa Rita. Another statue of Bernadette was also damaged. The parish priest said this was not the first time that this happens.

Saint-Auban Church Vandalized And Soiled With Urine, Excrements And Alcohol

August 19, 2020, France

On the night of 19th to 20th August, one or more perpetrators broke into the Church of Saint-Auban in Château-Arnoux-Saint-Auban. The individuals lighted a dozen candles that were encased in plastic and let them burn on the tablecloth, which covered the altar in the center of the building. There were also cigarette buds, excrement, urine and alcohol found in front of the door of the church.

Graffiti Found Several Times in the Saint Agatha Chapel

August 19, 2020, France

In the Saint-Agathe Chapel in Saint-Desiré, an inscription referring to a children programme in television was written for several days on the wall. The last time it was painted on the 19th August in red. The municipality decided to file a complaint with the police.

Repeated Vandalism for Seven Consecutive Days in Lutheran Evangelical Church

August 18, 2020, Sweden

For seven consecutive days until the 18th August, the Lutheran Evangelical Church in Malmö suffered vandalism. During this time, the statue of Jesus inside the building was destroyed and around thirty windows were smashed with stones. The services were suspended to clean the church and a security company was hired to patrol during the night. The reasons for these attacks are still uncertain, police is investigating.

The Statue of the Madonna Vandalized

August 18, 2020, Italy

A few days before the 18th August, the parish priest Don Franco Nannipieri discovered the act of vandalism in the oratory of the church. The Statue of the Madonna had a plastic basket stuck on her head. They suspect that the vandals were a group of children. The mayor showed his solidarity with the victims and wrote on Facebook about the importance of teaching respect to children.

Muslim Family Beat up Daughter and Shave her Head for Intending to Marry a Christian

August 17, 2020, France

A 17 year-old girl of Bosnian origin faced pressure from her Muslim family, living in France since 2017, upon announcing her intention of getting married to her 20 year-old Christian boyfriend from Serbia. The two decided to run away together, but returned to her family home in Besançon four days later, on August 17, in the company of the boyfriend's parents, to resolve the issue. The situation escalated: The girl's parents and aunt and uncle beat her up severely and shaved her head. As a result, they are liable to prosecution and face expulsion from France.

Vandalism in San Rocco Church in Mede

August 16, 2020, Italy

The church of San Rocco in Mede was vandalized on the weekend, while preparations were underway for the celebration of the saint on Sunday evening. There was dirt on the small churchyard, such as bottles and cigarette butts. The vandals managed to get inside because the doors were open to allow for the preparations. They broke some candles and wrote vulgar phrases. Mayor said that it was not the first time such an episode happens.

Theft of Sacred Objects in Church of Saint-Malo-de-Beignon

August 16, 2020, France

On August 16th, the theft of a chalice and a ciborium was discovered in the church of Saint-Malo-de-Beignon. According to the verger of Saint-Malo-de-Beignon parish, Eugène Duval, hosts were found under the stairs. The doors showed no signs of a forceful entry, so the thefts likely took place in broad daylight, before the doors were closed at night.The act was suspected to have taken place between August 9th and August 15th. Police began an investigation.

Church Vandalised in Saint-Paul-sur-Save on Ascension Day

August 15, 2020, France

The church in Saint-Paul-sur-Save was vandalised on Ascension Day, August 15th. A crucifix was moved and the tabernacle, fortunately empty, was opened; the side doors of the sacristy were broken down and wardrobes were searched. Police began an investigation.

Hermitage in Alicnate Heavily Damaged, Desecrated and Robbed

August 15, 2020, Spain

On 15. August, the Christ Most Holy hermitage in Alicante was robbed and damaged by vandals. According to the parish administrator, the perpetrators stole several religious objects including a ceramic chalice, paten, metal crowns, statues of Christ and the Virgin Mary, and a sword from the Virgin Statue. They smashed through the altar of Saint Joseph and significantly damaged the building. The vandals also looted the drawers of furniture and threw devotional and liturgical books on the floor. The police is still investigating, but even if detained, the police said the vandals would not have received prison charges.

Wayside Cross Stolen and Destroyed in Arcambal

August 15, 2020, France

In Arcambal, in mid-August, a stone cross was stolen. The cross was part of the small heritage of the village and was located in the commune of Arcambal, in the Lot, at the corner of the castle wall, at the crossroads of the route du Tréboulou and the route de Cahors. It was torn off the wall and stolen. A complaint was filled.

Church Staff in Cheshire Physically Assaulted

August 15, 2020, United Kingdom

During an attack in August, one member of staff at a church in Cheshire was bitten and forcefully and inappropriately touched in his private area by an unknown perpetrator. According to a report by the Countryside Alliance the assault was one of 66 crimes to take place in churches in Cheshire. After several complaints, that too little has been done to raise awareness about crimes at churches, an investigation started.

Vandalised Church in St Paul sur Save

August 15, 2020, France

On August 15th, the Church in St Paul sur Save was target of vandalism. Unknown perpetrators broke open the doors of the sacristy and cabinets were opened and searched. A complaint has been filed by the municipality who owns the building. The police are investigating.

Vandalism in Murchante Against The Church and The Mayor

August 14, 2020, Spain

On the night from 13th to 14th August, vandals painted the streets and the door of the Church in Murchante with a threat warning against the mayor. The church and the police were insulted. Some writings said, "God is a black female" or "Worship Satan", and called police "parasites". Also, four containers were burned and had to be put out by the firefighters.

Church of Our Lady of Czestochowa Destroyed

August 14, 2020, Italy

On August 14th, A 54 year-old man entered the Church of Our Lady of Czestochowa in Rome on the morning, while a lady and the elderly parish priest were cleaning. He then started to destroy objects violently, and could not be stopped by the witnesses until the police intervened. The attack targeted the altar, the painting of Our Lady of Czestochowa, the stoups, crosses and candlesticks.

A Group of Drunk Teenagers Destroyed And Desecrated A Statue of Jesus on The Cross

August 14, 2020, Italy

On the night of Friday 14th August, a group of drunk young teenagers or even children destroyed the Statue of Jesus on the Cross, recorded it on video, and posted it later on social media. The Statue was on the road between Vindicatico and Monte Pizzo, in Lizzano. On the Video, one hears laughter and curses, while one young man hits the statue with a bat, the statue was also broken into pieces and smashed on the ground. The Carabinieri investigated and tracked down the perpetrators, who were between 19 and 16 years old. They were then denounced. One of the perpetrators wrote a letter of apology. The statue had been recently restored and people reacted badly to the scene.

Damage And Vandalism Against The Metropolitan Church Of Agios Minas

August 13, 2020, Greece

On Sunday 9th August, an Algerian threw stones and damaged the stained-glass windows of the Cathedral of Agios Minas in Heraklion. He also damaged a showcase of a library in the Archdiocese of Crete. On 11th August, he returned to the Cathedral armed with a hammer and began to break down a door. The police was able to identify and arrest the man through a video footage. There are various cases of vandalism and theft to churches in Greece..

A Cross Vandalized in Rivière-Salée

August 11, 2020, France

The Statue of Christ on the cross has been vandalized before 11th August. The photos of the statue, which lays inside the traffic circle next to the bridge leading to the Trois-Ilets road, were circulating on social media. The statue was repainted in black and an inscription saying "Faith Kills" was also written on it.

Chapel of Santo Stefano Desecrated by Vandals

August 11, 2020, Italy

A small chapel in the hamlet of Montesardo in Alessandria was vandalized by unknown people. They used spray paint to write vulgar and blasphemous phrases and images such as "Fck church, Fck God" and an anarchist symbol. A Mass of Reparation was held.

Eglise Saint-Pierre Vandalized and Desecrated

August 11, 2020, France

During the night of 10-11 August, unknown perpetrators broke into the church of Saint-Pierre de Montendre. The large central crucifix was discovered smashed on the ground. Father Bergson Julien was shocked: "I went to open the church at 8.45 this Tuesday morning and found the large cross with Christ in terracotta on the floor, broken vases on the altar, and the tabernacle had disappeared". The tabernacle was later found, but the ciborium and lunula with consecrated hosts it contained were missing.

Church of Saint-Michel Vandalized in France

August 11, 2020, France

On the 11th August in the afternoon, the Church of Saint Michel was desecrated in Verdun-Sur-Garonne. The church was opened during the day. The perpetrators broke the candles and scattered them and crushed them all over the church, the pews were moved and the chairs were upside down. Also, the sheets of paper were scattered. They had inscribed "T" and "X" with tape on the tablecloth of the altar, which suggest that the perpetrators did not finish their profanation. This incident was followed by other similar ones in other churches the next weeks.

Man Broke Into Church And Destroyed Hymnal

August 11, 2020, Germany

On the 11th of August in Lößnitz, a man broke into the Johanniskirche and destroyed a hymnal. The 37-year-old man first tried to break open the entrance door of the church, then he smashed a window pane and entered the interior of the church. He damaged the hymn and songs book. The employees of the cemetery interrupted the perpetrator and the witnesses called the police. The damage made is estimated to be around 500 euro.The man was arrested and released on Wednesday.

Repetitive Degradation of the Church of Saint Joseph de Audierne

August 10, 2020, France

On the 10th of August during the night, the Church of Saint Joseph de Audierne was degraded. It is written on the board message on the door that the church will be remain closed due to repetitive vandalism.

Increasing Attacks on German Street Preacher

August 10, 2020, Germany

Street preacher Henning Heinrich Westrup reported that attacks against him increased in July. He calls on people to repent and follow Jesus Christ in the pedestrian zones in Bielefeld, Dortmund and Gütersloh, among others. He reported that attacks against him by people who reject his message have increased. He said he experienced insults, vulgarities, and threats -- along with an assault in July.

Saint-Pierre Church Desecrated

August 10, 2020, France

On the evening of 10th August, the side door of the Saint-Pierre Church in Charente-Maritime was forced open. The central cross was broken and thrown to the ground, the tabernacle was torn off, and the ciborium was emptied of the hosts. There have been many church profanations in the city of Charente-Maritime.

Man Broke Door of the Cistern of San Jose Church With a Butane Cylinder

August 9, 2020, Spain

In the morning of August 9th, a man went to the door of the cistern of the Church San Jose in Granada and threw a butane cylinder against it. He repeated this act several times until he broke it. At first, it was thought he could be mentally ill, but then the police has declared him as guilty.

Cross of St.Joseph Vandalized For a Second Time

August 9, 2020, Germany

During the time of 9th August to 11th, the 100-year-old Cross of St. Joseph was smeared and defaced for a second time after a week with the same satanic symbol. The cross had been defaced with an astrological symbol linked to satanism and feminism. The first act was reported on 5th August. The Statue was also lately burned. The suspect for the arson was caught by the police.

Satanic Motivated Profanation of 63 tombs in Lannemezan

August 9, 2020, France

During the night of August 9th, 63 tombs were vandalized and desecrated in the Lannemezan cemetery in the Hautes-Pyrénées region. Broken crosses and upside down plaques were discovered by family members. The police was alerted by the neighbors who heard the loud noise. A week later, the two young perpetrators were arrested and sentenced to 18 and 12 months in prison. According to their testimony the vandalism was driven by satanic motivations.

Wayside Cross Vandalized in Magneville

August 9, 2020, France

A wayside cross in Magneville/Manche was knocked down, leaving both the cross and the figure of Christ broken into pieces. An observer informed the Observatoire de la Christianophobie on August 9th.

Insulting Slogan Written on Doorsteps of Church in Cousances-les-Forges

August 9, 2020, France

During a walk in Cousances-les-Forges, a visitor noticed an inscription written on the doorsteps of the church with a marker, saying "I am the God of Fuck". He contacted the Observatoire de la Christianophobie on July 31 and provided them with a picture on August 9.

Vandals Defaced Church of Santo Stefano di Macurano

August 9, 2020, Italy

On the 9th of August, the medieval Church of Santo Stefano di Macurano, in the countryside of Alessano, was defaced with paint inscriptions on the walls. The phrases were vulgar and blasphemous made with red and black paint insulting the Church and God. The perpetrators were identified through witnesses and security cameras as an Italian man and a German woman.

Many Religious Objects Stolen from Saint-Georges Church of Chavanges

August 8, 2020, France

On the 8th August, the parish priest of the Church Saint-Georges of Chavanges found that two chalices, five ciboria, and a paten were stolen from the Church. On Monday, they filed a complaint to the gendarmerie in Brienne-le-Château. The objects did not have financial value. Therefore, the bias must have been to vandalize the place of worship. Also, the key to the tabernacle was stolen, so other items may also be missing. The Church usually remains closed at night. Hence, the perpetrators must have broken in.

Two Churches Vandalized On The Same Night

August 8, 2020, France

During the night of Saturday 8th to Sunday 9th August, two churches were vandalized in Etsaut and Urdos. It was an act of pure vandalism. The priest of the church of Etsaut thinks it was a group of perpetrators. The mayor filed a complaint to the police since the door was broken open, and the door of the sacristy was damaged too. The cupboards of the sacristy were open, and a small amount of money was stolen. There were no witnesses. The church of Urdos witnessed a similar scenery. The sacristy was forced open, but this time nothing was stolen.

The Interior Of the Onze Lieve Vrouw van Banneux Chapel Demolished

August 8, 2020, Belgium

On 8th August in the morning, the chapel Onze Lieve Vrouw van Banneux in Bree was vandalized. The interior was almost entirely demolished. Numerous statues were smashed, candle wax was dripped all over, and all the candles were destroyed, the walls and the ceiling were smeared. In 2016, 2014 and 2003 the Chapel was also vandalized. The local residents had heard the sound of destruction and broken glass, and reported the suspect to the police. It was a man from abroad without papers.

Act of Vandalism To The Statue Of St. Joseph

August 8, 2020, Italy

On Saturday 8th August, a vandal struck the Statue of St. Joseph in the Madonna della Pace Church in Pantelleria-Tracino. The hand of the saint was damaged. The statue will need a restoration.

A Church Vandalized with Graffiti in Marseille

August 7, 2020, France

On the 7th August, graffiti were found on the facade of the former church of the Mission de France in rue du Tapis-Vert in Marseille. The Graffiti were probably made at different times.

Three Statues of The Church of Saint-André Destroyed

August 7, 2020, France

During the last weeks before the 7th August, there were three acts of vandalism in St. Andrew Church in the historic center of Niort. It is suspected that the vandals came during the nights from Thursday to Friday and destroyed several statues of the church. The Statue of the infant Jesus, carried in the arms of St. Anthony was left in a thousand pieces. Some pieces were thrown in a trash can near the monument. The Church remained closed for safety, and the parish filed a complaint to the police.

‘Weapon’ Used to Target Staveley Church

August 7, 2020, United Kingdom

Between the night of 7th to 8th August, the windows of the Methodist Church in Staveley were attacked. Small holes were found in the windows. The size indicates that a sort of weapon was used, and witnesses reported sounds of gunfire. Similar holes were also found in the stained-glass windows at St. John the Baptist Church.The Police are investigating.

The Aravaca Hermitage Spray-Painted With Satanic Graffiti on Its Exterior and Church Vandalized

August 6, 2020, Spain

On the 6th August, the hermitage of Our Lady of the Good Way in Aravaca spray-painted with satanic graffiti and insults to the Church on its exterior walls. There were poorly painted pentagrams and graffiti with the number 666, associated with the devil in the Bible, and other insults.

Church Windows Damaged by Fire

August 6, 2020, Germany

On the 6th August, particularly in the period from Tuesday 8pm to Wednesday 11am, unknown perpetrators damaged the windows of St. Laurentius in Neuenkirchen. In addition, they had set fire to an object.

Excrements found inside Saint-Maclou Cathedral

August 6, 2020, France

The Saint-Maclou Cathedral in Pontoise was soiled by human excrements three times within a week, French newspaper Le Parisien reported on August 6. The town council and the team responsible for the maintenance of the church began to look for solutions.

Image of the Madonna and Crosses Vandalized in A Shrine

August 6, 2020, Italy

On the 6th August, in the village of Pescina, the Sactuary was found vandalized. The image of the Madonna was torn to pieces and the crosses were damaged. All along the path to the Shrine, the symbols and flowers were torn off. The police was notified.

Christ Decapitated on Wayside Crucifix in Durlangen

August 5, 2020, Germany

Unknown perpetrators decapitated a statue of Christ on a large wayside cross standing in Durlangen. The police are uncertain when the incident occurred and have not identified the perpetrators. Damage is estimated to be around 2,000 Euros.

Vandalism of Christ Statue in Velbert

August 5, 2020, Germany

Red paint was discovered sprayed on a statue of Christ on the Cross in front of the Kirche St. Joseph in Velbert on August 5, 2020.

Vandalized Graves in Cemetery of Saveuse

August 4, 2020, France

About fifteen graves were vandalized on 4th August in the cemetery of the town Saveuse. Vandalism was discovered by a woman who was visiting the cemetery. The police started investigating the scene. Many plaques were broken, the decorations were smashed, and crosses were damaged or displaced.

Church Windows Damaged by Arson Attack

August 4, 2020, Germany

On the night of 4th to 5th August, the Church St. Laurentius in Neuenkirchen suffered an arson attack. Through the fire, a wooden window was damaged. The perpetrators placed an object between the window grille and the frame and set fire to it. The police is asking for clues from witnesses.

Vandalism and Theft in Pavignano Parish House

August 3, 2020, Italy

Unknown perpetrator(s) ransacked two rooms in the parish house of Pavignano, cut open mattresses and stole two TVs and an image of the Virgin Mary. The inside of the rooms left an image of complete destruction. The police opened an investigation and suspected a person from the Biella region to be the perpetrator, as the same person is suspected to have vandalized the church walls with insulting inscriptions against the police only a few days earlier.

Feminists Interrupted a Prayer in Parish Two Days in a Row and Threatened with Death

August 3, 2020, Spain

On Monday 3th and Tuesday 4th August, the Parish of San Francisco de Paula was attacked by a group of uniformed teenage girls of extremist ideology. They interrupted the prayers for the victims of Covid-19 and insulted, threatened the parishioners with death and shouted at the ones present, asking them to leave the country. The most present were elderly citizens. They tried to climb up to the altar. The parish priest tried to file a complaint to the police for hate crime, but he was ignored by the agents. Being ignored by the police, he contacted the mother of one of the girls who attacked the parish, who also showed rejection but accepted to talk to her daughter. After media pressure, the police started investigating and filed the case.

Monument Of a Cross in Front Of The Cemetery Partly Destroyed

August 3, 2020, France

Between the 3rd and 4th August, in Pujaut, the monument of a cross in front of the cemetery was partly destroyed. A part of the stone pedestal and the cross, that was on top, were destroyed. The mayor of Pujaut wants an explanation for the degradation.

Under Investigation: Fire Severely Damages the 13th Century Church of San Martín de Plasencia

August 2, 2020, Spain

A large fire caused serious damage during the night of August 2nd inside the iglesia de San Martín de Plasencia, the oldest in the city, and affected a valuable altarpiece by the painter Luis de Morales 'El Divino' from the 16th century and which presides over the main nave.

Severe Arson Attack in St. Martin Church

August 2, 2020, Spain

On the 2nd August, Saint Martin Church in Plasencia was severely set on fire. The perpetrators have not yet been identified. The costs of the damage were around 9,000 euros for the drafting of the project and 400,000 for the restoration.

Vandalism of the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Gallipoli

August 1, 2020, Italy

During the night of August 1st vandals toppled over and smashed a stone holy water stoup in the small arena where religious masses are celebrated outdoors in the summer at the church of the Chiesa della Beata Vergine Maria Regina in Baia Verde di Gallipoli. The priest of the parish, Don Salvatore Leopizzi was immediately informed and saddened by the incident, which was not the first one to happen in his church. A police report was filed.

Under Investigation: Fire in Front of Church Saint Maximin in Wülfrath

August 1, 2020, Germany

In the early morning hours of August 1st, the Wülfrath fire brigade was called because of a fire on the premises of Saint Maximin Catholic Church endangering the church building, which is currently under construction. The fire was contained after 45 minutes and did not cause any damage to the church. The cause of the fire is unknown and arson has not been ruled out. The police are investigating.

Open Air Church Vandalized and Urinated

August 1, 2020, Italy

On the 1st to 2nd August, in the small village of Porto San Paolo, the Open-Air Chapel was vandalized. A group of people urinated in the stoup and threw the Statue of the Madonna to the ground. They also damaged a rear window of a car parked nearby.

Arson in Church in Spain Caceres Caused 420,000 Euros Damage

August 1, 2020, Spain

In August 2020 some reckless minors set fire to the church of San Martín de Plasencia in Cáceres, Spain. After analysing the damage caused by the fire to the church's roof and altarpiece bishop José Luis Retana, bishop of Plasencia, announced that the restoration will cost 420,000 Euros. Four Spanish institutions have agreed on collaborating to repair the church. The elements most damaged by the fire were the roof and the altarpiece, which was a 16th-century Mannerist style piece by Luis de Morales. Bishop Retana hopes for the restoration to begin as soon as possible so that the church can be reopened in time for a sacred exhibition of Castilla y León in Spring of 2022. It is unknown whether or not the culprits have faced legal consequences.

Stained Glass Window in Saint-Cadou's Chapel Vandalised

August 1, 2020, France

The chapel, which dates back to the XVI century ,has been vandalised. The perpetrators smash a stained glass window, which was already damaged and restored again in 2018. The costs for another restoration of the ancient window are estimated at 900€.

Window Facade of Saint-Paul Church in Saint-Nazaire Damaged

July 31, 2020, France

During the night of July 31st the window facade of Saint Paul Church in Saint-Nazaire was severely damaged, apparently collateral damage of a wider outbreak of gun violence occurring throughout the city. Despite the extensive damage the church community gathered to celebrate Mass on Saturday evening.

Vandalism and Theft in Two Schwieberdingen Churches

July 31, 2020, Germany

During the night of July 31st, an unknown perpetrator gained access to the Protestant Georgskirche in Schwieberdingen through the sacristy, stole an antique chalice, and went on to smash a crystal window of the main building of the church. Only a few days earlier, the Catholic Church of St. Peter and Paul had been attacked. An unknown person broke open the offertory box as well as the cash box of the prayer candles and stole the small amount of cash contained in it. A police spokeswoman said that no clues to the perpetrator have been found so far. However, she said, one could assume a possible connection between the two crimes.

Priests Not Allowed to Give The Sacraments to the Elderly in Residential Homes

July 31, 2020, Spain

The Bishop Lopez of Salamanca expressed his concern that the priests were not allowed to entry residential homes of elderly in residential homes. The elders requested the sacraments in the final stage of their lives. The bishop calls for the respect of the Organic Law of Religious Liberty that guarantees religious assistance for every person. He also argues that there are no regulations during the pandemic that impede the exercise of the right to religious assistance in the vicinity of death. Using the example of the Hospitals in Salamanca, he believes with the proper hygienic standards, religious assistance should be allowed.

Politically-Motivated Vandalism of Cathedral of Notre-Dame-de-Nazareth

July 28, 2020, France

On the morning of July 28th parishioners discovered graffiti sprayed on the walls of the Cathedral of Notre-Dame-de-Nazareth in Vaison-la-Romaine. One tag read "vaut mieux une paire de mères qu’un père de merde" ("better a pair of mothers than a shitty father"). On another side of the cathedral, the word "sorcellerie" ("witchcraft") was painted. The vandalism appeared a day after Monsignor Cattenoz, Archbishop of Avignon, wrote an open letter to the deputies and senators of Vaucluse as well as to the local press denouncing the pending bioethics legislation in France. In his letter (in full below), he noted that if the law passes, "a woman will be able to give one of her fertilized oocytes to her partner, it will be implanted in her uterus so that they will both be mothers, erasing any reference to the importance of a father ... for the growth and life of a child."

Activists Hang Rainbow Flag and Anarchist Bandana on Statue of Christ in front of Warsaw Basilica

July 28, 2020, Poland

During the night of July 28th activists from the self-described "anarchist-queer" community launched what they termed a "rainbow assault" across Warsaw. They placed a rainbow flag on the statue of Jesus Christ carrying the Cross in front of the Basilica and attached a purple anarchist bandana over Christ's face. Several of Warsaw's other famous monuments were similarly targeted. The activists left cards with a "manifesto" beginning with the phrases "This is an assault! It's a rainbow. It's an attack! We've decided to act." The message went on to say their provocative actions would continue until Polish society accepted them.

Theft and Vandalism in a Cemetery in Thionville

July 27, 2020, France

Between the 26th and 27th of July, about 21 bronze statuettes of Christ or the Virgin Mary were torn off and stolen from the Saint-François de Thionville communal cemetery (Moselle). Official said this was "a targeted, premeditated and large-scale operation."

Repeated Vandalism of Virgin and Child Statue in Noirmoutier-en-l'Île

July 27, 2020, France

Unknown perpetrators vandalized the statue of the Virgin Mary and Jesus during the night of July 27th for the third time -- this time, decapitating the head of the Christ child. In 2018, vandals beheaded both figures on the statue; and in mid-July, (see link below) the pedestal of the statue was vandalized with graffiti.

UPDATE: Volunteer Charged with Nantes Arson

July 26, 2020, France

On Sunday, July 26th, the diocesan volunteer who had been questioned and released last week was indicted for the arson of the Nantes cathedral and placed in pre-trial detention.

Graffiti on Saint-Jean-Baptiste Chapel

July 26, 2020, France

On the morning of the 26th , the Priest found Graffiti on the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Chapel and the door was painted in red. He posted the image on his Facebook Page.

Vandalism of Church, Cemetery, and Morgue in Günzkofen

July 26, 2020, Germany

During the night of Sunday 26th unknown perpetrators severely vandalized the cemetery of the St. Jakobus church and and the enclosed morgue. According to police, the perpetrators broke several windows of the church and the morgue at the cemetery in Günzkofen with grave decorations. In addition, they also tampered with several graves, causing total damage of about 1,000 euros.

Vandalism with Satanic Inscriptions Found on Church Doors in Goleszów

July 26, 2020, Poland

"666," a pentagram, an inverted cross, and the phrase "Ora Pro Nobis Lucifer" were painted on the door of the church in Goleszów by unknown perpetrators. The graffiti was noticed on the morning of July 26th by the priest who came to prepare the church for Mass. The police filed a report in this case and are investigating.

Barclays Bank and Online Platforms Closed Christian Charities' Accounts

July 25, 2020, United Kingdom

Two Christian organizations that help people “who voluntarily seek change in sexual preference and expression,” have been notified by Barclays Bank that their accounts would be closed. The move by the bank followed a social media campaign demanding that the bank end its professional relationship with Core Issues Trust (CIT) and The International Federation for Therapeutic and Counselling Choice (IFTCC), accusing both groups of promoting “conversion therapy.” In recent weeks, the UK government has pledged to ban "conversion therapy." The charities' head, Mike Davidson, disputes the use of the term: “The term ‘conversion therapy’ is being used as a catch-all phrase designed to discredit any help that people may provide to those with mixed sexual attractions who prefer their heterosexual side. This could include a listening ear, formal counselling or spiritual support.”

Vandalism of Wayside Cross in Bining

July 25, 2020, France

On July 25th, one of the wayside crosses in Bining (Moselle) was toppled over and smashed. The police are investigating and looking for possible witnesses.

Six Stained Glass Windows Smashed in Nîmes Church

July 24, 2020, France

Shortly before midnight on July 24th, a drunken man attacked the Saint-Baudile church in Nîmes, breaking six stained glass windows using a steel bar nearly two meters long. The man, known to the police, was arrested after being caught in the act.

Proposed Scottish Hate Crime Bill Threatens Freedom of Speech and Worship

July 23, 2020, United Kingdom

The Scottish Justice Committee has proposed a new hate crime bill, which extends the current hate crime law covering race, to include other "protected characteristics" such as religion, sexual orientation, and transgender identity. Christian and secular groups have criticized the bill as too broad and subjective, potentially interfering with freedom of speech and worship. The Parliament has accepted to re-draft the Bill, to protect Freedom of Speech. The new amendment should be known in December 2020.

Fires Set in Tyrol Church; Witnesses Sought by Police

July 23, 2020, Austria

Would-be arsonists started a fire in the parish church in Waidring (Kitzbühel district) on July 23rd. According to police, between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m., unknown perpetrators distributed and lit several matchboxes, matches, and candles on the church pews. In addition, they tried to set fire to a hymn book, presumably using matches. Around 5:15 p.m., a witness noticed the smell of fire in the church, but the fire had already gone out. There was a similar incident on Monday, July 20th: according to investigators, burning ignition wicks had been placed on the kneelers of the church pews.

Swastikas, Blasphemies, and Anti-Salvini Graffiti on Asola Church

July 23, 2020, Italy

The parishioners of the church San Rocco in Asola discovered vandalism on the outside wall of the church, after they left Mass on the morning of July 24th. Unknown perpetrators painted black graffiti on the wall with a swastika symbol, blasphemous phrases, and anti-Salvini insults. The police and the priest of the church were immediately informed and the police filled a report.

Equality Legislation in Malta Threatens Freedom of Religion; Conscience; Expression

July 22, 2020, Malta

Proposed Equality Bills 96 and 97 are ostensibly aimed at protecting an extensive group of people from discrimination and cover areas such as schools, public religious symbols, and services and employment. The Bills would make it illegal to discriminate on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, age, religious belief, state of health, and other “protected characteristics.” However, many sectors of society, including educators, professionals, business owners, health workers, parents, faith-based groups, and believers are concerned about the laws' overreach.

Convert Stabbed with Knife Outside Grindtorp Church

July 22, 2020, Sweden

Hossein Hosseini, a young convert from Islam to Christianity, was stabbed with a knife at Grindtorp Church in Täby, in the Stockholm area. According to reports, he has been receiving online death threats for a long time. He says he is "very scared".

Church Site Vandalized Causing 5,000 Euros in Damage

July 21, 2020, Germany

On July 21st, unknown perpetrators vandalized the entire area surrounding the Protestant city church of Groß-Gerau. Yellow graffiti was sprayed on walls, wooden benches, a parking sign and wall pillars causing an estimated damage of 5,000 Euros. The police ares investigating the incident and asked the public for help identifying the vandals.

Suspicious Fire in Ligugé Abbey

July 21, 2020, France

A fire was discovered on July 20, 2020, just before midnight, in the building used as a laundry room at the Abbey Saint-Martin de Ligugé. According to firefighters, about 20 of the 100 m2 were destroyed. One person was detained and questioned. No charges have been announced.

"Fake Mass" Filmed and Vandalism in Maccagno

July 21, 2020, Italy

The police of Maccagno suspect a small group of young people to have entered the church of Our Lady of the Point through a half-opened door during the night of July 21st. They took liturgical vestments from the sacristy and climbed onto the altar to "celebrate Mass" on it. The vandals later moved to the shore of the lake where they, after drinking bottles of beer, left the empty beer carton on the head of the statue of the Virgin Mary. Videos of the "fake Mass" appeared on social media and the police began an investigation.

The Deputy Agnès Thill talks about religious Intolerance in The Parliament (Video)

July 21, 2020, France

In a two-minute intervention, the Deputy Agnès Thill calls on the government to protect religious freedom and churches in Nantes. She referred to the latest report on anti-religious acts published by the Ministry of the Interior. Based on the report, 1052 anti-Christian acts, 657 antisemitic acts, and 154 anti-Muslim acts have been committed in 2019. She calls on the protection of secularism and fight against antisemitism, islamophobia, but also all anti-christian acts.

Vandals Smashed Four Windows of the Church of Großweitzschen

July 20, 2020, Germany

An employee of the parish of the church of Großweitzschen discovered on July 21st that four stained glass panes of the door on the organ tempore had been smashed the day before. Reports indicate that this is not the first time the church has been the victim of vandalism.

Vandalism of Virgin Mary Statue in Alt-Schwallbach Chapel

July 20, 2020, Germany

Between July 19th and 20th an unknown perpetrator cut off and stole the hands of the statue of the Virgin Mary in a chapel in Alt-Schwallbach. Local Catholics are shocked, as the vandalism contains a mysterious detail, the vandal supposedly took the cut off hands with him/her, as they could not be found in- or outside the chapel. The police is investigating the case.

Statue of the Virgin Mary Decapitated in Montaud

July 20, 2020, France

Unknown perpetrators decapitated a statue of the Virgin Mary in Montaud, an important monument for the local community with valuable symbolism. The mayor of the city Joel Raymond discovered the damage and filed a complaint.

Abbess of German Benedictine Convent Charged for Granting Church Asylum

July 20, 2020, Germany

The abbess of the German Benedictine convent Maria Frieden in Kirchschletten faced criminal charges for granting church asylum. The trial against Mother Mechthild Thürmer before the Bamberg District Court was scheduled for July 31. The abbess of the monastery in Upper Franconia had taken in an Eritrean woman in fall of 2018, who was to be deported to Italy. She disputed a penalty order for "aiding and abetting an illegal stay", combined with a fine of 2,500 euros, arguing for freedom of conscience.

Anarchist Tags on the Church of Saint Clement in Nantes

July 19, 2020, France

On July 19th, just a day after the fire at the cathedral in Nantes, the priest of the Fraternité Saint-Pierre serving the Saint-Clément church in Nantes discovered anarchist tags sprayed on the front of the church.

Armed Man Yelling "Allahu Akbar" Heading Toward Church Stopped by Motorist

July 19, 2020, France

A 38-year-old motorist stopped a man who was heading towards a church in Blanc-Mesnil, armed with a loaded machine gun, shouting "Allahu akbar." 

Vandalism of Christ of Calvary on l’Île d’Arz

July 19, 2020, France

Unknown perpetrators broke the Christ of Calvary of Grèavo on the l’île d’Arz during the night of July 19th to 20th. The Christ figure was knocked off the large public crucifix and broken into several pieces. "A silly act, a sacrilege," reacts Christophe Stener, a local historian and resident. "Human stupidity has no limits. Whether one is a Christian or not, this act is revolting." The gendarmerie are investigating.

Window Front of Church in Bad Soden Smashed by Vandals

July 19, 2020, Germany

Unknown perpetrators destroyed the glass front of a church in Bad Soden on July 19th. The vandals smashed the glass panes of the Catholic Church in Salinenstraße, causing property damage amounting to several thousand euros. The police are investigating and asked for witness statements.

Arson Investigation after Fire Heavily Damaged Nantes Cathedral

July 18, 2020, France

In the early morning hours of July 18th, a fire began in the Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul cathedral, in the heart of Nantes. Passers-by saw flames behind the rosette window of the cathedral and alerted emergency services a little before 8:00 am. When firefighters arrived, they discovered "a violent fire at the level of the organ located behind the rosette window." Upon further investigation, it appeared that the fire had started in three locations: one fire had started near the organ, while the other two were at the other end of the cathedral.

Theft and Vandalism of Tabernacle in San Giovanni Church

July 18, 2020, Italy

During the night of July 18th unknown vandals smashed the tabernacle under the image of Mary in the side altar of San Giovanni church in Trieste. Additionally, two valuable brass candlesticks were stolen. Don Sergio Fransin discovered the vandalism and theft and immediately reported the crime to the police.

Satanists Suspected of Theft and Desecration in St. Johann Baptist Church in Krefeld

July 18, 2020, Germany

Unknown perpetrators have stolen the golden door of the tabernacle, a monstrance stance and money from an donation box. The tabernacle door was forcefully torn out and the donation box vandalized and money stolen. The community of St. Johann Baptist Church suspects satanists to be the perpetrators, who use the stolen objects for satanic rituals, because the golden altar cross was not stolen, which speaks against just a monetary motivation.

Statue Of Virgin Mary Mutilated at the Miraculous Spring of Our Lady of Banneux

July 17, 2020, Belgium

Pilgrams to the miraculous spring of our Lady of Banneux discovered the severe mutilation of the statue of the Virgin Mary, which is situated above the spring. It is speculated that the vandalism took place in the week before July 17th. The face of the statue has been particularly mutilated therefore, the statue was replaced by an exact replica.

New Same-Sex Marriage Law in Northern Ireland Threatens Freedom of Conscience

July 17, 2020, United Kingdom

The Parliament of Northern Ireland passed a new marriage law for same-sex couples, which has two implications for the church and Christian business owners. The law prohibits private business to deny service to same-sex couples arguing for freedom of conscience. Additionally, the new legislation allows same-sex couples of faith to have religious wedding ceremonies in church or other religious settings if all parties agree.

Church of the Beata Vergine del Soccorso Repeatedly Vandalized

July 16, 2020, Italy

The portico of the Church of Beata Vergine del Soccorso, known locally as La Rotonda, is often used as a meeting place for young people in the city of Rovigo, despite an ordinance against it. Several times in the weeks before July 16th, mostly young people illegally climbed onto the historic porch and vandalized it, with a least one of them being caught on security cameras using it as a toilet on May 30th. The local police began an investigation.

Monument of St. John Paul II vandalized in Parisian Church

July 16, 2020, France

A bust of John Paul II, situated next to the entrance of the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, because the permission to build it on the square in front of the church was denied, was severely vandalized by unknown perpetrators. Although the street of Saint Hornore has surveillance, the case has not been reported to the police yet by the parish.

Anarchist Graffiti Targeting Church; City Hall in San Giorgio a Cremano

July 15, 2020, Italy

During the night of July 15th, vandals attacked various sites in the city of San Giorgio a Cremano near Naples, including the church of Santa Maria del Principio with graffiti. One tag on the church read "Fuoco al Vaticano." The city hall gate and the headquarters of some political movements were also targeted. The city's mayor, Giorgio Zinno, said the symbols and slogans demonstrated the vandals' anti-Catholic, anti-democratic, and anarchic ideology. The police are investing the case by analyzing the recordings of the public security cameras.