Church closes after attacks on parish staff
The parish of Breitenfeld has had to severely restrict access to its church following repeated violent attacks and acts of vandalism against Christian workers. An unknown man attacked a parish secretary, pushing her to the ground and kicking her several times. A few days later, a 74-year-old sexton was similarly attacked, suffering injuries so severe that he had to be hospitalised for several days. Vandalism to the church building was also confirmed. As a result, the church is now only open for mass, and there is a police presence.
In their official parish newsletter, Father Gregor Jansen said: "To our great pain and dismay, two parish workers have been severely physically attacked and injured by an offender in recent weeks." The parish stressed that these repeated attacks on Christian workers and property have forced them to take "massive measures" to protect staff, volunteers and visitors, highlighting the growing concern for security even in places traditionally dedicated to peace and prayer.
Source: mein Bezirk
Picture: yelp