All cases

Antique Windows Smashed in Neunkirchen and Church Vandalized

May 11, 2022, Germany

Between May 11th and 12th, intruders broke into the Neunkirchen church on Kirchstrasse by throwing stones through two of the valuable antique stained glass windows. Inside the church, they ransacked cupboards and storage rooms but failed to break open a locked safe. It seemed like they didn't take anything but significant property damage was caused that will cost around 10,000 to repair.

Church Window in Stipshausen Damaged

May 11, 2022, Germany

A window in the Catholic Church of Stipshausen was damaged by an unknown vandal on May 11th. Witnesses found a medium-sized hole, which was probably caused by an object in the framed glass. The police were looking for witnesses with more information.

Burglars Steal Sacred Objects from Bad Doberan Monastery

May 10, 2022, Germany

Thieves broke into the Bad Doberan Monastery on the 10th of May but have not been found. They ransacked the interior of the church and broke open a safe from which they took keys and an unspecified quantity of cash. In addition, they stole some sacred objects which were made of brass or gold and silver plated. The police launched an investigation but have not been able to track either the thieves or the stolen objects.

Arson and Desecration in Romsthal Church

May 10, 2022, Germany

On May 10th, a church on Kirchstrasse in Romsthal was the victim of an arson attempt. The criminals set fire to several parish letters under a stool and burned some prayer texts near the altar. In addition, they knocked over an offering box, and some candles, and spread the wax over the floor. The fire was out by the time it was discovered and the property damage was around 150 euros but could have been much more. The police were looking for witnesses.

Cross and Candlestick Stolen from Church in Addington

May 10, 2022, United Kingdom

A cross and candlestick were stolen from the medieval church of St. Mary in Addington on the 10th of May. Reverend Debbie Forman said that the items have "little intrinsic value" but the church is "not the same without them." The church remained open and the hope was that the thief, who was not known, would return them.

Church in Rotherham Trashed by Illegal Party

May 10, 2022, United Kingdom

On May 10th, vandals broke into the Rotherham Church and trashed the interior. They drank wine and left broken bottles everywhere as well as destroying the church-run nursery which is used to help single mothers with childcare. The incident forced the nursery to close for a week.

Bad Wörishofen Cementery Ransacked by Vandals

May 10, 2022, Germany

Unknown vandals have rioted in the cemetery of Bad Wörishof and knocked over a large gravestone. The cemetery caretaker, Frank Stehr, says that the cemetery is the target of thieves and vandals almost every day. He says flowers and grave arrangements or even gravestones are stolen regularly. "Again and again, people come to me and report that they have lost various such objects," he reports. Still, the last incident was unprecedented. "It was vandalism in its purest form," said Stehr.

Family Father Stabbed to Death in Marseille

May 10, 2022, France

On May 10. 2022, an army doctor was stabbed to death in front of his two children. The 40-year old man was quietly picking up his children from a catholic school in Marseilles, when he was attacked from behind by Mohammed L. (23). The suspect claims he committed this crime "in the name of God".

150 kg Bell Stolen from Baranow Church

May 9, 2022, Poland

A bronze bell, weighing 150 kg, was stolen from the Baranow Parish Church on May 9th. The bell has images of the Crucified Christ and Madonna and Child on it and was made in 1853. The parish priest notified the police and appealed to the villagers.

Aggravated Theft in Crotone

May 9, 2022, Italy

Two burglars entered a church in Crotone on May 9th and after removing the entire offering column, they took it outside, forced it open, and took the coins within. A passerby noticed the unusual activity and immediately notified the Carabinieri arrived on the scene with the State Police who caught the offenders. They were then charged with aggravated theft and taken to the Catanzaro prison.

Relic containing the blood of a Polish priest was stolen from a church

May 9, 2022, United Kingdom

The St. Nicholas Church in Boston was the victim of a burglary on the night between the 9th and 10th of May. One of the stolen items was the reliquary containing the blood of Jerzy Popieluszko, a Polish priest who was beatified by the Roman Catholic Church in 2009. The police are investigating.

Church in Lomellina Vandalized

May 8, 2022, Italy

On May 8th, vandals forced their way into the interior of the Santa Croce church in Lomellina. There, they damaged the the votive candle lighting system and ransacked the priest's office. No valuable appeared to be stolen but extent of the damage had not been properly assessed.

Destruction of Tombs and Crosses in Piekary Śląskie Cemetery

May 8, 2022, Poland

Around 30 graves were destroyed by unknown vandals in the St. Józef cemetery of Piekary Śląskie on May 8th. Tombstones were pushed over and crosses were broken in an act that showed complete disrespect for a place that is sacred to so many. The crime was investigated with the support of forensic technicians who were trying identify the villains.

Anglican Chapel Severly Vandalised and Mocked

May 8, 2022, United Kingdom

St. Mary's church near Saxton, Yorkshire, which is an important listed building, was vandalized by anonymous intruders on May 8th. A volunteer group that takes care of the chapel wrote on Facebook: "A sickening sight this morning...litter, smashed vases, glass everywhere, and worst of all the crosses broken too. To add insult to injury, a note of apology with a fake phone number," was also left there. The chapel stands in an isolated field and has often been a place of refuge.

Arson and Property Damage in Bobingen Church

May 8, 2022, Germany

Unknown people entered the Liebfrauen church in Bobingen and damaged several seat cushions and benches. On May 8th, they took the sacrificial candles that were in the church, and after lighting them, used them to burn holes in the furniture. An investigation was launched by the police and the damage was estimated at around 400 euros.

Theft and Vandalism in Ostellato Church

May 8, 2022, Italy

When the priests arrived at the Ostellato parish of "Santissimi Pietro e Paolo" on Sunday the 8th of May to prepare mass, they found that intruders had stolen the offerings and some golden objects after forcing their way through the back door during the night. The property damage was around 6,000 euros, which was not covered by insurance. The carabinieri started an investigation and hope to find the perpetrators.

116 Spiritual Sites Destroyed Since Russian Invasion of Ukraine

May 7, 2022, Ukraine

Between February 24th, when Russia first invaded Ukraine, and May 7th, there have been 116 spiritually significant buildings destroyed. 91 of these buildings were Orthodox churches while the rest, were Mosques, Synagogues, Catholic and Protestant churches, and buildings of religious organizations. Most of these ruined sites were in the regions of Donetsk, Kyiv, and Kharkiv. The war in Ukraine has caused a divide, especially in the Christian Orthodox Church which has led Russia to ban the Ukraine Orthodox Church and Ukraine to attempt a similar ban on the Russian Orthodox Church.

Two Holy Water Fonts Stolen from Different Cemeteries

May 7, 2022, Germany

On the 7th of May, two holy water fonts were stolen. One was stolen from the cemetery in Hittisau and the other was from the cemetery in Egg-Großdorf. It was not known who did it but witnesses were being asked to provide more information.

Churchyard in Ruvo di Puglia Vandalized

May 6, 2022, Italy

The churchyard of the San Rocco church in Ruvo di Puglia, was vandalized on May 6th by unknown perpetrators. Diesel was sprinkled around which caused damage to the sidewalk and floor. Municipal councilor Mariatiziana Rugliani thought the cameras may be able to help identify who did it. He also said of the incident: "An ignoble act, a meaningless disfigurement to a sacred place and to those who lovingly guard it."

Vandalism to Evangelical Church in Vöcklabruck

May 6, 2022, Austria

The evangelical church in Vöcklabruck, Austria, was vandalized on Friday the 6th of May. Three lights on the pathway outside the church were kicked over, and notices, brochures, leaflets, and prayer books were scattered all over the inside of the church. The microphones were damaged and the offering box was broken open from which money was then stolen. The amount of damage was not entirely clear but the police were investigating.

Man Arrested for Stealing Sacred Vessels from Nicosia Chapel

May 6, 2022, Cyprus

A 36-year-old man was arrested on the 6th of May on suspicion of stealing sacred vessels from a schoolyard chapel in Nicosia, Cyprus. Sometime between April 15th and May 3rd, the chapel was broken into and the sacred items were taken. Those investigating the crime found the man.

Window in Schlierstadt Church Smashed

May 6, 2022, Germany

A window of the Catholic church "Sankt Gangolf" in Schlierstadt, was smashed with a stone between May 2nd and 6th. The church was vandalized twice last year but this time, the property damage was around 1000 euros. The police were looking for more information about the perpetrator.

Parental Consent Not Needed for Children Under 16 Years Old to Take Puberty Blockers

May 6, 2022, United Kingdom

On the 6th of May, the Supreme Court of the UK declined to take the Bell v Tavistock case, regarding puberty blockers for teenagers under 16 years old, which means the ruling by the Court of Appeals will currently stand. After the High Court ruled that 13-year-olds were not old enough and needed parental consent to begin hormone blockers; Tavistock appealed in June of 2021 and the Court of Appeals ruled that it was not the High Court's decision to make. Instead, they ruled that parental consent was unnecessary and that clinicians could decide it with their patients. This is a significant concern for Christian parents who would disagree with such treatment.

Anti-Christian and Nazi Tags on Parish Church in Mautern

May 6, 2022, Austria

The outer walls of the parish church in Mautern were sprayed with Nazi symbols on May 6th. Once the police had the relevant details, they were able to identify the perpetrators who were brothers aged 21 and 27 from the Leoben district. The property damage was significant. One graffiti reads "F** Jesus".

Bishop's Car in Kaluga Vandalized

May 6, 2022, Russia

On the night of May 6th, the car of Albert Ratkin, bishop of the Glorification Church in Kaluga, was painted with the "pro-Russian war" letters Z and V, and polyurethane was put in the exhaust pipe and doors. The vandalism was done because the Bishop had a YouTube channel, called "View from Heaven", on which he had posted videos against the war. He said: “I am not speaking with criticism, I am offering some solutions. Not everyone likes it, you see.”

Satanist Profanation of Cementery in Chișinău

May 6, 2022, Moldova

On May 6, 20 crosses and 70 funeral wreaths were set on fire at the St. Lazarus Cemetery in Chișinău, Moldova. Law enforcement officials found evidence of a satanic"ritual" at the site. The following May 13, a 35-year-old man was arrested for the theft of an electric bicycle in the capital - he was linked to these acts of desecration and indicted. He faces up to four years in prison and a fine of over 3,000 euros.

Offering Box in Rain Church Destroyed

May 5, 2022, Germany

On May 6th, a thief broke into the parish church in Rain and stole 100 euros from the offering box there. In the process, the intruder broke open the historic offering box from 1721 with a tool and caused damage that will take around 1000 euros to repair. It was not known who did it but the police in Rain were started an investigation and were looking for more information.

European Parliament Adopts "Hostile" Report on Persecution of Religious Minorities

May 4, 2022, Belgium

A report titled "Persecution of minorities on the grounds of belief or religion," was adopted by the European Parliament in Brussels on May 4th. It has since been called “openly hostile towards religion” by human rights experts since it in places points to religion as a threat and a driver of humanitarian crises. It also failed to mention the persecution of Christians in the Middle East and Africa, but states that "sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), including abortion, are being banned in the name of religion." Although the report had some positive points it did not always refer to religion favorably.

Attempted Arson in Hüttersdorf Church

May 4, 2022, Germany

An unidentified arsonist tried to ignite the doors of a church on Berliner Straße in Hüttersdorf but failed. On May 4th, a witness saw from her place a lighted candle next to the wooden door of the church but before it could cause significant damage, it tipped over and went out. The Lebach Police were looking for people who could provide more information about the incident.

Teenage Girls Vandalize Völklingen Church

May 2, 2022, Germany

In the morning of May 2nd, two 11 year old girls threw candles and song books on the ground in the St. Eligius church in Völklingen, Saarland, and smeared a banana on the wall. They returned in the afternoon and knocked over some displays and commemorative candles. They left before the police arrived but the officers found them at a nearby supermarket; at which point, they were handed over to their mother after some strict words.

Fascist Symbols Painted on Church in Petrinja

May 2, 2022, Croatia

The church of St. Spiridon the Wonderworker in Petrinja was targeted with Ustasha symbols on May 2nd. This graffiti has fascist implications and shows opposition to pluralistic societies. The police were investigating the incident in hopes of finding the perpetrators and stopping further hate crimes in the future.

Sacred Pictures of Saints in Milazzo Ruined with Knife

May 1, 2022, Italy

Pictures in the Madonna del Lume church of Milazzo were ruined by an unknown individual who cut them with a sharp object on the 1st of May. It was a series of ten prints including pictures of the Martyrdom of St. Sebastian, the statue of St. Rita, and one of Madonna del Carmelo. The pictures were slashed through the middle and the mayor of the city said of the act: "This gesture was made by people who disgust me."

Several Thefts of Sacred Objects in Tuscany

May 1, 2022, Italy

In the last weeks of April, there were several thefts of sacred objects from churches in Tuscany. The carabinieri in Florence identified a Romanian individual who was behind most of the crimes as after his home was searched, a number of these items were found including paintings and statues. The police were investigating the crimes to find a possible accomplice.

Extreme leftist Mob Attacks Parishioners and Church in Angers

May 1, 2022, France

On May 1st during a trade union demonstration, a group of leftist activists - also identified as Antifa - attacked parishioners in front of the Notre-Dame des Victoires church in Angers. The group went by the name of "the Angevin Anti-Fascist Network (RAAF)." The parishioners were attending the 11-hour Mass, while others had positioned themselves in front of the church to prevent attacks. The mob still threw paint on the building and squashed eggs on the ground. They shouted "homophobic slogans" and later returned with a banner directed at Catholics that read, "We are here to challenge those who are dedicated to deifying themselves." The police had to intervene to stop further violence.

Burglary at Church in Hamm

May 1, 2022, Germany

Between May 1st and 2nd, burglars broke into the St. Mary's Church in Hamm and stole around 100 euros from the donation box. They forcefully entered through a window and once inside, searched the sacristy and then looked through cupboards which they had violently opened. The property damage was around 500 euros and the police, who were investigating the crime, needed more information.

Property Damage to Church in Dieburg

May 1, 2022, Germany

Unknown people forcefully entered the Dieburg Church on Forsthausstrasse, who were possibly looking for something to steal. Although nothing was taken, the damage inflicted on the church was around 1000 euros as they also tried to break open a door inside the church. The incident was reported to the police.

Martin Luther Bust Destroyed at Höchen Church

April 30, 2022, Germany

A bust of Martin Luther, in front of a church in Höchen, was entirely demolished by an unknown vandal on April 30th. The police were looking for witnesses.

Spanish "TikToker" Attacked on Social Media for Being Catholic

April 30, 2022, Spain

Ignacio “Nacho” Gil Conesa, a well-known Spanish "tikToker", has been attacked by other influencers for being Catholic. He goes by the name Nachter, and a few months before May 1st, he devoted his time solely to making humorous videos about typical things that happen in the house. In an interview with the Spanish newspaper El Mundo, he said "there are other influencers who have attacked me for being catholic," a situation he described as "ridiculous."

Vandals Looted and Damaged to Church in Leipzig

April 30, 2022, Germany

Unknown intruders broke into a church in Leipzig on April 30th and roughly searched through drawers, and cupboards, causing damage to the door of one dresser. The property damage was around 500 euros and they also stole a large amount of money. An investigation of the incident was launched by the police.

Property Damage and Attempted Theft in Pleyben Church

April 30, 2022, France

On April 30th, the volunteers of the Saint-Germain Church in Pleyben, were shocked to find significant amounts of property damage. The front door was damaged and judging by the broken display cases, an attempt was made to steal the religious objects. They did not know who did it.

Hands Stolen from Angel Sculpture in Bielefeld Church

April 30, 2022, Germany

The hands from the Annunciation Angel sculpture in the Nicolai Church of Bielefeld were stolen sometime between April 30th and May 3rd. The wooden hands were not firmly secured, as they could be easily removed for transport. The community leadership asked for the thief to anonymously return them to the church.

Historic Church Stained-Glass Window Damaged with Stone

April 30, 2022, Germany

The outer protective pane of a historically significant stained glass window of the Evangelical Church of Peace in Manching, was broken with a stone that was thrown at it. The windows were made by Arno Bromberger, who taught at the Academy of Arts in Munich and is famous for his stained glass church windows. The crime happened on April 30th but it was not known who did it.

Graffiti on Historical Church in Barcelona

April 29, 2022, Spain

The heritage church of Santa Maria del Pi, in the Barri Gòtic of Barcelona, had a large amount of graffiti painted on its façade on April 29th. As well as defacing the church, the graffiti also damaged a medieval shield as it may be difficult to remove the black and pink paint. This marked an increased amount of vandalism in the area.

Vandalism and Arson at St. Nicholas Church

April 29, 2022, United Kingdom

The St. Nicholas Church in Swallow was targeted by vandalism on April 29th. Unknown perpetrators, possibly youth, took two picnic benches from the church to a park, set fire to one, and painted the other with obscene language and initials. The church was quite disappointed by the act especially since it took time to repair the damage.

Theft from Statues in Ischitella Church

April 29, 2022, Italy

Thieves stole jeweled necklaces from four statues in the church of Sant ' Eustachio Martire in Ischitella, on of them being the statue of Madonna del Carmine. Although the value of the jewels was not particularly high, the sacrilege, shocked the entire religious community.

Arson attack at Dinslaken Church

April 29, 2022, Germany

Unknown arsonists set the Heilig-Geist-Church in Dinslaken Hiesfeld on fire on April 29th. The property damage was not too extensive but the shock of such a hateful attack was great.

Statue of Virgin Stolen from Pau Church

April 29, 2022, France

A statue of the Virgin Mary was stolen from the Saint-Martin church in Pau on April 29th. People saw the man walking through the streets with the 1.5-meter statue and quickly alerted the police who then arrested him. Father Jean-Jacques Dufau said: “She was perched on one foot, on the right side of the church as you entered. I don't know how [the thief] did it."

Tags and Graffiti on Church in Piozzo

April 28, 2022, Italy

On the night of April 28th, a sentence was written in red paint on the Parish Church of Santo Stefano in Piozzo. It read: "The Nazis create poverty to take away freedom." The perpetrator(s) remain(s) unknown.

Glindenberg Church Devastated by Vandals

April 28, 2022, Germany

The St. Nikolai Church of Glindenberg was devastated on April 28th and had to be closed as a result. The inside of the church was devastated: the altar cross was torn off as well hymn books were left in the streets with their pages torn out. The police were looking for the perpetrators.

Satanic Graffiti and Desecration in Graz Church

April 28, 2022, Austria

Satanic graffiti appeared in the St. Vincent church in Graz on the 28th of April. The word Satan, upside-down crosses, and the Antichrist number 666 were painted with red spray paint on the walls and altar of the church. The vandals also sprayed an angel's face red and burnt a bible. The Priest, Wolfgang Pucher commented, "It's just unbelievable."

Jesus and Saint Statues Broken and Chapel Vandalized

April 28, 2022, Poland

A chapel near the village of Pokrzywna was the victim of a vandalistic attack that left a statue of Christ ruined. In the past years, this statue has been targeted, but on the 28th of April, both its legs were broken off just below the knee. A statue of Mother Biska was also torn out and thrown into a stream and a small piggy bank was stolen. The crime was reported to the police but due to the absence of security cameras, the perpetrators may be difficult to identify.

Ireland: Couple to go to Jail for Attending Mass During Lockdown

April 28, 2022, Ireland

Jim Ryan (64), and his wife Ann (59), were both fined €300 for travelling 70km to a Mass on Easter Sunday when there was a 5km limit for non essential travel during lockdown. They have since appealed their sentence but have also said they will go to jail rather then pay. Jim told the Sunday World "I have no intention of paying them a fine for me going to Mass - for doing what I have done my whole life."

Valuable Items Stolen from Church in Villach

April 28, 2022, Austria

During the night of May 28th, unknown perpetrators entered the Heiligenkreuzkirche in Villach and stole several items. They took gold-plated candlesticks, the quantity of which was not yet known, as well as a gold-plated lamp. An investigation was started and the amount of damage was still being quantified.

Man Steals from Three Churches in Wasilków and Zabłudów

April 27, 2022, Poland

The police received several reports in the last weeks of April, of thefts from churches in Wasilków and Zabłudów. In the incidents, the perpetrator had pulled the piggy bank off off the wall of one church and and in the other one, he broke the door off the money box and took around 4000 PLN. He then tried again in the church of Sokólski but the police caught the 37 year old who could be facing up to 10 years in prison.

Church in Zweibruecken Defaced with Obscene Tags

April 27, 2022, Germany

A 22-year-old man graffitied the facade of the Alexander Church in Zweibruecken on April 27th with obscene symbols. He tried to escape but the police were quickly alerted to the act, which happened around 19:30 and the man was arrested. He will have to pay around $500 for this crime.

Windows of Church in Albersdorf Broken

April 27, 2022, Germany

On April 27th, it was discovered that three of the windows on the Remigius Church in Albersdorf were damaged by thrown stones. Two had holes in them and one was cracked with the damage amounting to around 3,000 euros. There were no leads to the perpetrators and the police were looking for witnesses.

Scottish Ministers Criticized for Seeking Dialogue Between Pro-life and Pro-Choice Groups

April 27, 2022, United Kingdom

Scottish ministers said they plan to explore options of mediation with pro-life activists regarding "buffer zones" around abortion clinics. According to minutes from an abortion "buffer zone" meeting in February, the Centre for Good Relations asked for engagement “with all interested parties, not just those who are directly involved with the conflict itself." The ministers were criticized for their plan which aims to understand “the issues and perspective from all sides."

Christian Asylum Seeker Wins on European Court of Human Rights

April 26, 2022, Switzerland

In 2018, a Pakistani national who had converted from Islam to Christianity requested asylum in Switzerland but was rejected by the authorities. Despite them recognizing his conversion, The Federal Administrative Court rejected the request; however, upon taking the case, the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) ruled in favor of the applicant. They held that articles 2 and 3 of the ECHR would be violated should he be sent back to Pakistan.

1500 Euro Worth Destruction and Vandalism in Attendorn Cathedral

April 26, 2022, Germany

The police were called to investigate a crime in the St. John the Baptist church in Attendorn on April 26th. The church said that the destruction was done to candlesticks, the Agatha altar, a holy water font, parts of a bench, and a disinfectant dispenser. Books and writings were also thrown around. The damage, around 1,500 euros, was thought to have been done by a slim young man, with dark hair, between the ages of 15 and 20.

Man Urinates on Church Trani

April 26, 2022, Italy

A man was seen on video, on the 26th of April, urinating in the churchyard of Sant'Agostino in Trani. Judging by the stench, others have done the same thing which eventually causes lasting damage to the walls that then have to be repaired. This man obviously had little respect for this sacred sight.

Church Windows in Newtown Smashed

April 25, 2022, United Kingdom

The windows of the St. David's Church in Newtown were smashed by vandals on April 25th. It was not known who did the act and someone who was closely affiliated with the church said it was "absolutely disgusting to see yet again," which implies that vandalism similar to this has already occurred.

Theft and Repeated Vandalism at Grumo Nevano Church

April 25, 2022, Italy

A church in Gruma Nevano, dedicated to Madonna del Buon Consiglio, was vandalized on April 25th. Smaller acts of vandalism had been seen for weeks, but this time the lockers were found empty, the walls were painted, and the crucifix was on the floor. The carabinieri investigated the incident.

Teenagers Vandalize Crosses in Novara School

April 25, 2022, Italy

During the weekend of the 25th of April, minors broke into a gymnasium in Novara to destroy several crosses and write satanic and blasphemous thing on the walls. The then posted their actions on social media. The culprits have been identified and although some who are 14 years old cannot be charged, their parents can be made to pay the damages. The act also showed a worrying lack of respect for religious symbols by people at such a young age.

Churches Property in Lingen Damaged

April 24, 2022, Germany

A wooden box outside the Christ-König-Kirche on Bernhard-Lohmann-Strasse in Lingen, was damaged by unknown perpetrators, who, according to the police, were trying to gain access to the metal cassette within. Nothing was stolen but the property damage amounted to around 500 euros.

Arson to Church in Rheinberg with Box Full of Candles

April 24, 2022, Germany

In the afternoon, on 24 April, a 62-year-old man visited the church of St. Peter on Kirchplatz in the city centre. When he entered the church, he smelled something burning and saw a burning box of Easter lights on a table. Quick-witted, he brought the box and the table to the front of the church and extinguished the fire with sparkling water. He then informed the police. The police found more burning tea lights in a large package underneath the candle holder and also extinguished the flames.

Maria Hilf Chapel in Piekary Śląskie Destroyed

April 23, 2022, Poland

The Maria Hilf chapel in Piekary Śląskie, was vandalized by a number of youth on April 23rd after they had a party in which alcohol was illegally consumed. They destroyed the surveillance cameras, but not before their faces were caught on camera, and then proceeded to tear tiles off the roof. Using the footage, the police managed to identify the youth who were questioned.

Flag Ripped Down from Church in Bellshill

April 23, 2022, United Kingdom

A Union Jack, put up to celebrate the Queens Platinum Jubilee, was torn down from the St. Andrew's Free Church in Bellshill. Reverend Jason Lingiah, has labelled the attack an "anti-Protestant sectarian hate crime." The flag was thrown near the wall and left, while the pole was bent.

Insults and Vandalism in Magherafelt Church

April 23, 2022, United Kingdom

Three teenagers entered the Magherafelt Catholic church on the 23rd of April and, after verbally insulting the priest, damaged several objects. Officers then arrested three suspects aged 11, 13, and 15, for a number of charges including criminal damage, as they smashed a vase, threw the Bible and other holy books around, and damaged a microphone. They appeared in court, for what the police called a hate crime, and two of them were banned from entering the Magherafelt area while the third still awaits trial.

Catholic Church in Vincenz-Zahn-Weg Broken Into

April 23, 2022, Germany

The Catholic church in Vincenz-Zahn-Weg was broken into on the 23rd of April by an unknown person. The amount of money taken was not known but a large amount of property damage was done. The police investigated the incident and asked for witnesses to come forward.

£20,000 Theft from Church in Cambridgeshire

April 23, 2022, United Kingdom

Two large bass instruments and a euphonium were stolen from the St. Peters Church in Cambridgeshire on April 23rd. The instruments are worth around £20,000 so it was a significant loss for the church especially since it was not covered by insurance. The Cambridgeshire Constabulary were investigating the crime and needed more information.

Spanish Council of the Judiciary: Proposed "Trans Law" Would Violate Human Rights

April 22, 2022, Spain

The Spanish General Council of the Judiciary's (CGPJ), warned that the LGBTQ+ draft law proposed by the government would violate the rights of women, parents, and religious persons. The law seeks to allow minors to change their sex after the age of 12 without submitting a medical or psychological report and after the age of 16, parental consent would not be needed. Christian parents would not be able to raise their children in line with their beliefs and women's spaces and women's sports could be jeopardized.

Muslims Group Attacks Coptic Christians in Turin

April 21, 2022, Italy

As it was reported on the 21. April, two Coptic Christians, who were smoking in the square in Turin, were approached by a Muslim group who told them it was Ramadan and they should not be smoking. The two men, who were wearing Christian crosses, explained their faith and that they were not Muslim, so this rule did not apply to them. The Muslim group then proceeded to attack the two with kicks and punches but left before the police arrived.

Goblets Stolen from Church in Florence

April 21, 2022, Italy

A 66 year old native of Sicily was arrested for stealing two golden goblets form a Florentine church in via di Caciolle. The police were alerted to the theft and managed to recover all the stolen goods as well as catch the man. Thankfully, the pyxes, which are used to hold the consecrated hosts, did not sustain any damage.

Window Broken and Grass Burned in Mannheim-Käfertal Church

April 21, 2022, Germany

Unknown vandals smashed the side window of the church in Mannheim-Käfertal and lit a fire behind the church which burned a 1.5-meter patch of grass. The police started an investigation into the incident and were looking for witnesses.

Burger King, UBER and Hera foods Disrespect Catholic Symbols in Advert

April 19, 2022, Spain

Spanish Catholics started a petition to boycott Burger King for mocking the Eucharist in an ad campaign during the Holy Week. Billboards included the words "take and eat of it all" which were spoken by Jesus during the last supper added to "which has no meat", to advertise their veggie burger. Burger King has since apologized and said they did not mean to offend anyone and immediately began to withdraw the profanation. But two other firms, UBER and HEURA Foods, also mocked religious sentiments by launching a campaign with the picture of a nun eating a hamburger and saying "This Good Friday, eat meat".

Vandalism and Theft in Grosseto Cathedral

April 19, 2022, Italy

The Grosseto Cathedral was raided by a masked man with a hat and gloves who fled with several items. On April 19th, he entered the Cathedral and took a brass candlestick from the altar, and then smashed the glass of the shrine that holds the ex-votos that people offer to Madonna with an awl. Some policemen, who were nearby, ran after him so he dropped the candlestick but held on to the votive offerings of devotional value.

Russian Orthodox Church in Laa an der Thaya Vandalized

April 19, 2022, Austria

A Russian Orthodox Church in Laa an der Thaya was graffitied with the tags "Putin Stop" and "No! War" on the 19th of April. This appeared on the entrance pillars to the church which is no place to express political feelings. The Russian Embassy called it a "cowardly action" of "particularly cynical contempt" and said, "We are outraged to the depths of our souls by an act of vandalism in relation to the Orthodox Church."

Picture of Santa Rita Burned by Teenagers in Alassio

April 18, 2022, Italy

Two young boys entered the church in Alassio and started a fire in the votive candle box on April 18th. They also burned a picture of Sant Rita and the parish priest who intervened, was at risk of getting burnt.

Statue of Christ Smashed in San Salvo

April 18, 2022, Italy

A Statue of Christ in the church of Addolorata in San Salvo, was thrown to the ground and smashed on April 18th. The author of this act of vandalism appeared to use an object to break the statue into tiny pieces. The parish lodged a complaint.

Church Door Graffitied Among other incidents of Vandalism

April 18, 2022, Italy

On Easter Monday, the door of the Saints Philip and James Church was smeared with inscriptions. but the author is unknown. Mayor, Daniele Biada, put forth a social complaint due to the increased amount of attacks of this nature.

Teenagers Vandalise St. Helen's Church in Cliffe

April 18, 2022, United Kingdom

Teenager, thought to be between 11 and 12 years old, broke 7 stained glass windows in St. Helen's church in Cliffe and damaged several roof tiles around the 18 of April. The cost of the damage was extensive and could be in the thousands since the kind of roof tile used was particularly expensive. The children's parents said the actions were "inexcusable" and some even made them apologize to the churchwarden.

Church Near Dieppe Closed after Repeated Acts of Vandalism

April 17, 2022, France

The church in Arques la Bataille, near Dieppe in the Seine Maritime region, which is open during the day, was closed during the Easter school holidays after two vandalistic incidents, in which young people scattered and lighted candles in the church and climbed up the rostrum, then threw music scores and songbooks from up there. It will still be decided when the church will b opened again.

Brass Crosses and other Items Stolen From Wleń Cemetery

April 16, 2022, Poland

Police were informed of the theft of a brass cross from the cemetery of Wleń on the 16th of April. Upon investigation, they found that surrounding graves were also missing letters, crosses, and other elements. They began an investigation and were looking for witnesses.

Drunken Men Ruin Church Service in Kłodzko

April 16, 2022, Poland

Two drunken men entered a church service in Kłodzko and are now facing five years in prison for offending religious feelings. They threw a cross to the ground, tore a stoup off the wall, and pointed their middle fingers at the priest. The shocked worshipers quickly notified the police who detained the men and found them to be intoxicate.

Children: Insults and Destruction in Potenza Church

April 16, 2022, Italy

Three children entered the church of San Michelle on the eve of Easter and while shouting curese, destroyed the brazier intended for the religious service the next day. President of the Basilicata Region, Vito Bardi, addressed the several acts of vandalizm to the historic city center of which this was included. He said, "It is within the family environment that the first and basic rules of civil coexistence are learned, whose value system based on respect, education and responsibility contributes to forming the person."

Man Disrupts Easter Church Service in Athens

April 16, 2022, Greece

On Saturday the 16th of April, a man entered an Easter church service in the Church of St Panteleimon and shouted Arabic phrases into a microphone. Video footage showed the priest trying to calm the congregation and the offender was later arrested by the police in Athens.

Swastika Tagged on Façade of Evangelical Church

April 16, 2022, France

On April 16th, it was discovered that the façade of an Evangelical church in Reims was painted with a swastika and the word "HITLER" in orange spray paint. Pastor Philippe Rosa filed a complaint but was not sure of the reason for the tags. He said: "The prefecture had warned us ... against possible incivility and actions against the churches during this Easter period. Bad luck it fell on us."

Theft of Hosts at Church in Via Monte Massico

April 15, 2022, Italy

On April 15th, a 27-year-old broke into the parish of Santa Maria Assunta in Via Monte Massico with the intent of stealing a gold-coloured metal host holder. He was unsuccessful since the parish priest called the carabinieri who blocked the man and retrieved the item.

Theft of Sacred Object in Montesacro Church

April 15, 2022, Italy

A 27-year-old man was arrested by the Carabinieri for stealing a gold-coloured host holder from a church in the Montesacro district. The theft happened shortly before the Stations of the Cross on Good Friday.

Repeated Vandalism to Hartlepool Church

April 15, 2022, United Kingdom

Over four consecutive nights, ending on April 15th, vandals have visited the St Patrick’s Church in Hartlepool and caused thousand of pounds of damage. They broke around a dozen stained glass windows and left the inside fo the church covered with masonry ruble.

Statue of Mary Destroyed in Krosno

April 15, 2022, Poland

A figure of Mary was torn of its pedestal and destroyed at an intersection in the district of Krosno on April 16th. The statue dates back to 1959 and is in the Municipal Heritage Register but it was not known who completed the act.

Tabernacle Door Stolen in Schiavonia

April 15, 2022, Italy

On Good Friday, someone broke into the church of Schiavonia and stole the wooden door off the tabernacle in the altar of San Gaetano. The door was made between 1700 and 1800 and of cultural heritage. The church was greatly disappointed by this sacrilegious theft.

Valuable Relics Stolen from Church During Holy Week

April 15, 2022, Germany

During the Holy Week, anonymous intruders entered Neukirchen beim Heiligen Blut church and broke the glass on a case that contained some relics. They then took a cloth with brooches that contained bones from the saints as well as an angel sculpture from the high alter. The police were looking for witnesses and described the relics as having "inestimable immaterial value."

Crucifix Stolen from San Francesco Church

April 15, 2022, Italy

It was discovered on April 20th that the crucifix from the chapel of Sant'Antonio in San Francesco was missing. Upon further investigation, it was realized that the brass item, which is about 70 cm tall, must have been stolen as it could not be found. The parish priest Fr. Gabriele Monnanni lodged a complaint.

Hateful Anti-Christian Tags Found on Church in Foix

April 15, 2022, France

On April 15th, hateful inscriptions were painted on the Saint-Volusien Church in Foix. Phrases such as, "A good church is a church on fire," could be seen. Father Edouard de Laportalière said about the author who was not yet identified, "I recognised this writing already affixed to buildings in the parish that incited people not to believe in the Church. I invite this person to come and meet me, so that we can talk rather than write it on the church because it costs money to erase these messages." The Father said this was the third time the church has been targeted.

Way of the Cross Devastated in Jerzmanowice

April 15, 2022, Poland

The Way of the Cross on Mount Kalwaria in Jerzmanowice was completely destroyed by unknown persons on April 16th. The larger crosses were cut down with a saw. Their supporting ropes were cut while the smaller ones were smashed with an ax. The head and feet of the Mother of God figure were broken and statues of saints were destroyed. This was only part of the damage which the mayor, Tomasz Gwizdała, described as a profanation.

Windows in Shrewsbury Church Smashed During Service

April 15, 2022, United Kingdom

During an evensong service in the Shrewsbury church of St. Chad's, vandals smashed the stained glass widows of the church causing £8,000 in damage, and endangered those inside. The incident happened on the 15th of May at a church which often holds large events. Church warden Joanna Hepper said: "This was extremely upsetting for the congregation and could have caused injury."

Artifact Stolen from Church Restoration Sight in Fiuggi

April 14, 2022, Italy

While the Collegiate Church of San Pietro was being repaired, a marked truss, that was intended for a museum, was found to be missing. Stills from a webcam were being viewed and Felice D'Amico who was in charge of the work, said they had many clues. The faithful were quite dismayed by this gesture.

Statue of Virgin Mary Beheaded and Head Stolen in Badajoz

April 14, 2022, Spain

In Badajoz, municipality of Los Santos de Maimona, thieves cut the head off the Virgin saint in a sanctuary and took it along with her crown. This occurred halfway through the Holy Week and the Guardia Civil and the Police were investigating the "serious act." The chapel was forced to close until the necessary repairs and investigations had been done.

Offensive Graffiti Appeared on Sant Cugat Monastery

April 14, 2022, Spain

The Police were investigating the offensive words written on the church of Sant Cugat del Vallès on April 14th. Images showed two men who had written the words "F*** Moses" in Spanish on the wall of the historic building. Work had begun to remove the deeply offensive comments but the police were still uncertain of who committed the act.