Church of Knittelsheim Burgled and Desecrated, Consecrated Hosts Scattered Across Altar
A burglary at the Catholic Church of St. George in Knittelsheim left the building severely damaged, with sacred objects stolen and consecrated hosts scattered during the break-in. Authorities have confirmed extensive vandalism and ongoing investigation.
The Catholic Church of St. George in Knittelsheim was broken into by unknown perpetrators who forced entry through a side door before ransacking multiple areas of the building, including the sacristy and the altar boys’ changing room. The intruders caused significant material destruction, forcing open cupboards and drawers and leaving the interior in a state described by local sources as a “picture of devastation.”
Several sacred objects were stolen during the burglary, including chalices taken from the tabernacle. In a further act of desecration, the tabernacle was opened and the consecrated hosts were removed, with reports confirming they were scattered across the altar table and on the floor of the church. Parish officials stated that this has rendered the church temporarily unusable for services, with all scheduled Masses suspended until further notice.
Police officers attended the scene, documented the damage, and launched an investigation into the incident, which remains unresolved.
Source: wochenblatt-reporter, rheinpfalz.de, pfalz-express
Photo: Wikipedia