Bergisch Gladbach Church Closed After Arson and Vandalism
St Laurentius Church in Bergisch Gladbach was closed following repeated acts of vandalism, including arson, damage to pews, and theft of items from the interior.
The most recent incident involved a burnt pew in front of a pietà sculpture, which was discovered by church staff.
“This is extremely distressing — there is virtually no respect left for the church as a sacred space,” said parish priest Norbert Hörter, explaining the decision to restrict access to the building outside of worship services. In recent weeks, the church had also suffered from discarded cigarette butts, graffiti, and further thefts.
The church had recently undergone a £2.8 million renovation, completed in 2024. The latest fire damage, combined with previous vandalism, added to the destruction sustained during the refurbishment.
Authorities reported that no suspects had been apprehended, although some individuals had previously been issued exclusion orders. Police continued their investigation into the incidents.
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