All cases

Update! Sweden: Liberal Party Wants To Ban the Establishment of New Religious Independent Schools

June 22, 2022, Sweden

The Liberal Swedish Party wants to completely ban denominational independent schools, within the framework of the Swedish school system. Previously, they intended to block the opening of new religious schools but now they claim that the existing ones should also be closed in the next term. The chairman of the Christian Free School Council, Jan Rosman, says this "would definitely be a violation of religious freedom".

Church Windows Smashed in Leipzig Once Again

June 22, 2022, Germany

Between the evening of June 22 and the morning of the 23rd, unknown vandals threw paving stones at a total of three church windows in Leipzig. The total amount of damages is estimated to be around 300 euros. The case was reported to the police and a case was opened to investigate the vandalistic act.

Vandal Caught on Church's Surveillance Camera Damaging a Cross

June 22, 2022, Poland

On June 22, a surveillance camera of the church of St. Andrzej Bobola recorded a man entering the vestibule of the building, damaging the cross, and then leaving the church. The video was sent to the police, who published a picture of the unknown vandal. They opened an investigation to gather evidence and witnesses who might be able to identify the perpetrator.

Statue of Mary Ripped out and Stolen From German Church

June 21, 2022, Germany

The police announced on the 21st of June, that a statue of the Virgin Mary was stolen from the Church of St. Wenzeslaus in Schönsee, by unknown burglars. The statue was apparently ripped out from its attachment to the wall. It is approximately 100 years old, with 75 centimeters, hand-carved, and worth around 5,000 euros. It is not yet known the exact date and time the crime occurred, but the Bavarian State Criminal Police Office is looking into the case in order to find the culprits.

Theft and Property Damage From Lutheran Church

June 21, 2022, Germany

Between June 21 and 22, unknown thieves stole a video camera and a microphone from the Lutheran Church. The police were alerted and investigations indicate that the perpetrators allowed themselves to be locked inside the church and then forced open a door to exit the crime scene. The items stolen were worth around 200 euros and the property damage is estimated at around 2000 euros.

Attempted Theft in the Church of Santa Maria Monserrato

June 20, 2022, Italy

Unidentified thieves attempted to rob the church of Santa Maria Monserrato, in Palermo. In order to enter, they unhinged the iron gate, enabling their access to the church. However, for reasons still unknown, they gave up and abandoned the scene. The case was reported to the police and an investigation is underway.

Bronze Cross Torn Off and Stolen From Fulda Cathedral

June 19, 2022, Germany

According to the diocese of Fulda, on the 19th of June, a valuable bronze cross was stolen from the Bonifatius tomb, in the Fulda Cathedral. It appears that the cross was violently torn from its anchorage, which likely damaged it in the process. The theft was reported to the police, which opened an investigation to find the burglars.

Young Boys Caused Fires and Smoke Inside Church

June 18, 2022, Germany

On June 18 and 23, two young boys were "playing" with fire in the evangelical church, located on Klosterbergstraße. Fortunately, they didn't cause any considerable damage. On the 18th, they entered the church, in the early evening and it is suspected that they filled the glass candle holders with disinfectant and then lit them on fire. The candle holders withstood the heat, so the fire faded. On June 23, the same young boys went to the church at the end of the afternoon, but on this occasion, they lit a fire under a wooden desk. This time the fire spread a bit, creating a considerable amount of smoke inside the church, but it apparently died on its own. According to preliminary estimates, the material damage caused amounted to several thousand euros. The police were alerted and are now looking for witnesses to identify the young boys.

Attack on Catholic Rectory in Dolice

June 18, 2022, Poland

On the night of 18/19. June, there was an attack on the rectory of the Roman Catholic parish of Christ the King in Dolice. The perpetrator destroyed the gates, entrance doors, thermal insulation and facades of the rectory building and garden infrastructure. Death threats were directed toward the priests, and attempts were also made to provoke a riot.

150 Graves desecrated and Crosses Stolen

June 18, 2022, France

During the night of 17 to 18 of June, the cemetery of Velsy (Eure) was vandalized. Crosses and other objects were stolen from 150 graves, almost the half in the cemetery. The mayor of the village, Annie Lefèvre, and her first deputy Laurent Lucas were on the spot to see the extent of the damage. They have filed a complaint at the gendarmerie.

Church Altar and Organ Smeared With Artificial Snow

June 17, 2022, Germany

At the end of June, in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bühren, unknown vandals spreaded artificial snow on the altar, the lectern, the wooden floorboards, and the organ. The parishioners were especially concerned about the organ since it dates back to 1824 and is a listed building. However, a specialist company has examined it and it seems like there is no permanent damage, it will be possible to remove the snow but it will be "at great expense". The guest book was also vandalized with right-wing extremist and unconstitutional symbols. The sheet was removed as the pastor claimed that "such signs have no place in our church". The police were alerted and informed about this vandalistic attack.

Church Doors Glued Together in Marburg

June 16, 2022, Germany

On the night between June 15 and 16. June, unidentified vandals glued the locks and the doors of the two entrances to the church of Peter and Paul in Biegenstrasse, blocking its access. A locksmith had to be called to the scene to repair the entrances in order to allow the Corpus Christi service and the procession for this festivity to take place in the church. The police were alerted and started an investigation to find the ones responsible for the vandalistic act.

Valuable Objects Stolen from Catholic Church in Germany

June 16, 2022, Germany

Between 10 p.m. and 11 p.m., on 16. June, a Catholic Church was broken into by unknown people, who got access to the church through the entrance of the sacristy. They stole several objects, but it has not been clarified yet how many valuables were stolen. Nonetheless, the total damage caused to the property is estimated to be around several thousand euros. The case was reported to the police on the 19th of June, which opened an investigation to find the ones responsible for the burglary.

Satanic Vandalism of Church in Szczecin

June 16, 2022, Poland

On the night of June 16-17, an unknown perpetrator committed an act of vandalism on the grounds of the parish of St. James the Apostle in Szczecin. The vandal painted a pentagram symbol on the historic door of the Basilica.

Theft of Money and Religious Objects from Church in Calvi

June 15, 2022, France

The chapel of Notre-Dame de la Serra was looted during the night of 14 to 15 June in Calvi, in the island of Corsica. The trunks as well as various religious objects (rosaries, pikes) were stolen. The gate, the trunks and the cupboards inside were broken into with a crowbar.

Crucifix Stolen from Calvary in Würselen

June 15, 2022, Germany

On 15 June, a cast iron crucifix was stolen from a Calvary in the village of Würselen near Aachen at the intersection of Kaiser and Bissener streets. The police have launched an appeal for witnesses.

Leaflets in A Church Catch Fire

June 15, 2022, France

Some leaflets caught fire in the Saint-Jacques church on 15. June during the lunch break in Corne-sur-Loire. The leaflets were located at the entrance of the church building, police are investigating. The fire was quickly brought under control by the fire brigade and did not cause any further damage.

Jewels and Relics Stolen from a Church in Drogheda

June 14, 2022, Ireland

A man has been charged with stealing relics and jewels and a crucifix from a monstrance in St Peter's Church in Drogheda, Ireland, on 14 June. The defendant is further accused of damaging the monstrance. He caused 1,000€ worth of damage and is currently in custody.

Catholic Church Vandalized in Helden

June 13, 2022, Germany

On June 13, between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. unknown vandals broke into the Catholic Church in Helden, where they vandalized several furnishings and stole the microphone that was on the altar. The property damage is estimated to be in the four-digit euro range. Also, between June 12 and 13, unidentified thieves stole decorations from a grave in the cemetery located behind the church. It is unclear whether these acts were committed by the same perpetrators.

Loudspeaker stolen from Church in Neustadt

June 13, 2022, Germany

On the 13th of June, between 10:00 a.m. and 11 a.m., an unknown thief stole an installed loudspeaker from a church in Neustadt. The theft was reported to the police, who are now looking for the culprit.

17-Year-Old Teenager Guilty of Arson in Church Garden

June 13, 2022, Italy

On June 13, a fire was set to a palm tree in the garden of the church of San Leopoldo Mandic, in Padua. The friars reported the case to the police, whose investigations led to the 17-year-old teenager from Ponte San Nicolò, then held responsible for the damage. Fortunately, no significant damage was recorded, apart from that caused to the plant.

Church of Saint Antony of Padua Vandalized

June 12, 2022, Italy

During the night, between the 11th and the 12th of June, the church of Sant'Antonio di Padova was the target of an act of vandalism. Unknown people entered the church, by breaking a window, possibly looking to steal money or some valuable items. The vandals did not steal anything, but started drinking inside the church and vandalized it. Consecrated hosts were found scattered on the floor and the tablecloth on the altar had traces of blood. The blood found is suspected to be from one of the thieves who might have been injured while breaking into the church. The case was reported to the police, who started conducting investigations and collected the bloody tablecloth hoping it leads them to the culprits.

Four Ukrainian Churches Harassed and Forced to Close by Russian Soldiers

June 12, 2022, Ukraine

Between June 12 and 16, four Protestant Churches were harassed in Russian-occupied eastern Ukraine, by soldiers and officials. Three of the churches are located in the Donetsk region - Central Baptist Church, the Church of Christ the Saviour in Mariupol, and a church in Manhush - and the other one is a church in Vasilievka in the Zaporizhia region. According to Dr. Hyun Sook Foley, representative of the Voice of the Martyrs Korea, officials conducted searches in these churches, demanded to see documents, confiscated equipment, and even forced church members to exit the building.

Wooden Eagle lectern stolen from church

June 12, 2022, United Kingdom

The wooden eagle lectern was stolen from St Mary's Church in Gunthorpe by unknown perpetrators. The theft is believed to have taken place at some point during the weekend of Saturday, June 11, and Sunday, June 12. The police were able to return the eagle lectern the Church in Gunthorpe.

Windows of a Church in Wolverhampton Smashed with Stones

June 11, 2022, United Kingdom

The West Midlands police have released CCTV footage of three people wanted for smashing the windows of Life City Church with stones on 11 and 13 June. The damage to the church was £1000 and a complaint has been made.

Four Fires Started Inside Church in Binge

June 10, 2022, Belgium

On the 10th of June a big fire broke out in the Church of Recollects in Binche that consumed most of the church. The authorities detected three separate fires inside the building, which indicates a willful criminal act. The church was no longer in use but it was protected as a historical monument. After the fire, the authorities had to consider demolishing the building, due to its instability.

Break In into Offices of Church and Burgled

June 9, 2022, Germany

During the night from the 8th to the 9th of June, unknown people broke into the offices above the church on Main Street. They opened several cabinets inside the office and, from one of them, stole a couple of hundred euros in cash. The police were alerted in the morning and went to the scene to gather evidence. An investigation was opened to find the people responsible for the theft.

Man Arrested for Vandalizing Church in Poland

June 8, 2022, Poland

A 26-year-old man was arrested for painting inscriptions on the façade of a church in Złotoryja, as well as some other buildings. He used spray paint and his vandalistic act was recorded by surveillance cameras. He could face up to 5 years in prison.

Statue of Virgin Mary Destroyed in Kluki

June 8, 2022, Poland

On the 8th of June, an unknown vandal destroyed a statue of the Virgin Mary at the Kluki commune in Poland. The residents were shocked by the hateful act and recalled other religious sights that had been damaged in the area. No official report had been submitted to the police yet.

EU Commissioner Downplays Massacre of Christians in Nigeria saying it is not Rooted in Religion

June 8, 2022, International

During a debate on 8. June in the European Parliament, triggered by the massacre of Christians in Nigeria that happened in a Church during a Pentecostal Mass, Commissioner Valdis Dombrovski severely downplayed the attacks by attributing them to "underlying causes beyond faith" such as "scarce resources", and "poor education", "unemployment", among others. These affirmations ignore that the perpetrators belong to the jihadist terrorist organization Boko Haram. Such statements push the narrative away from the issue of the terrible human rights violations of religious freedom in Nigeria, which has already claimed the lives of thousands of Christians in the last years.

Facade of Church in Zlotorya Vandalised

June 8, 2022, Poland

The Polish Laboratory for Religious Freedom (Laboratorium Wolności Religijnej) reports that on June 8, an act of vandalism was committed on the façade of one of the churches in downtown Zlotorya. A twenty-six-year-old man placed graffiti on the facade of the church and several other buildings. The perpetrator's act was recorded on city surveillance cameras.

Destruction of the Statue of the Virgin Mary in Belchatow

June 8, 2022, Poland

On June 8, Polish local media reported the destruction of a statue of the Virgin Mary at a memorial plaque commemorating the victims of the September 1939 bombing in the Kluki municipality. An unknown perpetrator destroyed the statue of the Virgin Mary, located in the forest, along the DK 74 road from Belchatow toward Kluki.

Blasphemous Mother of God‘s Image Displayed at LGBT+ Pride March

June 7, 2022, Italy

At an LGBT+ pride march in Cremona, Italy, participants carried a half-naked mannequin dressed as the "Mother of God". The blasphemous display which took place during the LGBT+ Pride offended many Christians. Bishop of Cremona, Antonio Napolioni commented on the incident: "They do not fulfill any educational role, they do not communicate any values ​​or rights. Their presence is a gesture that serves no one, but it hurts many people."

Church Repeatedly Vandalized and Desecrated by Teenagers

June 7, 2022, Italy

Police were working to identify three teenagers, dressed in black, who targeted the Santo Crocifisso in Meda with vandalism and sacrilegious gestures. In this incident, around the 5th of June, they smoked and urinated in the church and then returned days later to knock over some chairs. They were confronted by the volunteers that work there but managed to disappear. The same had happened already in May.

Bible, Cross and Ten Commandments Tablet Stolen from Church in Marseille

June 7, 2022, France

On the 7th of June, the Church of Saint-Menet in Marseille was broken into and looted by unknown individuals. They forced open a locked drawer of the altar and stole a Bible with a golden cover, a large silver cross, and a tablet of the Ten Commandments. The priest of the church, finding it turned upside down, noticed the theft and alerted the authorities. The scientific police went to the crime scene and opened an investigation to find the culprits.

Former Church Set on Fire in Eckington

June 6, 2022, United Kingdom

A large church in Eckington, which has not been used for quite some time, was set on fire by unknown arsonists on the 3rd of June. Residents were told to leave their homes and two fire departments had to be called. Although this church may have been unused, its religious value was still present.

Anti-Christian Graffiti on Historic Church in Potsdam

June 6, 2022, Germany

The evangelical Sacrower Heilandskirche in Potsdam was vandalized with large amounts of graffiti on the 6th of June by unknown people. The damage to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which the police were investigating, will cost tens of thousands of euros to repair. The slogans written said "No God; No State; No Patriarchy" and portrayed an anarchist symbol.

9 Men Arrested for Stealing Trunks and Jewels from Churches

June 6, 2022, Spain

On the 6th of June it was reported that the Spanish police apprehended a group of 9 men who had been looting over 20 churches in the south of Spain. Some of the cities where they stole trunks, religious objects and jewels from the Saints were Murcia, Alicante and Almería.

Church Billboard Set on Fire in St. Margrethen.

June 5, 2022, Germany

An unknown arsonist set fire to the billboard of the Catholic church in St. Margrethen sometime between 12:00 p.m. and 6:20 p.m. on the 5th of June. The fire went out on its own but damage of several hundred francs was caused. The St. Gallen police were looking for witnesses who could provide more information about the incident.

Religious Items Stolen from Bamberg Monastery

June 5, 2022, Germany

Thieves, who have not been identified, stole a priest's robe and a monstrance from a monastery in Bamberg. The theft was noticed on the 5th of June and the value of the items is around 15,000 euros. The monstrance, which is used to present the holy Eucharist, is around 75 cm tall and close to 32 cm wide. The Police were investigating the crime.

Spain: Bishop called Homophobic and Insulted for Defending Life and Family

June 5, 2022, Spain

Bishop Santiago Gómez Sierra of Huelva spoke in a Mass on Pentecost Sunday and reminded Catholics of the importance of upholding the values of life and family when they vote in the upcoming election. He said that he was not trying to enforce anything but rather encourage "moral principles" that "should be above the different party strategies because they are issues required by reason, natural law, and true humanism.” For this speech, he was accused by left-leaning media and politicians of being homophobic and attacking "rights won by the left."

Two Statues Vandalised in Warsaw with Blue Paint

June 5, 2022, Poland

An unknown perpetrator committed an act of vandalism against the St. Maximilian Kolbe parish in Warsaw. The vandal scrawled blue paint on the statue of St. Maximilian Kolbe and the Papal Cross (from Pope John Paul's II 1st Pilgrimage to Poland), standing on church grounds. The incident occurred on June 5.

Altar Cross Stolen from Church in Jülich-Bourheim

June 4, 2022, Germany

During the weekend of the 4th of June, an altar cross was stolen from a church in Jülich-Bourheim by an anonymous person. The cross is made of gilded brass and stands 45 cm high. The police searched the sight for evidence but need more information.

Young People Broke Into and Profaned Church in L'Aquila

June 3, 2022, Italy

It was reported on June 3rd, that young people entered the monastery of Sand Basilio in L'Aquila, disturbed the sisters sleeping there and profaned the confessional. First, two boys entered the convent and tried to force open the door of an elderly nun. Later during the night, a young man and woman were seen naked, and running from the confessional after allegedly having sex. The cloistered sisters were scared by the incidents and called the carabinieri who then investigated.

Vandalism and Theft to Church in Fragagnano

June 3, 2022, Italy

The Maria Santissima Immacolata church in Fragagnano, was broken into on during the night of June the 3rd by a 38-year-old Moroccan. The man tried to steal money from the offering box as well as sacred objects, but was caught by the carabinieri who then retrieved the stolen goods. In trying to access these items, he caused a large amount of property damage that will cost around 1,000 euros to repair.

Sacristy of San Giuseppe Church in Grosseto Vandalized

June 2, 2022, Italy

On June 2nd, the San Giuseppe Church in Grosseto was vandalized by a person who was caught on camera but has not been identified. A man in his 40s entered the sacristy and upset drawers that contained linen for the altar and objects for worship. He didn't steel anything but smashed a wooden door. This was one of several thefts and vandalism that have happened to churches in this area in recent weeks.

Man Arrested for Stealing Relic of Virgin in Spain

June 2, 2022, Spain

The Guardia Civil arrested a man that allegedly stole the Rosary of an image of the Virgin in Calañas. The investigation began on 2 June, when a report of the theft was received from the Sister Major of the Brotherhood concerned. The incident occurred when the relic was being exhibited in the left hand of the image of the Virgin of Amargura, in a chapel of the church of Calañas "Santa María de Gracia".

Serial Thefts in Celano Churches

June 1, 2022, Italy

On the 1st of June, thefts were recorded in the churches of the Madonna delle Grazie and Madonnina, both of which are in Celano. The thief broke the candelabra to access the offerings which were inside. A few days earlier, thefts also occurred in the churches of San Giovanni Battista, and Sant'Angelo. This series of thefts, which was under investigation, targeted sacred places and has angered the congregations of each.

Door from Enna Church Set on Fire by Unknown Vandals

June 1, 2022, Italy

The wooden side door of the Sam Marco church in Enna, was set on fire by unknown vandals on June 1st. The arson greatly upset the people of Enna who hold the church at great value due to its history and religious sacredness. The fire brigade was called to put the fire out and the Carabinieri investigated the crime.

Men Arrested in Neumarkt for Repeated Theft and Property Damage to Churches

June 1, 2022, Austria

On the 1st of June, two Romanian men, aged 42 and 50, were caught red-handed emptying the offering box of the church in Neumarkt. They have "partially" confessed to trying to steal money from 20 churches in Lower Austria. The total damage caused, was estimated to be around 800 euros.

Sacred Items Stolen from Church in Fécamp

June 1, 2022, France

During the night of June 1st, thieves forced open the door of the abbey church of Sainte-Trinité in Fécamp, and stole a sacred item kept in the sacristy. They took two vials containing "Precious Blood" which is believed to be from Jesus when he was crucified. Bishop of Le Havre, Mgr Jean-Luc Brunin, lamented: "This theft is an unbearable attack on the faith of all people who remember the Salvation obtained by the sacrifice of Christ."

Major Theft of Valuables from Mespelbrunn Church

June 1, 2022, Germany

Police were investigating an incident in which unknown intruders forced their way into the Mespelbrunn church. They took several sacred coins and jewelry out of a glass case and then fled. The cost of the property damage was around 500 euros but the precise amount of stolen goods was still being quantified.

Church Doors in Gischow Damaged with Inscription by Vandals

June 1, 2022, Germany

It was reported on the 1st of June, that the door of the Evangelical Church in the town of Gischow has been damaged, just a couple of days after graffiti on a church in Plau. The inscription was hard to read, but it was carved with a sharp object on the wooden door of the church, causing great damage.

Increased Vandalism to the Church in Olpe

May 31, 2022, Germany

The latest act of vandalism to the Kreuzkapelle in Olpe, which happened on May 31st, damaged the historic door but was only part of the vandalism the chapel has recently experienced. The surrounding area is often littered and people's rubbish is thrown into the nave, as well as benches and windows are broken. The increase in incidents happened after the church lay dormant for many years and then was restored.

Burglars Broke into Neumark Church

May 31, 2022, Germany

An initial investigation revealed that the church in Neumark was broken into on the 31st of May. Unknown intruders gained access to the church by breaking a side door. It was not yet known if anything had been stolen but cupboards and doors were opened to search for valuables. The property damage was around 3,000 euros.

Student Pro-Life Group Launches Petition after Being Rejected from 6 Universities

May 31, 2022, Germany

The group "Pro-Life Europe" has launched a petition to be admitted at the University of Regensburg. Since 2020, they have been refused a place in 6 universities in German speaking countries; a serious challenge to freedom of speech. In 2021, the students tried to be accepted as a group at the University of Regensburg to discuss the topic of abortion with scientific approaches. Despite asking three times and complying with the guidelines, they were rejected without reason; while other groups were given full support. Similar opposition was met at other universities including TU Munich, the University of Wuppertal, the University of Augsburg, the Johannes Kepler University , and the University of Vienna which denied them a stand. The organization is not religious, but many belonging students identify as Christians and are representative of religious groups with similar opinions.

Books with Anti-Catholic Language Distributed by Castellon City Council

May 31, 2022, Spain

A lawsuit filed in October 2021 by the Spanish Foundation of Christian Lawyers to remove books with anti-Catholic language has been dismissed. In the mentioned books, it is possible to find statements such as "The bishop gets it in the ass", "Hookers in the Vatican" and "Allah is not great and Jesus does not love us". The lawsuit called for the reiteration of 32 LGTBI-themed books distributed to 12 public institutes of Castellón and in the center of minors Pi Gros. The books were distributed by the City Council. The Contentious-Administrative Court 1 of Castellón dismissed the case. The Spanish Foundation of Christian Lawyers said they will appeal the judicial decision before the Superior Court of Justice, on the grounds that, in their perspective, "these books violate fundamental rights and incite hatred against all religions".

Vandalism in a Brianza Church

May 30, 2022, Italy

In the church of Santa Maria Nascente, in Piazza Della Chiesa, someone entered the nave and threw chairs around the floor, leaving some tipped over. The incident, which expressed hate toward the church, happened on May 30th.

Vandals Attack Church Saint Mary's Church in Brianza

May 30, 2022, Italy

Two similar attacks have been registered in Brianza and Meda. In one, vandals entered the Sanctuary of the Holy Crucifix Church in Meda on the 30th of May. They threw chairs to the ground and emptied the hand sanitiser gel, that was at the entrance to the building, onto the floor. A brass crucifix was also found folded up. A similar attack happened near this time in the Santa Maria Nascente Church in Brianza.

Salzburg: Van from Catholic Group Graffitied for 7th Time

May 30, 2022, Austria

For the 7th time, a vehicle of the Catholic help group "HOME Base" Salzburg, was spray-painted, covering the name, logo, and slogan on the van. This time it happened on the 30th of May. The victims later wrote on Facebook "Thank you, dear 'Antifada' confused neighbors." They also called on the City of Salzburg to do something to prevent such attacks.

Church in Przyjaźń Looted, Thief Takes Mass Wine

May 30, 2022, Poland

A 27-year-old from the Kartuzy district looted the Church of St. John the Evangelist in Przyjaźń on May 30th. He took two bottles of mass wine from the church, an amplifier and a halogen lamp. After the man was caught by the police and fined PLN 500, the stolen property was all recovered. The value was estimated around PLN 300.

Vandals Ransacked Church interior in Meda

May 30, 2022, Italy

Unknown vandals entered the Santo Crocifisso Church in Meda and ransacked the inside on May 30th. They overturned chairs, sprayed disinfectant everywhere, and threw that brass altar cross onto the floor which bent it, causing damage. The local police started an investigation into the crime using video from surveillance cameras.

Window smashed in Sankt Bonifatius Church in Goddelau

May 30, 2022, Germany

During a prayer on the 30th of May, a window of the Sankt Bonifatius church in Coddelau was smashed. This was not the first attack the church experience as a year earlier, the tabernacle was stolen. The vandal was not identified.

Extensive Vandalism and Desecration to a Schömberg Church

May 29, 2022, Germany

The Catholic Church of St. Joseph in Schömberg experienced an extensive vandalistic attack on May 29th. Paper towels were strewn all over the floor and one was used to snuff out the eternal light. The altar cloth was left soiled and crumpled, and evidence suggested that the altar was walked on. The unknown intruder had also urinated in the baptismal font. Those who take care of the church were shocked by the incident.

Attempted Arson at Church Choir in Paris

May 28, 2022, France

On the 28 of May, an individual tried to set fire to the choir of the church of Sainte Odile in the 17th district of Paris. The mayor of the district, Geoffroy Boulard, posted on Twitter: "I condemn the desecration of the church of St. Odilia with a fire in the choir. The worst avoided thanks to the reaction of the parish staff and the police who quickly arrested the individual. I renew my support to Father Biaggi whom I spoke to on the phone."

Extreme Vandalism and Property Damage to Church in Barrhead

May 27, 2022, United Kingdom

In a series of break-ins at the former South and Levern Church, more than £50,000 of damage was caused by unknown vandals. In the latest act of vandalism on the 27th of May, the organ was destroyed and radiators were torn off the walls. Although the church has been closed, it is still a sight that carries religious sentiment for many people.

Norway: Politician Wants to Abolish All Christian Holidays

May 26, 2022, Norway

Ane Breivik, a Young Left leader in Norway, wants to dispose of all Christian holidays and mid-week red days, as they are a "relic from another time." She said that most people don't celebrate them anyway and would prefer to take the time off when they want to. She said this near Ascension holiday, which she used as an example of a holiday that could be removed since this year it landed on a Thursday which is inconvenient for many.

Statue of Madonna Taken from Chapel in Maccarese

May 26, 2022, Italy

On May 26th, a statue of Madonna was stolen from the Blessed Virgin Mary chapel in Maccarese. The statue is not of great material value, but its spiritual value to the religious community is immense. The Diocese condemned the gesture "In reparation for the offense to the Mother of God and in prayer for the conversion of the hearts of the perpetrators of the crime."

Electric Scooter Entered Basilica During Mass

May 26, 2022, Spain

David Moreno, a spokesman for VOX Talavera, requested that the driver of the electric scooter, which entered the Basilica of Our Lady of the Prado in Talavera, be identified and charged. He explained that the "offensive acts like this cannot be allowed," and that the driver should be charged with crimes against religious freedom and disrespect of religious sentiment. He said: "no prank justifies disrespect for a Catholic temple, attacking religious sentiments."

Arson Attack on Church in Nonnenweier

May 26, 2022, Germany

On May 26th, on Ascension Day, a pool of disinfectant was set on fire in the Nonnenweier church, and hymn books were thrown around with their pages torn out. The property damage was around 1000 euros but there were no good clues as to who the perpetrators could be. Pastor Christine Egenlauf, expressed her shock and lamented the incident, also mentioning that someone could have been hurt. The police had started investigating.

Small Chapel Destroyed in Marghera, Venice

May 26, 2022, Italy

The mayor of Venice, Luigi Brugnaro, posted a picture on his Twitter on the 26. May that showed an oratory that had been vandalized in Marghera. The oratory was in Piazzale Giovannacci on the corner with Via Ulloa in Marghera. He also indicated that the perpetrator had been identified by the local Police.

Threatening Graffiti Appears on Church That Helps Ucranian Refugees

May 25, 2022, Spain

On the 25. of April a newspaper reported that a church in Murcia, in the district of Espinardo, was tagged with threatening graffiti. The Holy Spirit parish has been taking seven Ukrainian refugees since March, two mothers with their daughters and one more woman. The inscriptions seem to be against the Ucranians. Other neighbours reported seeing foreigners throwing stones at the women.

Church Information Board Set Alight and Holy Water Fonts Contaminated

May 25, 2022, Germany

On May 25th, the information board of the Church of St. Antonius in Hörstel was set on fire by unknown perpetrators. The sheets of paper hanging there were burned, which damaged the board, and disinfectant was poured into the holy water fonts. The police began an investigation and was asking for witnesses.

Perpetrators Steal Organ Key, Try to Open Sacrificial Box and Soil Statue in Church

May 25, 2022, Germany

Between the 21st and 25th of May, unknown intruders broke into the sacristy of the St. Jakobus Church in Sögel. They stole the organ key and hygrometer, but were unsuccessful in an attempt to break open the sacrificial box. The property damage was around 100 euros, and they also soiled a statue. An investigation was started by the police who needed more information.

Saint Statues Decapitated and Damaged in Marseille Church

May 25, 2022, France

A judicial inquiry was opened into an incident on the 25th of May in which four Statues in the Saint-Henri church in Marseille were damaged, two of the statues were decapitated. Father Gabriel Priou, said, “There was no Eucharistic profanation, but the statues have been defaced." He continued, “A fact like this impacts the Christian community because the church is its home.”

Church in Perugia Vandalized With Political Graffiti

May 24, 2022, Italy

Vandals graffitied the wall of the Church of the Madonna dei Cenciarelli, in Perugia, on May 24th. The inscription read: "Enough with NATO: free and sovereign Italy." The vandals damaged an 18th-century old church to write a political message showing a lack of respect for the religious sight. Apart from that, the stairs of the church were stained with beer and rests of food.

Children from Football Club Threatened with Sanctions if They go to First Communion Ceremony

May 24, 2022, Spain

The Castilla-La Mancha Football Federation refused to change the date of a match, forcing the young players from Membrilla's football team to choose between celebrating their first communion or playing the league final. The Federation further threatened them with sanctions, since the parents choose the church instead of submitting to the sports institution.

Paint Bombs Thrown at Church in Tacoronte, Tenerife

May 23, 2022, Spain

A few days before the 23rd of May, the façade of the Santa Catalina church in Tacoronte was splashed with red paint by an unknown person. The primary target of the graffiti was a plaque that has been in place since 1938 and bears the name of the founder José Antonio Primo de Rivera on it. Although he was a political figure which could be the motive for the attack, a church has also suffered the consequences and it will take around 3,000 euros to restore.

Vandals Try to Break-In in Church Leaving 3000 Euro Damage

May 23, 2022, Germany

Unknown people attempted to break into the church in Melsung on May 23rd and caused significant damage. The tried to open the doors and windows to gain access to the inside of the church but were unsuccessful. The property damage was around 3,000 euros.

Windows Broken by Teenagers at Ringmer Church

May 23, 2022, United Kingdom

The stained glass windows of the Church of St. Mary the Virgin in Ringmer were broken by youth with catapults and ball bearings on May 23rd. The police identified the culprits and confiscated their catapults. A police spokesperson said: “The youths will subsequently be coming into Lewes Police Station to account for their actions.”

Church in Abruzzo Attacked with Stones

May 23, 2022, Italy

The façade of the Church of S.Onofrio, connected to the Convent of the Zoccolanti of Raiano, was kicked and stoned by unknown people on May 23rd. The church dates back to the 17th century and is in Abruzzo. A complaint was filed and the carabinieri started an investigation but people were left dismayed and angry.

Red Tags Smeared on Church in Andria

May 23, 2022, Italy

The façade of the Church of the Madonna del Carmine in Andria was tagged with red paint on May 23rd. This was not the first of such incidents and the State police immediately began an investigation to find out who painted the graffiti.

Chapel of Our Lady in Legionowo Vandalized

May 23, 2022, Poland

Shortly after the statue of the Pope was vandalized in Legionowo, the Chapel of Our Lady at the roundabout near Krasińskiego Street was devastated. The unknown perpetrator broke the glass in front of a figure and bent the cross. The police were investigating the incident to find the criminal who would be charged with offending religious feelings and damage to property.

18 Graves Vandalised at Cemetery and Knocked Down Crosses

May 23, 2022, France

Between the 22 to 23 May, 18 graves were vandalized or damaged in the cemetery of Rocquemont, a commune located between Rouen and Saint-Saëns. The perpetrators damaged ornamental plaques, decorations and flower pots. A person who lives near the cemetery heard the noise that night and reported it.

Newtown Church Windows Vandalized For a Second Time

May 22, 2022, United Kingdom

After the windows of the St. David's Church in Newtown were broken the month before, someone returned to break them again on the 22nd of May. The church has not been used for many years but is a historic building and a religious symbol. Paul Williams, a local, said: "This is really sickening yet again. Whoever you are, stop it."

Statistics in Brussels show: 53 Churches Vandalized and 1 Mosque

May 22, 2022, Belgium

Between 2019 and 2022, 53 cases of church vandalism were recorded in Brussels, while only 1 mosque was vandalized in the same region and time frame. Dominiek Lootens, leader of the Vlaams Belang group in the Brussels Parliament, wrote to Prime Minister Rudi Vervoort and asked him to communicate the extent of the damage, reported "Our Central Europe". The report also pointed out that the media and politics failed to mention these numbers as they refuse to recognize this type of biased discrimination against Christians.

Arson Attack to Catholic Chapel in Newry

May 22, 2022, United Kingdom

St Catherine’s Dominican Chapel, a Catholic chapel in Newry, was targeted by arsonists who set religious books and pamphlets on fire. Nobody was hurt, in the incident which happened on the 22nd of May, but the head priest had to put the fire out. A witness said they saw youths running from the scene and it was guessed that they were the arsonists.

Teenage Arsonist Causes 5000 Euro Damage to Church in Spalt

May 21, 2022, Germany

During the afternoon on the 21st of May, a fire was noticed in a church in Spalt, that caused 5,000 euros worth of damage. An altar cloth, that was lying on the side altar, caught fire along with a wooden frame that spread the fire to the entrance door. After a police investigation, the fire was thought to be arson and eventually a suspect was arrested. Proceedings were started against the potential teenage arsonist for property damage and disruption of religious practice. The police later confirmed that the fire had been caused by arson.

Statue of Madonna Stolen from Church in Lodi

May 21, 2022, Italy

On the afternoon of May the 21st, a small marble statue of Madonna was stolen from the parish church in Lodi. No sign of a break in was found, so it was concluded that the thief must have waited till soon after mass, and then broken the statue off from near the side of the altar. The carabinieri were notified and carried out an inspection.

Vienna: Historic Karlskirche Smeared with Graffiti (Again)

May 21, 2022, Austria

On the 21st of May, the Karlskirche in Vienna was graffitied for the fourth time in 2022. It is not known who did it. According to the Witness who reported these incidents, this is the worst year so far with vandalism and there are damages to the church almost every day.

Thieves Break in and Steal Consecrated Hosts in Guia

May 21, 2022, Italy

Hosts were stolen from the Ancient Church of San Gregorio in Valdobbiadene on May 21st. The side door of the church was forced open and then the intruder opened the tabernacle and took the consecrated hosts. Fr Romeo Penon, parish priest of Valdobbiadene, said: "It is a sacrilege, we fear that they are destined for black masses or séances"

Pope's Monument in Legionowo Vandalized Repeated Times

May 21, 2022, Poland

On May 21st, the statue of the Pope in a park in Legionowo was vandalized. Flags of the church, papal, and Ukraine, were stolen from the statue's hands, and the Polish flag, was torn and pressed into the crucifix. This was not the first time the statue has been attacked and the police began an investigation to find out who committed the act.

Theft and Vandalism in Ralingen Church

May 21, 2022, Germany

Mobile phones that had been collected in the Ralingen church donation box, were stolen on May 21st. Beer was also spilt near the altar which did not cause damage to the altar but tainted the sacred space. Earlier, the pastor noticed several young people who were drinking in the area of the church. The police started an investigation and requested that places of worship be respected.

Orthodox Church seized and raided by armed group

May 21, 2022, Ukraine

A Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Ivankov (Kyiv region) was raided by unidentified armed persons. The perpetrators cut down the lock of the church and raided the interior, expelling the parishioners and the priest. When the clergy of the church tried to file a crime report, the police refused to take it seriously. It was the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Graffiti on Santa Maria Church in Palermo

May 20, 2022, Italy

Inscriptions painted in black were discovered on the façade of the Santa Maria di Valverde church in Palermo. The incident was reported on May 20th and residents thought it happened during the night but were not sure who did it. The writing was made with spray paint and detracts from the beauty of the church.

Church in Ayrshire Repeatedly Targeted by Vandals

May 20, 2022, United Kingdom

The Kilmarnock South Parish Church in Ayrshire, was repeatedly targeted by vandals during May. Over several weeks, doors were smashed and glass was broken by a group of youth who were seen on CCTV. A spokesperson for The Well, an outreach group that organizes events at the church, said: "We are slowly trying to get the place up and running to serve the community but this is just soul destroying."

Sacrilegious Theft in Capergnanica Church

May 20, 2022, Italy

A bas-relief of the Madonna with Child was stolen from the altar of the parish church in Capergnanica. The priest, don Andrea Rusconi, thought the sacrilegious theft happened on the 20th of May despite it being reported the next day. The church is typically left open even when there is no mass for the faithful to come and pray.

Church in Schneverdingen Broken Into and Looted

May 20, 2022, Germany

During the night on the 20th of May, the Peter and Paul Church in Schneverdingen was broken into by anonymous intruders. They smashed the window to enter the church and then forced open the door from the inside. They didn't steal anything of great value but did take two electronic devices from the parish.

Sacred Objects Stolen from Church in Kropp

May 20, 2022, Germany

Between the 15th and 20th of May, a church in Kropp was broken into by unknown intruders who stole various sacred objects as well as an electronic piano. The items taken were a baptismal font, a silver-coloured baptismal font, and two antique candlesticks. The police began a criminal investigation and asked for information from witnesses.

European Parliament Votes Down Motion to Debate Christian Persecution

May 20, 2022, Belgium

On May 20th, there was a motion in the European Parliament to debate the topic of Christian Persecution, and in particular, the case of Deborah Samuel Yabuku, who was murdered in Nigeria after her peers falsely accused her of blasphemy. She had thanked Jesus in a class WhatsApp group for helping her in an exam and was accused of insulting the prophet Mohammad. The motion to discuss this was rejected with 231 votes for, and 244 against, to which some MEPs shouted “shame on you” across the plenary floor.