All cases

Third Theft in Madonna delle Lacrime Sanctuary in one Month

September 4, 2021, Italy

For the third time in a row, the Madonna Delle Lacrime Sanctuary located in Siracusa has been robbed of its offerings and vandalized. The last incident happened between the 3rd and 4th of September. The thieves seemed to have entered through the side door, shattering its glass, as seen in the photo. Police and forensic personnel are carrying out investigations.

Arson Caused Damage of Several Thousand Francs to St.Andrea's Church in Gossau

September 3, 2021, Switzerland

Unknown persons set fire to several objects between 4.45 pm and 6 pm on the 3rd of September. Fortunately, the fire went out by itself. The arson was discovered by the sexton, who smelled smoke when entering the church. He found a singed wooden table with charred objects. According to the St. Gallen cantonal police, property damage amounting to several thousand francs was caused. The Priest of the Church, Andy Givel, expressed surprise and concern regarding the incident.

Chiesa Matrice di Alessandria della Rocca Robbed and Vandalised

September 3, 2021, Italy

According to initial investigations, the robbery took place on the 27th of August, but the parish priest of the church reported the incident to the police only on 3 September. Unknown perpetrators broke into Chiesa Matrice di Alessandria della Rocca and vandalised the tabernacle by stealing the gold and cooper door of the tabernacle. The perpetrators also looted the collection box. The police are investigating.

Church Door Glued Shut in Verín

September 3, 2021, Spain

The door of the Os Remedios church in Verín was glued and wired shut by vandals to prevent the mass for the Virgin being celebrated. The parishioners were disgusted by that act and had to pray outside. A complaint was filed and a locksmith eventually managed to open the door.

New Study in Ireland Reveals: Catholic Students Are most Affected by Bullying

September 2, 2021, Ireland

A recent study by the "National Anti-Bullying Research and Resource Centre" of the University of Dublin proves that Christian students are particularly affected by intolerance and discrimination in secondary schools. The report is based on 214 interviews with religious education teachers from each of Ireland's secondary schools. Half of the surveyed schools recognised bullying because of a students faith as a problem. Teachers expressed their concern about negative stereotyping and exclusion of students with strong beliefs or unpopular opinions. According to the responses in the study, Christians and particularly Catholics have been targeted the most. One teacher noted: "It is now socially accepted in Ireland that Catholics are insulted or belittled."

Saint-François Church in Le Havre Desecrated with Stanic Grafitti

September 2, 2021, France

Graffitis were found on the front door of Saint-François church representing satanic symbols, inverted crosses and also insults against the police. The city council denounced the vandalistic act.

Statue of Saint Timothy Vandalised in Termoli

September 1, 2021, Italy

A vandal damaged the clay statue of Saint Timothy on 1 September, located on the roundabout near the Homonim church. As reported by a witness, the perpetrator seemed restless because he was muttering and accusing.

Church in Tamines Repeatedly Vandalised

September 1, 2021, Belgium

The church of Bachères, in Tamines, was continually vandalized by unknown groups of individuals during the week leading to the 1st of September, according to local residents. They reported the late night activities at the old church and the acts of degradation to the police. These incidents showed a lack of respect for a sight that is sacred for many.

Vandalism and Desecration in the Church of Ca' de Caroli in Scandiano

September 1, 2021, Italy

On 1 September the walls of the church were vandalised and statues, furnishings and liturgical objects destroyed. The Vicar-general rushed to the place of the incident as soon as possible, to evaluate the damages and calm down the community. In the forthcoming weeks, Bishop Massimo Camisasca will visit the church and preside a Holy Mass.

Theft and Vandalism in Church in Corigliano-Rossano

August 31, 2021, Italy

Two men, 18 and 19 years old, have been arrested for theft and damage to property of the Maria Santissima Delle Grazie church in Corigliano-Rossano. They broke a votive lamp, knocked the Santo Rita statue to the floor, and caused damage of around 10,000 euros. They are awaiting trial.