Church of St-Eloi closes due to repeated acts of vandalism
The Saint-Éloi Church in Hazebrouck was closed on 10 August following repeated acts of deliberate damage to the church building. The reported damage included attacks on statues and the altar, prompting the parish to close for five days out of security concerns for the historic and religious monument.
On 10 August 2026, the Saint-Éloi Church in Hazebrouck closed after it had suffered repeated acts of vandalism and deliberate property damage. Reports indicate that statues and the altar had been damaged and defaced on several occasions. The repeated incidents led to questions concerning the church's security. The parish, Fr. Christophe Aernouts, then concluded that the church could no longer remain open under the existing conditions, with an exception for Sunday Masses.
A spokesperson from the City of Hazebrouck stated: "Beyond the material damage, these events affect an iconic landmark of Hazebrouck's heritage and important place of reflection for many residents."
Sources: actu.fr, lavoixdunord
Image: Wiki Commons
