All cases
Desecration: Gave crosses turned upside down
March 2, 2025, GermanyUnknown perpetrators dug up seven grave crosses at the Erzhütten cemetery in Germany over the weekend and put them back in the ground upside down. According to police, at least two crosses and one grave were damaged.
Baptist church vandalised with Antifa
February 28, 2025, HungaryOn 28 February, the Baptist congregation in Székesfehérvár, Hungary, discovered that the facade of their church building had been vandalised with the slogan "God is dead". The graffiti also contained antifa symbols.
Riot in church in Neheim
February 28, 2025, GermanyAn unknown offender has vandalised the Catholic church of St John the Baptist in Neheim. The man destroyed a cross, broke off the head and arms of a figure of Jesus, knocked over candlesticks and tore and smeared tablecloths on the high altar. He also spilled liquids and scattered books on the floor.
Christian Midwife Student Suspended over Expressing Conscientious Objections
February 28, 2025, United KingdomSara Spencer, a Christian midwifery student in Scotland, has been suspended from her National Health Service placement for comments she made on a private Facebook forum explaining her conscientious objection to performing abortions. Despite being cleared of any wrongdoing, Spencer's professors at Edinburgh Napier University have continued to warn her against expressing "inappropriate" pro-life views.
Vandalism of Chapel in Olbia
February 26, 2025, ItalyOn 26 February, the parish priest of Sant'Ignazio da Laconi found the small church of San Vittore in Olbia vandalised. Unknown perpetrators had broken rosaries, altar candlesticks and several other sacred objects. The police are now investigating the incident.
Suspected Arson Attack on Church in Saumur
February 26, 2025, FranceOn 26 February, a fire destroyed the 17th century door of the church of Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers in Saumur (Maine-et-Loire, France). Around thirty firefighters and a dozen vehicles were mobilised to bring the fire under control. Although the cause of the fire is still under investigation, the authorities suspect arson and have launched an investigation.
Christian prayer leader first charged under Scotland's buffer zone law
February 24, 2025, United KingdomRose Docherty, a 74-year-old Christian and leader of the pro-life prayer group "40 Days for Life", has become the first person to be arrested under Scotland's new abortion 'buffer zone' law for holding a silent vigil near a Glasgow hospital. The law, which criminalises any attempt to 'influence' abortion decisions within 200 metres of a facility, raises fundamental rights concerns. Pro-life groups plan to hold upcoming prayer vigils only outside the buffer zones, but politicians are already pushing for further extensions of the zones.
Nottinghamshire village church severely vandalised
February 23, 2025, United KingdomThe church of St Mary and St Martin in Blyth was severely vandalised, with a stained glass window smashed, an effigy of a knight damaged, a knife plunged into the bell tower door and religious objects desecrated.
Roadside cross vandalised in Lublin
February 22, 2025, PolandA 48-year-old man has been arrested for vandalising a roadside cross in Jakubowice Konińskie (near Lublin). The suspect broke the cross and threw it under an oncoming vehicle, just before destroying the candles placed near the monument. The man has now been charged with destruction of public property and insulting religious feelings.
Catholic priest violently beaten in Auxerre
February 22, 2025, FranceOn 22 February, a Catholic priest was attacked by two people outside the church of Saint-Eusèbe. The assailants insulted the priest, knocked him to the ground and punched him several times in the face. The priest, who had bruising and oedema on his face, was taken to hospital in a state of shock. Police are searching for the suspects.
Santa Faz cross in Alicante vandalised again
February 20, 2025, SpainTwo years ago, on carnival night, the cross of the Holy Face, located in a public square near Alicante City Hall, was vandalised by unknown persons. The incident happened again on the same night, 20 February, and the cross was severely damaged. The Town Hall has now promised to install additional security measures to protect this public Christian symbol.
Cross broken: Church in West Keal vandalised
February 17, 2025, United KingdomSometime between 14 and 17 February, the Episcopal Church of St Helen in West Keal was robbed and vandalised by unknown offenders. The criminals broke a cross, burned signs, stole a tapestry and caused other damage. The crime has been reported to Lincolnshire Police, who are investigating.
Arson attack on church in Nenzing
February 13, 2025, AustriaOn the evening of 13 February, unknown perpetrators set fire to a pew in the parish church of St. Mauritius in Nenzing. The Nenzing volunteer fire brigade extinguished the fire and ventilated the church, preventing further damage. The police are now investigating and are asking for witnesses.
Vandalism and arson attack on church in Aichach
February 13, 2025, GermanyOn 13 February, unknown persons vandalised the Catholic church in Gallenbach, a district of Aichach, Bavaria, and set fire to several objects. Although the flames did not spread to the rest of the church, the damage amounted to several thousand euros. The church will remain closed for the next few days as police investigate the attack.
UK Court Backs Christian Teacher After Unfair Dismissal For Sharing Christian Views
February 12, 2025, United KingdomOn February 12, 2025, the UK Court of Appeal ruled in favor of Christian teacher Kristie Higgs, who was fired in 2019 for sharing her concerns about sex education policies and expressed her Christian beliefs about this topic on her private Facebook page. The court confirmed that traditional Christian beliefs on social issues are protected under the Equality Act. The decision marks a major victory for freedom of speech and religion in the UK.
"Your mere presence is causing people harassment"
February 10, 2025, United KingdomChristian charity volunteer Isabel Vaughan-Spruce has again been targeted by police for standing silently in a buffer zone. This time, police officers told her that her 'mere presence' was causing 'harassment' and therefore prohibited behaviour in the area. Buffer zone laws in the UK continue to allow serious attacks on basic human rights.
Nice Church Attacker Sentenced to Life Without Parole
February 10, 2025, FranceBrahim Aouissaoui, the terrorist who murdered three Christians in Nice’s Notre Dame Basilica in 2020, has been sentenced to life imprisonment without parole. The court confirmed his jihadist ideology and premeditated intent to kill 'infidels'.
Two churches in Wurzen attacked with arson
February 9, 2025, GermanyOn 9 February, two churches in Wurzen were set on fire by unknown perpetrators. Fortunately, in both cases police officers were able to extinguish the fires before any major damage was done. However, the total damage at both locations is estimated at around 2,000 euros. The police are now investigating the attacks.
Two churches in Hamburg attacked
February 8, 2025, GermanyOn the night of 7-8 February, unknown perpetrators attacked two churches in Hamburg, causing serious damage at both locations. Stones and pyrotechnics were used to vandalise the religious buildings. Police are now investigating whether the incidents are connected.
Arson and vandalism on Marigliano church
February 7, 2025, ItalyA 40-year-old man was arrested after a serious attack on a church in Marigliano on 7 February. The man set fire to the church door and destroyed several statues and furnishings in the churchyard. After a rapid investigation, police were able to identify and arrest the suspect.
Arson and vandalism at parish premises in Genoa
February 7, 2025, ItalyOn 7 February, the police and fire brigade were called to the parish centre next to the church of Santa Maria dei Servi in Genoa. The authorities found a piece of wooden furniture set on fire and several blasphemous phrases and swastikas written on the walls. The police are now investigating the attack.
Church organ vandalised twice in two months
February 6, 2025, GermanyAfter a first episode of vandalism of the organ of the Holy Cross Catholic Church in Bretten-Büchig in December 2024, a similar attack took place earlier this month. In both cases, an unknown perpetrator poured a large amount of liquid over the organ, causing around €6000 worth of damage. The church remained closed for several days after the incident.
Repeated vandalism of roadside chapel in Laudermark
February 6, 2025, NetherlandsOn 6 February, unknown offenders vandalised a roadside chapel in Laudermark with polyurethane foam, causing extensive damage. According to the local parish, this is the second time in a short period of time that this public Christian symbol has been vandalised.
French municipality faces legal battle over displaying nativity scene
February 5, 2025, FranceIn December 2024, the town of Beaucaire was ordered to remove its nativity scene from the town hall by an administrative court, claiming its display violated secularism laws. Despite the ruling, the mayor refused to comply, resulting in further legal action and the threat of escalating fines. This marks the latest in a series of legal battles over Christian symbols in Beaucaire, which have been ongoing since 2016.
Religious painting vandalised at cultural centre in Dydnia
February 3, 2025, PolandSometime between 31 January and 3 February, unknown offenders vandalised a historic painting depicting St Michael the Archangel, whose face was covered with yellow and dark brown paint. The painting was on display at the Municipal Cultural Centre in Dydnia.
Man sets fire to door of Milan church
February 2, 2025, ItalyOn the morning of 2 February, a man set fire to the door of the church of San Martino in Greco in Milan. A passer-by quickly noticed the fire and called the authorities, who quickly put out the threat. Police are now searching for the suspect.
UK imposes VAT on private education: Christian schools forced to close
February 1, 2025, United KingdomA UK policy change imposing VAT on private school fees came into force in January 2025, forcing schools to pay 20% of tuition fees to the Treasury. Many Christian schools, already operating on tight budgets, face closure or fee increases, reducing parental choice in education. Critics argue that the reform unlawfully discriminates against faith-based education and violates international rights protections.
Decapitated statue of Mary
January 30, 2025, GermanyUnknown perpetrators have damaged a statue of the Madonna in a chapel in Wasserburg am Inn in Upper Bavaria.
Christian Prayer App "Hallow" Threatened by EU Regulations
January 30, 2025, European Institutions (EU, ECHR, et.al.)The Christian prayer app "Hallow", which reached number one on Apple's App Store in 2024, is now struggling to operate in the EU. CEO Alex Jones has expressed concern that strict regulations are effectively shutting down religious apps, raising concerns about digital religious freedom.
Two arson attacks on church in Jerez
January 26, 2025, SpainOn the night of 25 January, an attempt to set fire to one of the entrances to the church of San Miguel in Jerez was quickly smothered by the local population. However, just a few hours later, on the morning of 26 January, another fire was set at another door, this time requiring the intervention of the fire brigade. The police are now investigating both incidents.
Polish Petition Aims to Ban Minors From Receiving Confession
January 24, 2025, PolandIn October 2024, actor and activist Rafał Betlejewski launched a petition to ban children and teenagers under 18 from receiving the sacrament of confession. After gathering just over 13,000 signatures, the proposal is now being debated in the lower house of the Polish parliament.
Vandals attack Neuenkirchen church during service and desecrate cemetery
January 24, 2025, GermanyAt around 4.30pm on 24 January 2025, unknown individuals threw two stones through a window of the St Laurentius church in Neuenkirchen during a service. The following day, parishioners discovered that 14 graves in the nearby cemetery had been desecrated. The perpetrators had knocked over grave lamps and bronze vases, and destroyed porcelain figurines and vases with their feet. The police are investigating both attacks on the St Laurentius parish. The damage is estimated at €2,000.
Smear on Christian politicians in Austria
January 24, 2025, AustriaIn Austria, an official report on 'right-wing extremism' has been heavily criticised for defaming Christian politicians and placing traditional Christian beliefs in the context of 'right-wing extremism'. The Christian politicians named in the report reacted with shock and indignation. One of them, Jan Ledóchowski, whose ancestors were murdered by the Nazis, pointed out the absurdity of associating Catholic positions with right-wing extremism. Christian politician Gudrun Kugler, who the report unfoundedly claims was elected by a 'right-wing milieu', called the report unscientific and trivialised genuine right-wing extremism.
Woman set fire to the Holy Scriptures
January 23, 2025, PolandOn 23 January, a 43-year-old woman set fire to a Bible in a church in Kępno and threw a vase and candles from the altar.
Another attack on a church in the Sardinia region
January 23, 2025, ItalyOn the night of 23 January, unknown assailants vandalised the church of San Francesco in Oristano. The Christian community in Sardinia has suffered numerous attacks on religious sites in recent weeks. The police are now investigating all the incidents.
Sacrilegious theft in Sarajevo
January 21, 2025, Bosnia and HerzegovinaOn 21 January, unknown assailants broke into the convent church of the Sisters of Charity of St Vinka in the centre of Sarajevo and stole the vessel monstrance the large consecrated host, scattering the other smaller ones in the sanctuary. Several other items were also stolen.
Facade of convent vandalised with pro-abortion tags
January 20, 2025, FranceOn 20 January, the façade of the Grande Bretèche convent, home to the Dominican Sisters of the Presentation, was vandalised with pro-abortion inscriptions in a repeat of a similar attack last year. This is the second year in a row that the convent has been vandalised after hosting a pro-life event.
Islamist Bomb threats to church in Palencia
January 18, 2025, SpainTwo Islamist bomb threats against a church via a Telegram group caused great concern and prompted the immediate deployment of security forces in the city of Palencia.
Swiss Federal Court Bans Subsidies for Catholic Girls' school
January 17, 2025, SwitzerlandThe Federal Court sitting in Lausanne has withdrawn from the Catholic girls' school Saint Katharina of Wil (Canton of Saint-Gall) the possibility of receiving public funds, considering that being Catholic and reserved for girls, it practices "discrimination".
School counsellor sacked for promoting Christian views on marriage
January 16, 2025, United KingdomGozen Soydag, who was sacked from a Catholic school in February 2023 for publicly promoting traditional Christian beliefs on marriage, has received news that the court has rejected all her claims. Ms Soydag will appeal the decision as she feels she is being discriminated against because of her faith.
"Low-status" prisoners in Belarus banned from religious practice
January 16, 2025, BelarusIn a growing assault on religious freedom, several prisoners in Belarus are being denied any contact with religious services or members of the clergy because they are considered 'low status'. The ban even prevents them from possessing religious literature or devotional objects.
Figure of Jesus vandalised and thrown in the garbage
January 15, 2025, PolandOn the night of 14-15 January, unknown offenders committed an act of vandalism in the cemetery of the Parish of the Nativity of St John the Baptist in Tychy-Cielmice, Poland. The oak cross was destroyed with an axe, and the figure of Jesus was removed from the cross, smashed and thrown into a rubbish bin. The police are now investigating.
UPDATE: £7,500 PROSECUTION COSTS FOR HOLDING BIBLE VERSE SIGN
January 15, 2025, United KingdomOn 15 January 2025, the Crown Court rejected Stephen Green's appeals and confirmed his guilty verdict. The Christian preacher will now have to pay more than £7,500 in fines and prosecution costs for silently holding a Bible verse.
Occult vandalism at Lyndhurst church
January 15, 2025, United KingdomOn 15 January, a severed deer head was found on the porch of St Michael and All Angels Church in Lyndhurst. A similar incident occurred at the same church four years ago.
Teacher Sacked for Christian Beliefs Appeals Tribunal Decision
January 14, 2025, United KingdomBen Dybowski, a teaching assistant in Wales, was sacked after expressing his Christian views during a school seminar on diversity. Although the Education Workforce Council found no wrongdoing, an employment tribunal rejected his claim of harassment. He is now appealing the decision, raising concerns about the treatment of Christian teachers in Europe.
Second attack on Rennes Basilica within days
January 13, 2025, FranceFollowing the destruction of a statue of the Virgin Mary a few days ago, unknown perpetrators have again vandalised the Saint-Aubin Basilica in Rennes. This time, a statue of the baby Jesus was found decapitated. The city of Rennes is facing a serious wave of hate crimes against Christians.
Nativity scene destroyed in Persico Dosimo
January 12, 2025, ItalyOn the night of 11 January, unknown perpetrators seriously damaged a nativity scene in the churchyard of the Dosimo parish church. Several figures were smashed to pieces, a gesture that caused great indignation among the local population.
Church vandalised and statue destroyed in Rennes Basilica
January 12, 2025, FranceUnknown perpetrators have destroyed a statue of Mary in the Saint-Aubin Basilica in Rennes. Attacks on religious symbols are a growing concern in the region.
Repeated vandalism of Salò nativity scene
January 9, 2025, ItalyUnknown persons have vandalised the nativity scene set up by the fire brigade for the local community. The vandals not only damaged the nativity scene, but also urinated on the scene and set off a firecracker in the middle of the hay.
Two arson attacks on Valledoria church in 4 days
January 8, 2025, ItalyThe Church of Christ the King in Valledoria has been attacked twice in a very short period of time. The first arson attack took place during the celebration of mass on 5 January, and the second only a few days later, on 8 January.
Unknown perpetrators vandalise religious figures
January 7, 2025, GermanyOn the afternoon of 7 January, unknown perpetrators broke into the church of St. Francis Hochdahl in Erkhart. A leg of a religious figure, one of the Three Magi, disappeared and the burglars knocked over several other figures. Police are now investigating and looking for suspects.
Priest receives letter threatening parishioners
January 6, 2025, ItalyIn early January, the priest of the San Giovanni Battista parish in Siniscola received a letter containing threats against two of his parishioners. The case is now being investigated by the police.
Debate over refusal of communion and religious autonomy rights
January 6, 2025, SpainRubén García de Andrés, mayor of Torrecaballeros, was denied communion by a local priest because of his homosexuality, which he denounced as homophobic. His political party is demanding an apology and threatening legal action. The Diocese of Segovia defended the priest, citing Canon 915, which allows for the denial of communion on moral grounds, and denied any accusations of homophobia. The case raised concerns about the involvement of secular groups in church affairs, which is seen as a potential threat to religious freedom.
Fire set to nativity scene in Ingolstadt
January 5, 2025, GermanyA nativity scene was burned and vandalised in the Catholic church of St Pius in Ingolstadt. The parish priest reported that "the stable was thrown over down and one figure was completely burnt".
Figure of the Infant Jesus stolen from nativity scene in Aprilia
January 4, 2025, ItalyOn 4 January, a figure of the Infant Jesus disappeared from the nativity scene set up by the Agroverde Neighbourhood Committee in a public park. "A gesture that deeply offends the sense of community and the faith of many people," said the committee and further stated: "It is an act of vandalism that demonstrates a total lack of respect for the traditions, symbols and religious feelings of many people."
Nativity scene in front of Roncoferraro church vandalised
December 31, 2024, ItalyOn the night of New Year's Eve, unknown people destroyed the nativity scene on the square of the Roncoferraro church. The vandals tore to pieces almost all of the particular figures depicting the nativity and scattered the fragments in the surrounding garden. This is not the first time that similar episodes have occurred.
Police prevents terrorist attack on Elche Basilica
December 31, 2024, SpainSpanish police have foiled a terrorist attack just before Christmas. Four suspects aged between 14 and 17 were arrested on 19 December during a raid in the city of Elche. The group is accused of planning an Islamist terrorist attack on a Christian church.
Sanctuary vandalised with fireworks in Ribordone
December 31, 2024, ItalyOn New Year's Eve, unknown vandals caused extensive damage to the exterior walls of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Loreto in Ribordone. Locals are calling for more security measures as this isolated church is frequently vandalised.
Church closed due to vandalism
December 30, 2024, GermanyThe town church in Lauterbach is closed to visitors due to vandalism. Two unidentified youths smashed two stained glass windows with lead frames. Several items have been stolen in recent incidents, including a Bible and an Easter candle.
Figures stolen and replace with caricatures
December 30, 2024, PolandIn the Strzelce district, an unknown person has stolen statues of saints from two roadside shrines and replaced them with strange caricatures. Police are investigating.
Two nativity scenes vandalised in Ostiano
December 30, 2024, ItalyDuring the night of 30 to 31 December, someone destroyed two nativity scenes in the town centre of Ostiano and in the churchyard. The statues of the infant Jesus, the sheep and Mary were overturned and the statue of Saint Joseph was destroyed.
Three suspects arrested after shooting at Istanbul church association
December 30, 2024, TurkeyThree suspects have been arrested following a shooting at the Association of Salvation Churches in Istanbul. On 30 December, three gunmen arriving in a commercial vehicle opened fire at the association's building in the Cekmekoy district on the Asian side of Istanbul.
Image of Infant Jesus destroyed in Valencia
December 30, 2024, SpainThe Nativity Scene of Cullera, in the Valencian Community, has been vandalised with the destruction of an image of the Infant Jesus.
Arson on previously attacked church in Regnano
December 29, 2024, ItalyOn 29 December, the back wall of the parish house in Regnano was set on fire. Only two weeks earlier, the door to the bell tower of the church had also been vandalised and destroyed.
Religious image attacked
December 28, 2024, SpainSomeone smashed the protective glass of the Cristo del Puente image in Ceuta with a rock in a niche in the church on 28 December, and the image had to be moved to another parish.
Statue of Infant Jesus stolen from the nativity scene
December 28, 2024, ItalyA figure of the Infant Jesus from the nativity scene on the steps of the church in Levico Terme has been stolen during the night during the night.
Man riots in church
December 28, 2024, GermanyIn Cologne-Ehrenfeld, a man caused extensive damage to St Joseph's Church, destroying nativity figures and throwing burning candles around the church.
Vandalism and fireworks set off in church
December 28, 2024, GermanyA church in Lilienthal, Germany, was vandalised on 28 December. The offenders entered the unlocked church building and set off fireworks, among other things. They also damaged several organ pipes.
Nativity scene in Roque-Gageac set on fire
December 28, 2024, FranceA nativity scene set up by the local council in the village of Dordogne burnt down on the night of Friday 27 to Saturday 28 December. Although investigations are still underway, the mayor strongly suspects that the fire was deliberately set.
Youths destroy vandalise church and destroy Christmas tree
December 27, 2024, United KingdomChristmas trees, flower arrangements and a tree to help people remember their loved ones were smashed by a group of teenage girls at St Andrew the Apostle Church in Holt, Norfolk, on 27 December. The church has to be closed except for services.
Cross in Gdańsk set on fire
December 27, 2024, PolandGdańsk police have arrested a 45-year-old man suspected of setting fire to a wooden cross. As a result of the incident, the painting of Mary hanging on the cross was burnt and the perpetrator also broke the fence surrounding the cross. The total damage was estimated at 10,000 zloty.
Theft of tabernacle
December 26, 2024, GermanyOn 26 December, the tabernacle was stolen from the church of St Joseph parish in Kollnau. The perpetrators, who are still unknown, stole the locked tabernacle from the choir of the church.
Tbilisi church pelted with eggs
December 26, 2024, OtherUnknown people threw eggs at the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, the second oldest in the country. The western facade and the door of the Anchiskhati Cathedral, were smeared with broken eggs.
Man enters church on Christmas Day shouting “Allah Akbar”
December 25, 2024, FranceOn Wednesday 25 December, just before 5pm, a man entered the church of Saint-Louis in Saint-Germain-en-Laye (Yvelines) shouting "Allah Akbar".
15-year-old allegedly planned attack on church
December 25, 2024, GermanyPolice in Brandenburg took a 15-year-old from Zossen into custody on Christmas Day. Security services believe he was planning an attack on a church in Berlin over the Christmas period. The young man was released from police custody due to a lack of evidence.
Repeated vandalism: Marian statue desecrated in Mrągowo
December 25, 2024, PolandThe desecration of the parish of St Raphael Kalinowski in Mrągowo took place on the night of 25-26 December. An unknown perpetrator entered the church premises and destroyed the statue of Mary in the church chapel. The situation was recorded by the parish camera.
Church soiled with urine and cigarette butts on Christmas Eve
December 24, 2024, ItalyOn the night of 24 December, in the small church of San Rocco in Malpaga di Orzinuovi, near Brescia, the floor and chairs were covered in cigarette butts and urine. Nothing was stolen.
Church wall damaged by explosives
December 24, 2024, ItalyOn Christmas Eve, 24 December, the church of Sant'Antonio Abate was the target of an act of vandalism. Unknown persons set off fireworks on the side of the sacred building, causing considerable damage. The explosion tore off part of the frame, and debris was found scattered on the ground.
Sacrilegious theft and desecration
December 22, 2024, ItalyOn December 22 thieves broke into the tabernacle of the church of Miglierina in Viareggio using a drill and a crowbar and stole the consecrated hosts, leaving the pyxes inside. Several liturgical objects and some personal belongings were also stolen. The parish priest does not exclude a Satanic motive.
Church in Waltrop repeatedly hit by vandalism
December 21, 2024, GermanySt Peter's Church in Waltrop has been plagued by vandalism: There have been repeated cases of damage, people urinating in the church, leaving faeces or breaking beer bottles. Not only are the church doors currently closed outside of service times, but the nativity scene has also been moved.
Theft of nativity scene figures
December 20, 2024, United KingdomOn 20 December, it was reported that all the figures - Mary, Joseph, animals and the Infant Jesus - were missing from the nativity scene next to the church in Tunbridge, Wales.
Destruction of the Passion Cross in Krosno
December 19, 2024, PolandIn the Sanctuary of St John Paul II in Krosno, the Passion Cross and the figure of Jesus Christ hanging from it were desecrated on 19 December. The vandalism was particularly brutal, and the figure was broken into many fragments.
14-year-olds arrested for vandalising cemetery
December 19, 2024, PolandBetween 9 and 19 December, a series of acts of vandalism took place at the Central Cemetery in Szczecin. The perpetrators damaged tombstones, demolished graves, spilled wax from lighted candles and smashed them against tombstones. Two 14-year-olds were arrested for desecration.
Cemetery in Migny vandalised with swastikas
December 19, 2024, FranceThe town hall of Migny filed a complaint after several swastika inscriptions were found on a monument in the local cemetery on 19 December. The police are now investigating this act of vandalism.
Metz Nativity Scene Vandalised: Statues of Mary and Joseph beheaded
December 17, 2024, FranceThe figures of Mary and Joseph have been beheaded in a vandalism attack on the nativity scene in front of the Metz train station, the city authorities announced on 17 December. According to the town hall, an investigation is underway to find the perpetrators. A complaint has been lodged.
Desecration of graves with satanic symbols: Ritual motives "not ruled out"
December 17, 2024, SpainIn Seville town of El Viso del Alcor, the desecration of four coffins in the municipal cemetery on December 17 is being investigated. Authorities and specialists do not rule out ritual motivations. In Spain, an increase in attacks on Christian cemeteries is reported for 2024.
Vandals damage church wall with fire
December 16, 2024, GermanyBetween 14 and 15 December, unknown persons set fire to the church behind the large chapel on Büscherweg, Kierspe, damaging the back wall of the church.
Vandalism: Withington church spray-painted
December 16, 2024, IrelandSt Peter's Church in Withington was vandalised on 16 December, with the door and interior sprayed with paint. Police officers described the damage as 'shocking and irreparable'.
Fire at Christian centre, suspected arson by left-wing extremists
December 15, 2024, GermanyAs reported on 15 December, a pile of rubbish and bulky waste caught fire at the back of a building housing the Bremen police and the local Free Church welfare office. Left-wing extremists claimed responsibility and expressed hostility towards the Pentecostal Church.
Ban on funeral processions in Manduria
December 15, 2024, ItalyThe mayor of Manduria, Gregorio Pecoraro, has approved an ordinance banning walking funeral processions. A local councillor is challenging the ban, saying it restricts religious freedom.
Nativity figurines disappeared
December 14, 2024, ItalyThe statues of Mary and the ox disappeared from the nativity scene in front of the church of San Michele Arcangelo and Santa Lucia in Cesa, a hamlet in the municipality of Marciano della Chiana, on December 14.
Desecration of a church with a satanic symbol
December 13, 2024, FranceThe church of Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption in Guercheville (Seine-et-Marne) was the target of vandalism on the night of 13 December. Parishioners in the village raised the alarm after discovering the symbol 666 with an "S" on the front door.
Pastor and Christian community offered protection by police
December 12, 2024, GermanyProtestant pastor Ralf Sedlak has been the target of several threats and attacks following a sermon criticising the Hamas attack on Israel in October. The police are now being called in to protect him and his family, as well as to provide security for church services as all members of the congregation face hostility.
Church walls defaced with graffiti
December 9, 2024, GermanyBetween December 6-9, unknown perpetrators defaced the facade of a facade of the Catholic community center St. Christophorus with graffiti. The white graffiti defaced both the north and west sides of the church building.
Figure stolen from nativity scene, damage caused
December 8, 2024, SpainSeven youths were reported in Santa Coloma for trying to steal the figure of the Virgin Mary from the municipal nativity scene at 4am on 8 December, causing damage. They fled after being surprised by the Town Hall guard and the night watchmen, but were identified a short time later in Sant Carles street.
Minors Devastate Church
December 7, 2024, GermanyAn 11-year-old and a 16-year-old caused a riot in a church in Bisingen in the Zollernalb district on 7 December, causing property damage of around 3,000 euros. They damaged a vase, antique candlesticks, plants and plant pots, and scattered books on the floor. Sheet music was scattered on the floor, the Advent wreath was knocked over and everything was lying around. The damage is estimated at 3000€, said a police spokesman.
Church walls and a statue of the Virgin Mary vandalised in Moissac
December 7, 2024, FranceOn the night of 7 January, unknown persons vandalised the walls of the Catholic church of La Mégère and a public statue of the Virgin Mary. The vandals sprayed several offensive inscriptions on both sites. The police are now investigating.
Church in Bordeaux Vandalised Once Again
December 3, 2024, FranceAs reported on December 3, the Saint-Éloi church in Bordeaux suffered significant damage after a burglary and vandalism estimated at 10,000 euros, with a safe broken and stained glass windows behind the high altar damaged. In June, the church was tagged during a feminist march in the Gironde.
Acid instead of wine in the chalice
December 1, 2024, ItalyThe Sunday mass in the church of Sant'Andrea on 1 December ended in hospital for a priest in the northern Italian community of Zignago - there was acid in the chalice instead of wine. The mass was interrupted and the congregation called the emergency services.
Vandalism of religious symbols in church
November 28, 2024, GermanyAs reported on 28 November, unknown persons threw the Easter candle against the wall of St Mary's Church in Waltrop, damaged altar objects, tore a prayer book and threw other objects around the church.