Continuous Thefts and Disturbances Force Christuskirche to Lock Doors
The Old Catholic Christuskirche in Ried im Innkreis has faced repeated disturbances, including displaced crosses and scattered materials, culminating on Halloween night, 31 October 2025, when its cash box was broken open and money stolen. In response, the parish vicar has locked the church on weekdays. "That was no longer a rascal prank", the parish vicar commented.
The Old Catholic Churistuskirche has been subjected to a variety of unwanted incidents, including displaced crosses or advertising materials scattered around. The most recent incident occured around Halloween night, 31 October 2025, when the church’s cash box was broken open and the money stolen. The growing frequency of such incidents prompted a more serious response from the parish vicar, "That was no longer a rascal prank" he said. In response, the parish vicar decided to keep the church locked on weekdays until further notice.
A police report was filed on Monday, 3 November, and an investigation is currently underway. The installation of video surveillance is being considered but remains unlikely, as the parish’s financial means are limited.
Source: meinbezirk.at, krone.at
Image: Altkatholische Kirchengemeinde Ried im Innkreis – Christuskirche Parish
