All cases

Virgin Mary Statue Desecrated in Attack in Porto-Vecchio

October 1, 2026, France

During the night of 30 September to 1 October, a statue of the Virgin Mary at a public street in Porto-Vecchio, Corsica, was deliberately pulled from its pedestal and destroyed while perpetrators filmed the incident. The statue, known as 'A Vergine Maria', is a place of devotion for local residents. The Catholic Church of Corsica has expressed support for the parish community and called on the faithful to pray for the conversion of those responsible.

Christ Figure Found Destroyed in Grainau

September 30, 2026, Germany

In late September 2026, an approximately 120-year-old wooden figure of Christ at the Baschner Cross near the Jägersteig in Grainau was found torn down from the cross and smashed into pieces. The incident has shocked local residents, as this was the second reported attack on the figure, and it will now be repaired for the second time. The parish priest has called for forgiveness in the matter, though still affirmed that such an incident affects the local community and not only Christians.

Felix Ngole Addresses Court of Appeal in Religious Discrimination Case

September 28, 2026, United Kingdom

On 28 September 2026, Christian social worker Felix Ngole returned to the Court of Appeal in his dispute with a mental health charity that withdrew his job offer after discovering his publicly expressed Christian beliefs. A tribunal has already ruled that the initial withdrawal was religious discrimination, and a further appeal found errors in how his remaining claims were decided. Ngole is now asking the court to rule on those claims without requiring him to repeat part of the case before the same tribunal.

Priest dead after stabbing at Polish Benedictine Convent

September 24, 2026, Poland

A Catholic priest has died following a stabbing at a Benedictine convent in Jarosław, Poland, on 24 September, and a total of five victims were stabbed in the attack. Government officials have responded in horror at the attack, and sympathy for the members of the community. Following the attack, Rzeszów Cathedral stated that the community was filled with "great sadness" at the attack.

Christian influencer assaulted in Vienna

September 22, 2026, Austria

On 22 September, an 18-year-old Christian content creator was assaulted by two youths near an underground station in Vienna. According to his account, one attacker threatened him with a knife and he suffered injuries to his ribs, hips, and nose. The incident was reported to police, and the victim expressed the belief that the attack was related to his Christian social media content.

Cross and vestments vandalised in Grein church

September 22, 2026, Austria

On 22 September, unknown perpetrators vandalised the Stadtpfarrkirche in Grein, scattering items from the confessional, prayer books, devotional images of saints and seat cushions throughout the church. The baptismal font was damaged, while a broken cross and two of the priest’s stoles were placed in the holy-water basin.

Church near Brussels closes due to slew of vandalism

September 19, 2026, Belgium

According to a report from 19 September, St. Anne's Church in Auderghem has decided to close its doors and cease services after repeated acts of vandalism. The church council made the decision due to the incessant attacks on the historic building over the spring and summer of 2026. The measure is very shocking to the community, who relied on the church as an accessible and open place of worship.

Tabernacle forcibly removed and consecrated hosts scattered outside church in Guitiriz

September 19, 2026, Spain

On 19 September, unknown individuals forcibly removed and opened the tabernacle of the parish church of Santa Maria de Lagostelle in Guitiriz, stealing the ciborium containing consecrated hosts. The hosts were subsequently scattered outside the church, while the silver ciborium remained missing. The incident constitutes desecration and sacrilegious theft and was condemned by the Diocese as a direct affront against the Eucharist and the centre of the Catholic faith.

ISIS Supporter Arrested over Planned Attack on Bremen Church

September 17, 2026, Germany

In Brandenburg, federal prosecutors have arrested a man on suspicion of planning a serious act of violence against a church in Bremen, allegedly acquiring a firearm for this purpose. The 24-year-old individual is believed to be a supporter of the so-called Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist organisation, and was arrested by the Federal Criminal Police Office and was brought before the investigating judge on 17 September under suspicion of attempting to establish a terrorist organisation, preparing a serious crime endangering the state, and violating weapons laws.

Attack on Catholic Clinic in Flensburg

September 17, 2026, Germany

According to a report from 17 September, a Catholic clinic in Flensburg has been targeted in an attack by unknown protesters who have smeared the entrance of the hospital with a pro-abortionist inscription, as well as vandalising an information board. The perpetrators also left hangers at the entrance, which is used as a political symbol by pro-abortionists. The report identifies all the actions as directly targeting the attitude of the Catholic hospital, since it no longer performed abortion procedures.

Lindenfels Catholic Church closed after repeated vandalism

September 15, 2026, Germany

In September, the Catholic Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Lindenfels was the target of repeated acts of vandalism, forcing it to close its doors outside of Mass and other services in order to protect the building. Consequently, the community's access to this place of worship a has been limited.

Crosses broken and Catholic graves targeted at Moselle cemetery

September 15, 2026, France

An unprecedented act of vandalism occurred on the night of 14 to 15 September, where a woman vandalised almost 100 gravestones in Maizières-lès-Metz Cemetery in Moselle. Gravestones were defaced, with countless crosses and crucifixes found broken and tossed onto the surrounding property. Police are investigating whether the gravestones of Catholics were specifically targeted on the basis of religion. The local community, officials, and diocese expressed deep sadness and outrage at what they believed to be a direct attack on the respect due to the dead, a religious site, and communal unity. On 25 September, the Diocese of Metz organised a time of prayer for all the deceased whose graves were desecrated.

Church in Haar is attacked during slew of arson attempts

September 14, 2026, Germany

As reported on 15 September, there have been five serious cases of attempted arson in Munich, where unknown individuals have thrown fireworks into several buildings, including the Church of St. Boniface, in Haar, wherein children were being blessed at the time of the incident. Police are now investigating potential suspects.

Vandals smash statue of Virgin Mary at historic chapel

September 14, 2026, Poland

A report from 15 September described two incidents of vandalism targeting the same historical chapel at the intersection of a public street. The unknown perpetrators smashed and poured paint over a statue of the Virgin Mary, damaging the pedestal, the interior of the nice, and the glass. Local residents and the parish priest were left shocked by the incident, which they described as a clear act of blasphemy.

Man arrested after shouting Islamist slogan outside a Church

September 11, 2026, France

A 35-year old man was arrested following an incident at a church in Moselle where, armed with a knife, he entered the building and shouted "Allah Akbar." The man was sentenced to six months imprisonment with a suspended sentence on 11 September.

Arsonist Destroys Historic Crucifix in Lucka

September 11, 2026, Germany

A historic crucifix was set on fire with the figure of Jesus being completely destroyed in a Lutheran church in Lucka. Many parts of church furnishings were severely damaged, in particular around the sanctuary and including the altar, which was defaced with swastikas and other symbols. The person suspected of setting the fire was identified quickly after the crime occurred and an investigation into the crime is ongoing.

Nine-Year-Old Boy Injured in Alleged Attack at Bus Stop

September 11, 2026, Austria

On 11 September, a nine-year-old boy was allegedly attacked by several children at a bus stop in Höchst after attending summer school. According to his father, the boy was pushed to the ground, punched and kicked, following threats and insults directed at him the previous day because of his Christian faith.

Priest attacked outside of parish church in Prato

September 9, 2026, Italy

On 9 September, a priest of the Church of Santa Maria del Soccorso was threatened and attacked outside the church. According to the report, several non-EU citizens had been staying on the steps of the church, and at first threatened him, then proceeded to physical violence with a chair. The bishop of Prato has responded in condemnation to the "regrettable and serious" and expressed deep concern, underlying the gravity of the incident.

Desecration in Noia

September 7, 2026, Spain

According to a report from 18 September, a Mass of Reparation and Atonement was held in Noia after five unknown perpetrators entered the Church of San Martiño, opened the tabernacle and stole two ciboria containing consecrated hosts. Both the parish priest and the bishop expressed deep pain of the community over the attack on what is considered most sacred to the Catholic faith, yet appealed to respond with fatih, worship, love, and prayer for the perpetrators.

Protestors disrupt Holy Mass during pro-life prayer

September 5, 2026, United Kingdom

On September 5, pro-abortion activists entered Westminster Cathedral during the opening Mass of the annual March for Life and interrupted the religious celebration in front of worshippers. The intrusion, which included holding banners and shouting pro-abortion slogans in front of the church sanctuary, occurred amidst an already hostile atmosphere outside the cathedral, where pro-abortion protesters reportedly heckled participants, shouting anti-Christian slogans, and disrupting the major Catholic pro-life event with many notable members of the church present.

Greek Catholic Parish targeted with arson and anti-Ukrainian graffiti

September 5, 2026, Poland

On 5 September, unknown individuals set fire to vegetation on the grounds of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Parish in Legnica, damaging part of the property. At approximately the same time, anti-Ukrainian inscriptions were also reported nearby, prompting the Ukrainian Consulate to ask authorities to investigate the motivations behind the incidents, and emphasising that attacks on Ukrainians, religious groups, and places of worship are unacceptable. The incident, which is not the first to target the Ukrainian Catholic community, caused significant emotional distress to the community.

UK Evangelist Acquitted after Prosecution for Sharing Gospel Leaflets in Soho

September 4, 2026, United Kingdom

On 4 September 2026, a London court acquitted Christian evangelist Richard Johnson, who had been prosecuted for distributing a Gospel leaflet in Soho. A complainant described the neighbourhood as an LGBT “safe space”, and prosecutors argued that the location mattered when assessing the leaflet. The court found that the prosecution had not proved a public order offence, despite accepting that the leaflet had upset and offended its reader.

Priest appeals for help as crucifix is defaced

September 2, 2026, Italy

As reported on 2 September, the crucifix in the Church of the Nativity of San Giovanni Battista in Mezzolombardo was recently defaced. The parish priest announced the defacement which caused bitterness in the community, and appealed for the creation of a new crucifix as a sign of unity.

Crucifix in the Chapel of Santa Croce broken to pieces

September 1, 2026, Italy

On 1 September, the Chapel of Santa Croce al Piano in Colognola ai Colli was subjected to a serious act of vandalism that caused damage to furnishings, religious images, and sacred art; most notably to a crucifix which was found smashed. A man was detained in connection with the serious incident, which affected a place of worship particularly dear to the local community, arousing "indignation" over the acts.

Vandalism and Harassment of the faithful Leads to Church Closure

September 1, 2026, Italy

According to reports from 1 September, a group of young people repeatedly caused disturbances at the church in Lunetta, including entering the building and blaspheming at the faithful who were praying; littering and causing damage to the churchyard. The parish responded by closing the church during the mornings until the reopening of schools, citing the need to protect the faithful and prevent further vandalism.

Two suspected arson attempts at Saint-Martin Church

September 1, 2026, France

According to reports from 1 September, two fires were deliberately started inside the Saint-Martin Church in Templeuve-en-Pévèle, Nord on 31 August. The fires caused only minor damage, according to the available reporting, but the circumstances indicate a deliberate arson attempt targeting of the church. A social media post described the incident as an attack on a place of worship that insults the common identity and history of the community.

Vandals tear Christ figure off tabernacle in church vandalism

August 30, 2026, Germany

On 30 August, St. George's Church in Reichmannshausen was vandalised. The church's religious symbols were targeted, with a figure of Christ torn from the tabernacle, a crucifix destroyed, along with the oil from several candles being spilled in the church.

Religious statues smashed at two wayside chapels in Mazovia

August 30, 2026, Poland

On 30 August 2026, a 21-year-old man vandalised two Catholic wayside chapels in Zygmunty and nearby Przyłęk, damaging religious images and statues and breaking windows and doors. He was arrested, admitted for the offence and was charged with insulting a place intended for the public performance of religious rites; the incident involved deliberate destruction of sacred objects and caused damage to two places of worship.

Altar destroyed and Statue Smashed in Bari Chapel

August 29, 2026, Italy

On 29 August 2026, unknown perpetrators vandalised a Catholic cemetery chapel in Bari, completely destroying its altar and smashing a statue of the Virgin Mary. An empty tabernacle and priestly vestments were also stolen, causing deep pain within the local Catholic community, particularly as the incident occurred shortly before the chapel's patronal feast.

Bishop Condemns Deliberate Desecration of Pavia Cemetery Chapel

August 29, 2026, Italy

Between 28 and 29 August 2026, unknown perpetrators broke into the Chapel of San Giovannino Cemetery in Pavia, forced open the tabernacle and stole a ciborium containing consecrated hosts. Several hosts were found on the floor, while others were recovered inside the chapel during a subsequent police inspection. The incident was described by the Bishop as a “very serious act of sacrilege” and prompted a Mass of reparation, and prayers for repentance of the perpetrators.

Third Theft of Consecrated Hosts; Potential Occult Motive Investigated

August 29, 2026, Italy

On 29 August 2026, a ciborium containing consecrated hosts was stolen from Santa Maria Maggiore Church in Scordia, making the incident the latest of three sacrilegious thefts reported within a few days at churches in different parts of Italy. The three cases involved either consecrated hosts or a tabernacle, and authorities are investigating whether they could be connected, including the possibility of an occult motive. The theft caused deep distress within the local Christian community and prompted the bishop to call for prayers of reparation and Eucharistic adoration.

Parish of San Nicolás demands action after ongoing acts of vandalism

August 27, 2026, Spain

On 27 August, the Parish of San Nicolás de Bari y San Pedro Mártir, known as the Sistine Chapel in Valencia, raised concerns over repeated vandalism and deterioration affecting the property and surroundings of the historic church, including human and animal waste littered on its walls.

Catholic Sanctuary vandalised with satanic graffiti and destroyed statue

August 27, 2026, Italy

In August, the rural St. Helena Sanctuary in Siniscola was profanely vandalised with satanic graffiti, and a statue of Saint Helena smashed, along with various other furnishings damaged. The incident constituted a sacrilegious insult to a historic place of worship which served for generations as the centre of local communal devotion.

Sixth Criminal Incursion into Churches in Indre-et-Loire in one month

August 25, 2026, France

The Saint-Pierre Church in Monts was broken into and ransacked on 25 August, a parish representative alerted the police, making it the sixth attack on churches in the Indre-et-Loire this month. Unknown persons broke down the door and reportedly moved items, but nothing was found stolen. This incident has been the latest in a slew of church attacks in the region, and has further elevated concerns about the security nof Christian places of worship for community members.  

Altar and Hymn Book Set on Fire inside St. Martinus Church

August 24, 2026, Germany

Unidentified individuals set fire to several objects inside St. Martinus Church in Pfalzdorf on 24 August, damaging an altar cloth, microphones, and a hymn book. Cash was also stolen from a candle donation box, and the offences are being investigated by police as criminal damage and theft.

Churches in Siegen Graffitied with Swastikas and Inverted Crosses

August 24, 2026, Germany

As reported on 24 August 2026, two Catholic churches in Siegen were vandalised within approximately two weeks. Swastikas were painted on both churches, while several inverted crosses were also found at St. Marien Church. The use of Nazi and anti-Christian symbols prompted an investigation by the State Security Service.

Sacred Images Damaged in Ripatransone Cathedral

August 24, 2026, Italy

In Ripanstrone, the Cathedral was burgled and damaged by four unknown criminals on 24 August. The perpetrators stole donations and deliberately damaged several sacred images, including one of the Madonna and Child, which was found smashed.

Monk Killed and Two Injured in Knife Attack at Sviatohirsk Monastery

August 23, 2026, Ukraine

On 23 August 2026, unidentified individuals killed a monk and seriously wounded another monk and a novice in a knife attack near St. Nicholas Church at the Holy Dormition Sviatohirsk Monastery in the Donetsk region. The attack targeted members of a Christian monastic community and resulted in one death and two serious injuries. The Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) subsequently reported the killing, while police opened a criminal investigation.

Icons Smashed In Orthodox Church Vandalism in Southern Albania

August 23, 2026, Albania

The Orthodox Church of Saint Athanasius in Sinicë was found vandalised on 23 August. The perpetrators damaged icons and church furnishings, and poured cement inside the building, causing intentional damage to a place of religious and historical significance to the local community. Moreover, it has raised concerns about the security of Orthodox Christian monuments in a country that had experienced religious tensions and persecution.

Serbian Orthodox Church Vandalised Causing Security Concerns for Serbs in Kosovo

August 23, 2026, Kosovo

On 23 August 2026, a man damaged two entrance doors and the exterior lighting of the Serbian Orthodox Church of the Holy Saviour in Prizren, Kosovo, an important medieval monument. The incident is the latest in a series of reported acts of vandalism affecting the historic church and comes amid broader concerns about the security of Serbian Orthodox religious sites and the Serbian community in Kosovo.

Vandals desecrate tabernacle and ransack convent during Pope's visit in San Marino

August 22, 2026, San Marino

On 22 August, sacrilegious desecration and vandalism struck the Convent of the Servite Fathers of Valdragone during Pope Leo XIV's visit to San Marino. During the incident, the perpetrators entered the chapel, forced open the tabernacle, and, removing the ciborium, scattered the consecrated hosts outside. Members of the local community were shocked and spoke of an "extremely serious" violation of the local church.

Fifth Church Desecrated in Series of Incidents in Indre-et-Loire

August 21, 2026, France

On 21 August, Saint-Joseph Church in Joué-lès-Tours became the fifth church in the Indre-et-Loire region to fall victim to vandalism in one month. In the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, the tabernacle was forced open and consecrated hosts were found scattered on the floor. The incident has forced the church to close temporarily and caused strong emotions among the local Catholic community, which spoke of an attack on the faith and the faithful. The Diocese was prompted to announce a Mass of reparation.

Consecrated Hosts Stolen in Sacrilegious Church Burglary

August 18, 2026, Italy

On 18 August 2026, the Church of Santo Stefano Protomartire in Oggiona con Santo Stefano was broken into and sacred objects, including a ciborium containing consecrated hosts, were stolen. The theft caused deep sadness among parishioners and affected objects of particular religious and devotional significance to the local community.

Icon, Cross, and Bibles stolen from Hospital chapel in Berlin

August 18, 2026, Germany

Between 17 and 18 July 2026, an icon, a cross, a holy water font and a Bible were stolen from the Charité Chapel of a hospital in Berlin. Pastoral workers at the chapel commented on the "painful and hurtful" act as the perpetrators seem to have specifically targeted objects of religious significance.

Vandals ransack and desecrate Sanctuary in Brusimpiano

August 17, 2026, Italy

On 17 August 2026, consecrated hosts were stolen from the tabernacle of the Sanctuary di Ardena in Brusimpiano after it was forced open during a break-in. The hosts were subsequently found scattered on the floor, while sacred furnishings and other objects were also damaged and stolen, constituting a sacrilegious theft and desecration.

Another statue of Mary found deliberately decapitated in Coppito

August 17, 2026, Italy

On 17 August 2026, a statue of Mary was found decapitated in the Murata Gigotti park in Coppito. The vandalism caused indignation among local residents and municipal representatives, who see the incident as an attack on the community culture as well as religious symbolism. The incident followed a similar attack on Ischia the previous day. Law enforcement are investigating the incident to identify those responsible.

Vandals damage church organ in Pellizzano

August 16, 2026, Italy

On 16 August 2026, unknown perpetrators entered the parish church in Pellizzano and bent and damaged several pipes of the church organ. The vandalism was discovered shortly before Mass and caused distress within the local community, while the parish priest announced that he would file a complaint.

Statue of Mary Beheaded on Ischia in Repeated Vandalism

August 16, 2026, Italy

As reported on 16 August 2026, a roadside statue of the Virgin Mary in Panza on the Italian island of Ischia was found beheaded. The religious statue had already been targeted by vandals twice before, making this the third reported act of vandalism against the shrine. The repeated attacks caused outrage among local residents, while a local association said that someone in the community appeared unwilling to accept its religious symbols.

Consecrated Host Stolen from Church, Raising Fears of Black Mass

August 15, 2026, France

On 15 August 2026, the tabernacle was smashed open at Saint-Quintien Church in Lieusaint and a lunette containing a consecrated host was stolen. The incident resulted in the suspension of Sunday Masses and the announcement of a Mass of Reparation, significantly affecting the local Catholic community.

Radical Left Group Attack Christian Pro-Life Prayer in Göttingen

August 15, 2026, Germany

On 15 August 2026, around 200 counter-protesters attacked a peaceful prayer gathering of approximately 20 young Christians opposing abortion. Police prevented the violent protesters, reportedly from the far-left, from reaching the participants, but twelve officers were injured during the intervention. The Christian participants were subsequently escorted from the area under police protection.

Christian Cross at Vieux Chaillol Summit Vandalised

August 15, 2026, France

A Christian cross at the summit of Vieux Chaillol was vandalised, with its horizontal arm sawn off on 15 August 2026. The cross had religious significance for Christians as well as a local historical and memorial significance, and the Diocese announced a complaint and a Mass of Reparation following the incident.

Recurring Vandalism, Desecrations and Thefts Force Churches to Restrict Opening Hours

August 14, 2026, Italy

According to a report from 14 August 2026, several churches in the Diocese of Reggio Emilia have recently experienced thefts, vandalism, and attempted desecration, including an unsuccessful attempt to force open a tabernacle. The repeated incidents have led to restrictions on church opening hours, affecting access to places of prayer and causing concern within the religious community and their historic and artistic heritage.

French Assisted Suicide and Euthanasia Law Leaves Christian Care Institutions with Conditional Protection

August 14, 2026, France

On 14 August 2026, the Constitutional Council upheld France’s legislation permitting assisted suicide and euthanasia, while requiring additional safeguards. Pharmacists gained protection against compulsory participation, but private Christian care institutions may refuse the procedure on their premises only where it clearly conflicts with their institutional mission and other establishments can meet local needs. This leaves their ability to uphold institutional conscientious objection dependent on the availability of alternative services.

Concerns Over Security of Churches in Umbria

August 13, 2026, Italy

Repeated incidents of vandalism and profanation at sacred sites in Umbria were detailed in a report from 13 August 2026. The incidents caused damage to religious objects and, in one case, even prevented the celebration of Sunday Mass. Concerns have been raised that churches may have to restrict access or install locks, potentially affecting their availability for worship and prayer.

Two churches targeted in sacrilegious thefts

August 13, 2026, Italy

On the night of 12 to 13 August 2026, the Sanctuary of Madonna in Pratis in Rudiano was burgled and desecrated, with consecrated hosts and two chalices stolen. Another parish, Madonna della Rotonda in Pumenengo was also targeted that same night. The local community announced support for the Christian community and the parish priest called for a Mass of reparation following the desecration.

Church Cross Damaged and Bible Stolen in Bayreuth

August 13, 2026, Germany

On 13 August 2026, an unknown perpetrator damaged a cross and stole a Bible from the Evangelical-Lutheran Christuskirche in Bayreuth. The cross was forcibly removed and severely bent, while the Bible attached to it was taken. Police have opened an investigation into the offence, which is not the first to affect the Bayreuth churches.

Baptismal font removed from church in Tolentino

August 12, 2026, Italy

As reported on 12 August 2026, a baptismal font was removed from the Church of Paterno in Tolentino which was temporarily closed due to repairs. The perpetrators reportedly entered through a rear door after removing a door panel and took the historic baptismal font. The incident has left the community of Paterno grappling with "great bitterness" over the looters' actions.

Repeated acts of vandalism reported at Church of Christ the King in Migennes

August 11, 2026, France

According to a report from 11 August 2026, the Church of Christ the King in Migennes has been affected by several acts of vandalism, among other forms of malicious damage since it was reopened to the public a year ago.

Bible Torn and Confessional Damaged in Church Vandalism

August 11, 2026, France

On 11 August 2026, two young people were caught inside Saint-Médard Church in Grandpré after extensive damage had been caused to the building and its religious objects. A Bible was torn, the confessional and sacristy doors were ripped off, the organ and a statue of Jean of Arc were damaged. The incident was reported as an act of "christianophobia" since it is believed the religious objects were specifically targeted for vandalism.

Wooden statue of Madonna and child removed from St. Pölten church

August 11, 2026, Austria

On 11 August 2026, the wooden statue of the Madonna and Child was found missing from the parish church of St. Johannes Kapistran in the city centre of St. Pölten. The statue was stolen just days before the Feast of the Assumption. The parish has been left shocked by the theft of the statue, which held great sentimental value for the community, but hardly any material value.

Church of St-Eloi closes due to repeated acts of vandalism

August 10, 2026, France

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.

Repeated vandalism Closure of Collegiate Church in Lugo

August 10, 2026, Italy

According to a report from 10 August 2026, the Collegiate Church of Sts. Francis and Hilary in Lugo was the target of repeated vandalism in recent weeks, including an incident in which five youths damaged church property by damaging a newly purchased candelabrum, spitting on it and breaking into donation boxes. Following the incidents, the parish has decided to close the church throughout the day.

Statue of Mary and altar defaced with black paint in Soest

August 10, 2026, Germany

On 10 August 2026, the St. Patrokli-Dom in Soest was vandalised by unknown perpetrators who defaced a statue of the Virgin Mary, a side altar, a wall and the floor with black paint. This incident is not the first to affect the cathedral, which is described as a landmark of cultural and religious heritage for the community.

Intruders Damage Altar Piece and Statue in Barcelona Church

August 10, 2026, Spain

Extensive damage was caused to the Sanctuary of Santa Eulalia de Vilapicina in Barcelona, with intruders breaking the altar door, pulling a wooden altarpiece from the wall and knocking over a religious statue. The incident caused "great pain" to those responsible for the sanctuary and temporarily disrupted local worship.

Church in Chambray-lès-Tours targeted again two weeks after profanation

August 8, 2026, France

Saint-Symphorien Church in Chambray-lès-Tours was burgled during the night of 7 to 8 August 2026, approximately two weeks after the church fell victim to desecration. The perpetrators stole numerous liturgical objects, including candlesticks, vases, holy-water fonts, crucifixes and chalices. This incident, along with other recent attacks, has prompted a response from local authorities who raised questions about the security of rural places of worship in the region.

Religious icons broken and sanctuary vandalised at chapel in Saronikos

August 7, 2026, Greece

The Chapel of the Transfiguration of the Saviour in Saronikos was vandalised on 7 August 2026, one day after the local celebration of the Feast of the Transfiguration. Unknown perpetrators damaged the chapel's interior and exterior, including breaking religious icons in front of the altar and damaging the sanctuary.

Car insurance Revoked Over ‘Jesus Loves You’ Stickers

August 7, 2026, United Kingdom

A Christian driver in the United Kingdom was told that his car insurance could not continue unless he removed “Jesus Loves You” messages displayed on his vehicle. The case has raised concerns about whether peaceful expressions of Christian belief can affect access to ordinary commercial services.

Arson attack at church in Lullin amid series of incidents

August 7, 2026, France

On 7 August 2026, a prayer book and leaflets were set alight inside Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church in Lullin, in an act which is believed to have been deliberate. Passers-by discovered the smoke and prevented the fire from spreading. According to the reports, the incident comes amid a series of recent burglaries, thefts, and acts of vandalism affecting Christian places of worship in France.

Columbarium vandalised and cremated ashes scattered at Belgian cemetery

August 7, 2026, Belgium

Reported on 7 August 2026, the columbarium at Sy Cemetery in Ferrières was vandalised, with several niches damaged and some urns opened, causing cremated remains to be scattered inside and around the cemetery. The incident caused significant distress in the community; affected families were notified and psychological support was arranged. The municipal authorities announced that a criminal complaint would be filed.

Tabernacle removed and consecrated hosts scattered outside church in Cattolica

August 7, 2026, Italy

On 7 August 2026, an act of sacrilegious theft and desecration was discovered at the Church of San Giorgio in Conca, belonging to the Parish of Santa Maria di Nazareth in Cattolica. Unknown perpetrators removed the tabernacle and took the consecrated hosts contained inside, which were subsequently found scattered outside the church. The carabinieri opened an investigation into the incident which targeted objects of central religious significance, and deeply affected the Catholic community.

Vandalism at historic Wexford Graveyard

August 7, 2026, Ireland

According to reports from 7 August, extensive vandalism was discovered at Monachán Graveyard in County Wexford, with 18 gravestones and a large stone cross damaged and a Celtic cross smashed from a wall. The locals are distressed by the incident, which was seen as a "horrifying" attack on the history and culture of the community.

Church in Parada de Ribeira Desecrated

August 7, 2026, Spain

On 7 August 2026, the parish church of San Salvador de Parada de Ribeira in Xinzo de Limia was broken into and desecrated, with the tabernacle forced open and consecrated hosts removed. The incident, which was regarded as a profanation of "extraordinary gravity," caused considerable distress in the parish and led to a penitential rite and purification of the church before worship could resume.

Attempted arson damages entrance to church in Kielce

August 4, 2026, Poland

An unknown person attempted to set fire to the side entrance of St. Joseph the Worker Church in Kielce, Poland during the night of 3 to 4 August, 2026. A burning package was placed under the church doors, partially charring the side entrance, before the fire was discovered and extinguished. Reports describe the incident as a "sad experience" for the whole parish community.

Oviedo Church is Sprayed with Racist and Anticlerical Graffiti

August 4, 2026, Spain

On 4 August 2026, racist and anticlerical graffiti was discovered on the Church of San Francisco de Asís in Oviedo, including the message "Traitor rats, welcome the Moors to the Vatican." The incident caused concern among those responsible for the church and constitutes a clear instance of targeted anti-Catholic sentiment and racist graffiti.

Man targets churches in Hampshire with occult symbols

August 3, 2026, United Kingdom

According to a report from 3 August 2026, a 48-year-old man found guilty of aggravated religious harassment after targeting several churches in the New Forest area of Hampshire, leaving animal remains with occult symbols at or inside places of worship, and in front of places of devotion between February and August 2025. The offences greatly disturbed the church communities.

Church Desecrated Following Series of Vandalism and Verbal Abuse

August 1, 2026, Spain

Santa Margarita María de Alacoque Parish in Madrid was burglarised and desecrated after intruders forced open two tabernacles, damaged the church and discarded a relic of the parish's patron saint. The incident followed months of reported vandalism and disruptions, including verbal abuse during mass, affecting the parish community

Church furnishings damaged and hymnals scattered in Waldbrunn Church

August 1, 2026, Germany

On 1 August 2026, a protestant church in Waldbrunn-Strümpfelbrunn was vandalised by unknown perpetrators. Two people are believed to have entered the church, overturned seat cushions and hymn books, and carved symbols and letters into a wooden pew. Police have opened an investigation and are looking for witnesses.

Scottish Teacher Takes Legal Action After Dismissal For Expressing Pro-Life Beliefs

July 30, 2026, United Kingdom

A Catholic teacher in Scotland has brought an employment tribunal claim after being dismissed for expressing her pro-life beliefs in response to pupils' questions during a classroom discussion. She alleges that her dismissal discriminated against her because of her Catholic beliefs and violated her freedom to express them in the workplace.

Altar Desecrated and Relics Taken From Church

July 30, 2026, Germany

Unknown perpetrators broke into St Martinus Church in Neuss-Holzheim, stole a Missal and relics of St Martin from inside the church altar, damaging the altar. The burglary caused limited material damage but a significant religious loss, requiring the altar to be blessed before it could again be used for worship.

Call to Remove Religious Symbols Hits European Court

July 28, 2026, Greece

In July 2025, the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) communicated Union of Atheists v. Greece (Application No. 001-244533), a case seeking the removal of Christian icons from Greek courtrooms. The application reflects a broader attempt to eliminate longstanding religious symbols from public institutions across Europe, raising concerns about whether state neutrality is increasingly interpreted as requiring the erasure of religious heritage from public life.

Update: Perpetrator of Medjugorje Vandalism Identified

July 28, 2026, Bosnia and Herzegovina

On the night of 27 to 28 July 2026, a scandalous desecration occurred on Apparition Hill in Medjugorje. Among the offences, the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary was tagged with a blasphemous inscription, the altar of St James' church was set on fire, and a banner with aggressive messaging to the Medjugorje seers was hung up. Police have identified a Polish national who had been a pilgrim at Medjugorje back in 2017, but since then his life had taken a difficult turn "personally and spiritually". The local Catholic community have responded urging for prayers and forgiveness for the suspect, rather than judgement.

Man throws stones at image of St Joseph and damages church property

July 28, 2026, Italy

San Giuseppe Church and its parish oratory in the Matteotti district of Saronno were damaged in a vandalism attack in which stones were thrown at the church façade, damaging the image of St Joseph and the lighting of the Oratory. The incident not only affected the Christian community, but local organisations reached out in support in light of the "deeply saddening episode."

NI Police Guidance Warns Carrying a Bible Could Be an Offence Under "Buffer Zone" Law

July 28, 2026, United Kingdom

New guidance issued by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has raised concerns that ordinary Christian pastoral ministry could fall within the scope of Northern Ireland's abortion buffer zone legislation. According to the guidance, activities such as praying with patients at their request, reading Scripture or carrying a Bible through certain areas of a hospital may constitute criminal offences if they are considered capable of influencing or causing distress to a person accessing abortion services. Critics argue that the guidance illustrates the far-reaching scope of buffer zone legislation and risks creating a chilling effect on the peaceful exercise of freedom of religion and freedom of expression.

Third Church Targeted This Week: Tabernacle Desecrated and Excrement Left Inside Saint-Symphorien

July 27, 2026, France

On the night of 26 to 27 July 2026, the church of Saint-Symphorien in Chambray-lès-Tours was left desecrated and vandalised, the third church in the Indre-et-Loire region to be targeted this week. Unknown perpetrators entered the church, opened the tabernacle and threw consecrated hosts from the ciborium on the floor along and left excrement inside the church, the Diocese of Tours stated.

Tabernacles desecrated and painting slashed at Saint-Pierre Church in Nevers

July 25, 2026, France

On 25 July 2026, Saint-Pierre Church in Nevers was found to be vandalised with intruders having damaged the tabernacles and slashed the paintings inside the historic church. The perpetrators not only caused extensive damage to the furnishings of the house of worship, but committed a serious act of desecration which deeply affected the Christian community. The reports also describe the increasing frequency of acts of vandalism affecting churches in France.

Repeated acts of vandalism damage church grounds in Weil am Rhein

July 24, 2026, Germany

The grounds and parish hall of the Catholic Church of Sts. Peter and Paul in Weil am Rhein have been repeatedly targeted in acts of vandalism. The damage affected the whole church property, including seats torn from their mounting and candle wax spilled inside the church, and reports state that the constant repair and cleaning up of the church grounds is a considerable burden on the parish community, who have appealed to local residents for assistance.

Suspected Catapult Attacks Target Church in Sheerness

July 24, 2026, United Kingdom

A church congregation on the Isle of Sheppey has been forced to move Sunday services to a local café after repeated suspected catapult attacks threatened the church's safety. As a result of safety concerns due to incidents starting in February 2026, the church has made plans to replace the damaged glass windows with a "bullet proof" alternative, and has had to board up windows to protect its congregants. The church minister believes such acts of vandalism are not isolated to Sheerness, but point to a wider problem in the UK.

Desecration of Stone Crosses at Évreux Cemetery

July 24, 2026, France

On 24 July 2026, crosses belonging to several military gravestones were desecrated at Saint-Louis Cemetery in Évreux, prompting the opening of a police investigation.

Excrements Left Inside Church Forces Parish to Restrict Opening Hours

July 23, 2026, France

A parish church in Plan-de-la-Tour has been forced to reduce its opening hours following repeated acts of anti-social behaviour and degradation in and around the building. The incidents, which include animal defecation and littering, affected the church's ability to remain open to visitors and worshippers.

Church in Stoke-on-Trent damaged in suspected arson attack

July 23, 2026, United Kingdom

On 23 July 2026, police launched a suspected arson investigation into a large fire which severely damaged the former St Bernadette's church in Stoke-on-Trent. Fire investigators concluded that the blaze had been started deliberately, and police opened an investigation to identify those responsible.

Dog faeces placed in front of a church altar

July 22, 2026, Germany

Dog faeces were deliberately placed in front of the altar of St Giles Catholic Church in Wörth am Rhein after unknown perpetrators gained access to the church. In addition to causing minor damage inside the church, the act desecrated the sanctuary and caused distress to the parish.

Woman stabbed by knife attacker during Mass at an Irish Church

July 21, 2026, Ireland

On 21 July 2026, a woman was the victim of a vicious knife attack during prayer before Mass at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Tramore. While investigations are still ongoing, the reports state the assailant is known to police as having mental health issues. As the community deals with the shock of the incident, the Diocese has asked the people to pray for the victim's recovery.

Student in Hamm arrested for planning ISIS-inspired arson attack on Christian church

July 21, 2026, Germany

Reports published in July 2026 revealed that a 16-year-old from Hamm had been arrested in April on suspicion of planning an arson attack on an independent Christian church on behalf of the so-called Islamic State. According to the prosecution, the teenager had scouted the church as a target but was arrested before he could carry out the attack. The reported targeting of a Christian place of worship indicates a planned religiously motivated terrorist attack.

Fire set outside church of Saint-Éloi prompts police investigation

July 20, 2026, France

On 20 July 2026, a fire was reported at the Saint-Éloi Protestant Church in Rouen after a mattress placed against the building was set alight. Passers-by extinguished the flames before firefighters arrived, preventing the fire from spreading to the historic church. Police have opened an investigation into the incident as a suspected arson attempt directed at the church.

Anarchist threat discovered in Catholic Church

July 20, 2026, France

A threatening inscription was discovered in the Sancta Maria in Albis Church in Breil-sur-Roya which read "The only church that illuminates is the one that burns." The phrase, which is commonly used in anarchist circles, has been denounced by the town hall as an attack and a threat on a place of worship.

11 crucifixes taken from church

July 20, 2026, Italy

According to reports from 20 July 2026, Italian police have arrested a man and woman who broke down the door and smashed a window before removing 11 crucifixes from the building among other devotional items from the parish.

Statue of Mary removed from local shrine

July 19, 2026, Poland

On the night of 18 to 19 July 2026, unknown perpetrators vandalised a roadside shrine attached to the historic Józef Oak tree near Brzyno by smashing the glass and stealing the statue of the Virgin Mary. The attack damaged a place of Christian piety that had long been an important symbol of religious devotion for the local community.

Church in Abenheim vandalised and holy water font desecrated

July 19, 2026, Germany

On 19 July 2026, St Boniface Catholic Church in Abenheim was found to be vandalised by unknown perpetrators who urinated in the holy water font and damaged church furnishings. The vandalism resulted in the temporary closure of the church. According to parish representatives, the incident points to a wider problem of church vandalism in the area and increasing challenges to keep churches open.

Swiss Evangelical Leaders Challenge Geneva's Ban on Religious Symbols for Elected Representatives

July 17, 2026, Switzerland

Three Swiss evangelical leaders have filed a legal challenge against a constitutional amendment in the Canton of Geneva prohibiting elected representatives from wearing visible religious symbols while carrying out their official duties. The applicants argue that the measure violates freedom of religion and undermines democratic representation by requiring parliamentarians to conceal their religious identity.

Religious Statues Deliberately Damaged At Church in Deutschlandsberg

July 16, 2026, Austria

At the Parish Church of St Oswald in Deutschlandsberg, historic religious statues were found deliberately destroyed by unknown vandals. The vandalism caused extensive damage to religious heritage dating back around 200 years and deeply affected the local Christian community. The attack follows previous acts of vandalism targeting the church, including the insult "Shitty Church" carved into an interior wall of the church.