All cases

Continued Abuse to Grounds of St Peter and St. Paul Church

November 2, 2021, Germany

The grounds of the St. Peter and St. Paul Church in Medenbach were the sight of loud music and vandalizm on November 11th. This time, rubbish was strewn around which expressed a general lack of respect. The news report mentions there has been repeated vandalism to this place.

UPDATE: Ban on "Conversion Therapy" in UK "Could Lead to the Prosecution" of Pastors and Church Leaders

November 1, 2021, United Kingdom

The Welsh government has admitted that the ban on conversion therapy "could lead to the prosecution of religious leaders". The ban on conversion therapy was announced by the Queen in May this year and was welcomed by the Bench of Bishops in the Church in Wales. The document presented by the government leaves aside questions such as the possibility to attack religious freedom and claims that conversion therapies cause harm, although it gives "no evidence to justify the claim". Since then, Christian groups have raised concern that the ban could apply for private prayer and conversations, undermining religious freedom. The consultation by the Government will be open until 10. December 2021.

Anti-Christian Graffiti on Statue of Pope John Paul II in Lwówek Śląski

November 1, 2021, Poland

The monument to John Paul II, the Polish Pope, was painted with multiple degrading symbols on November 11th. The statue, which is located in Lwówek Śląski, had it eye lids painted, a tear below its eye drawn, and an inverted cross. For some reason, this crime was never reported so the police did not carry out any investigations for suspects.

Youth Smoke Shisha in Laichingen Church

November 1, 2021, Germany

Several young people turned the Albanskirche in Laichingen into a shisha bar on November 1st and then celebrated with pizza. This was not the first act of its kind in the church and the pastor, who has had enough, has had to close the church for everyone to prevent more property damage.

St Nicholas Church Vandalised on the Halloween Night

October 31, 2021, Germany

On the 31. October at night, the St. Nicholas Church in Immenstadt was damaged by graffiti. The unknown perpetrator(s) sprayed the words "Die Heiligen Geschwister Scholl" (The holy Scholl siblings) in black paint on the wall, causing damage of about 500 euros. The police are running an investigation. On the 31. October, there was increased vandalism in the whole region.

San Gottardo Church Vandalized Again on Halloween Night

October 31, 2021, Italy

The church of San Gottardo in Vittorio Venedeto has once again been targeted with spray cans. Located at the bottom of Mount Altare, the church has been vandalized numerous times with various inscriptions. This incident probably occurred on Halloween and was reported to the municipal administration.

Arson by Unknown Perpetrators in Church Premises

October 30, 2021, Italy

On the evening of 30. October, a fire broke out in the premises next to the church of Sant'Aniceto in Villar Perosa. Thanks to the Fire Brigade and volunteers, the fire was brought under control and no one was hurt. The parish priest, Don Orlando Aguilar Tobon, suspects that the fire was voluntary because the cleaning ladies noticed the smell of cigarettes and found a disordered room, later he was informed that a fire had broken out from a locked cabinet. A bottle of wine and two glasses were also found in the room.

Arson at Church in Castellon

October 29, 2021, Spain

The church of San Vicente Ferrer in Castellón was targeted by an arsonist on October 29th. The façade of the church was marred by a fire which was started by an old bed being left by the church and the set alight.

Repeated Acts of Vandalism at the Church in Château-Arnoux-Saint-Auban

October 29, 2021, France

For several months, the church of Jesus the Worker in Château-Arnoux-Saint-Auban was targeted by vile acts and thefts that left the church in a terrible state. This included the thefts of condolence booklets and urine or excrement left in the church. These incivilities have only multiplied, according to the priest, and this has emotionally harmed many people.

Pornographic Video Filmed Behind the Altar of a Church in Bree

October 29, 2021, Belgium

A video of a couple having sex behind the alter of the Sint-Michielskerk in Bree was shared on a number of social networks and led to a police investigation. The pair have apparently been identified but not officially confirmed. The police commented, "these are criminal offenses. It concerns public indecency and the distribution of pornographic images. We cannot communicate anything further."

Arson and Vandalism at Church in Germany

October 28, 2021, Germany

On 28. October at around 7.15 pm., witnesses found that there had been several damages to property in the church in Hellenthal. The organ and other objects were smeared with wax, and a burnt hole was found in the pew, among other things. The damage amounts to a few hundred euros. The damage to the property must have taken place between 10 am and 7 pm. The police opened an investigation.

Man Damaged Crucifix and Dismantled Church for "Religious Reasons"

October 28, 2021, Germany

At around 12.30 p.m. on 28. October, the police received a report of damage to property in the evangelical Frauenberg church in Sangerhäuser Straße, Nordhausen. A 25-year-old Afghan man had gone into the church, emptied it for "religious reasons" and broken a Crucifix. The police have filed a complaint of damage to property. The amount of damage is not yet known, but the damaged Crucifix had a high historical value to the community, which will be immediately restored.

Church Walls Vandalized with Graffiti in Leipzig

October 28, 2021, Germany

On the 28. October at night, vandals sprayed messages in black paint on the walls of a church in Stötteritz. Some of the tags were also against the police and the damage to property is estimated at around 1,000 euros. The police filed a report are investigating the incident.

Repeated Acts of Vandalism and Theft in the Catholic Church of Reilingen

October 28, 2021, Germany

The Catholic in Reillingen suffered of multiple cases of vandalism and also in the year before several thefts. A gilded consecrated cross, was stolen from a pedestal in front of a Virgin Mary statue in Reilingen. A year later, the cross which was from the St. Wendelin church, has been replaced. This theft was after multiple candles and candlesticks were stolen in the preceding months.

Christians Attacked and Insulted while protecting a St.John Paul II Monument

October 27, 2021, Poland

On the 27th October 2020, unidentified pro-abortion protesters attacked, with telescopic batons, people defending the monument of St. John Paul II in Wołomin from being devastated during the local Women’s Strike. As a result of the perpetrators’ actions, one person was injured and had to be taken to the hospital.

Statue of the Virgin Mary Desecrated with Feces in Damasławek

October 26, 2021, Poland

A statue of the Virgin Mary, located in an outdoor space belonging to the local church, was found with traces of excrement on the pedestal on which it stands. The parish priest Father Grzegorz Iwinński explained how this was the most severe attack the church had experienced. The perpetrator, who was caught on camera, faces up to two years in prison for offending religious freedoms.

France: Vandalism and Tags on Church Walls Related to a Report on Pedophilia

October 26, 2021, France

On October 26, graffitis were found on the walls of Saint Blandine Church in Lyon. The paintings were related to the CIASE report that contains the number of pedophilia cases that took place in France from 1950 to 2020. The first deputy of the 2nd arrondissement, Jean-Stephane Chaillet, strongly condemned the act on Twitter. The case was reported to the police. A precedent has been also reported in Nantes, where a day after the report was released, tags saying "church of rapists" were painted on the walls of a Catholic high school in downtown Nantes, Saint-Stanislas, and a nearby convent.

Stained Glass and Squared Timber Broken in the Church of Eibenstock

October 26, 2021, Germany

Two leaded glass windows and a three meter long squared timber were broken in the town church of Eibenstock. The windows were smashed with stones and the board of the congregation commented "we are simply horrified." The police investigated the incident.

Man Pours Fecal Matter over a Statue of the Virgin Mary

October 26, 2021, Poland

It has first been reported that a man had been vandalising a statue of the Virgin Mary by pouring fecal matter over it for several months, the most recent incident being in October 26. in 2021. The last incident was recorded by a security camera, which made it possible to identify the perpetrator. The 57-year-old man has received a one-year sentence of restriction of liberty and has been charged with the costs of the proceedings.

Jehovah’s Witnesses Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison in Russia

October 25, 2021, Russia

Rustam Diarov, 48, Yevgeniy Ivanov, 44, and Sergey Klikunov, 46, all Jehovah's Witnesses, were given a sentence of eight year in a Russian prison for "extremist" religious activity. Olga Ivanova, 38, Yevgeniy’s wife, was sentence to 42 months. These sentences are longer than for kidnapping or rape and mark an increased cruelty toward Jehovah's Witnesses in Russia. The sentences have been increasingly longer every year.

Church in Neuburg Vandalised with Graffiti

October 25, 2021, Germany

In Neuburg, the Holy Spirit Church on Spitalplatz was smeared with graffiti on the 25. October, as was reported by the police. Between the 25th and 26th, an unknown perpetrator sprayed grey graffiti on a wall in the area of the parish garden. This caused damage amounting to 1000 euros, the police are running an investigation.

Hymn Books from Northumberland Church Burned

October 24, 2021, United Kingdom

Several hymn books from the Holy Trinity Church in Embleton were stolen on the 24th of October and burned in a nearby cricket ground. Despite this event, Reverend Alison Hardy said that the church would stay open and added: "I'd ask people to appreciate churches for what they are and respect them as a community asset."

Three Attacks to the Reformed Church in Wildegg

October 23, 2021, Switzerland

The Reformed Church in Wildegg has experienced three attacks of vandalism, the last on was recorded on October 23rd. The incidents included the door set on fire, the organ damaged, and a lamp splintered. The church is now considering putting up surveillance cameras as a preventative measure.

Vandalism and Damage in the "Maria Geburt" Church

October 23, 2021, Germany

The candles in the "Maria Geburt" church in Elgendorf were damaged on October 10th. Candles in the alter room, which were either burning or unused, were broken and scattered all over the floor. Also, some candles were extinguished and a barrier rope destroyed. The Montabaur Police were looking for more information about this crime.

Attempted Arson and Vandalism at the Protestant Church in Holzkirchen

October 22, 2021, Germany

According to the police of Holzkirchen, between the 22. and 24. October, the Protestant Blessing Church in the Haidstraße was targeted for vandalism. Unknown perpetrators entered the church without any problem, as the place of worship is open every day. They destroyed the disinfectant provided and spread it on the floor of the entrance, it seems that they intended to light a fire because burn matches were found in the church, they also threw the pillows of the chairs around the church. Outside, police found a fireplace consisting of a vehicle tire and small wooden branches, although no fire was lit there.

Crosses Vandalised in the Cemetery of Bouguenais

October 22, 2021, France

Several crosses were broken in the cemetery of Bouguenais in the southwest of Nantes on October 22nd. About 15 graves were subjected to this vandalism and the broken parts were left on the ground. A complaint was filed and the fingerprints were taken.

Vandals Broke Into a Parish and left 2000 Euros worth of Damage

October 21, 2021, Germany

Unknown persons broke into a parish hall in Fuldatal-Simmershausen on the evening of the 21st of April. The burglars caused about 2,000 euros worth of damage to property as well as stealing a safe with cash. The Criminal Investigation Department in Kassel was investigating the case and looking for witnesses who could provide clues as to the identity of the perpetrators.

Mallorca: Another Cross Demolished in Spain

October 21, 2021, Spain

On 22 October, the town council of Son Servera (Mallorca), which is governed by Natalia Troya, demolished the Cross of the Fallen in the Plaza de la Tercera Edad. There there was no inscription of any kind and the Cross and it had been peacefully part of the town's monuments for decades. There is serious suspicion of illegality hanging over the decision, given that in June an application was registered with the Consell de Mallorca for the Cross to be cataloged as a listed monument, and this file is pending a report which was mandatory to take any action on the monument. The town council used the "Law of Historical Memory", which was passed by the PSOE in the times of President Zapatero.

St. Marien Church in Bochum-Langendreer Looted for the Third Time

October 21, 2021, Germany

In Bochum-Langendreer, criminals have been targeting churches for looting, the last time being on the night of 23. to 24. October. The Catholic community of St. Mary's in the former Langendreer station has been the target of three burglaries this year. In February, the parish office behind the church in Marien was devastated. This time the burglars had their sight set on the church. On the night of Wednesday to Thursday (20./21. October), they broke in through the side door and stole a projector, according to the congregation. And on the night of Saturday to Sunday (23./24. October) the main entrance was broken into and the offerings were stolen.

Break-in and Heavy Vandalism at Church in Heessen

October 21, 2021, Germany

On November 21st, unknown intruders broke into the St. Stephen's church in Heessen and severely vandalized it. They broke the tabernacle out of its concrete base and used two fire extinguishers to spray foam around all of the rooms, and they also stole some money. The property damage was extremely high and the church had to be closed the next day due to forensic investigations.

Statue of the Virgin Mary Vandalised and Replace by a Garden Gnomo

October 20, 2021, France

At the end of September, a statue of the Virgin Mary of the parish church, placed in a public road in the village of Gironde, was vandalized and destroyed. A garden gnome was placed in its place. A complaint was lodged by the church's maintenance lady. A man had found pieces of the bust in a vineyard, and two days later, the head of the Virgin was placed in front of a school gate. Although the events took place at the end of September, the story first got coverage a month later. The Mayor of Le Pian-sur-Garonne was also very upset by the action, the police are investigating.

Update! Man who Knocked Down a Public Cross Faces Up To 5 Years Prison

October 20, 2021, Poland

On 18. October, a man knocked down a cross on a public road with a saw, while filming himself. He then uploaded the video on the internet. A day later, he was identified. The 31-year-old man ran a website called "Action for the liquidation of road crosses all over Poland", in whose description he motivated the desire to remove them on the grounds that they "disfigure streets and pose a threat to road traffic. He also attacked many believers and the Church. For the destruction of the cross and offensive religious sentiments, the defendant could face up to five years in prison.

A 23-year-old Vandalised a Church in Vienna

October 19, 2021, Austria

On 19. October, A 23-year-old man vandalized the church Nepomuk-Kirche in Vienna by damaging the furniture in the church and throwing things to the ground. The young man from Bangladesh was arrested shortly after witnesses saw him and raised the alarm by calling the police at around 8:30 pm. The man told the police that the church would belong to him.

Hateful Messages on the Walls of a Catholic School in Poitiers

October 19, 2021, France

Threatening posters were put on the a Catholic school in Poitiers on October 19th. The messages accused the school of homophobia and transphobia and contained "hateful" remarks about the "burning" of the Christian Union of Poitiers. A far left motive was suspected for the attack but it was not known for sure.

Cross Removed from a Public Place in Vinalesa

October 19, 2021, Spain

The town council from Vinalesa, governed by the Javier Puchol (PSOE-left wing party), demolished a cross-monolith in that was put in place in memory of eight people who were killed in during the civil war in 1936 in the town. Among the eight, was a Catholic priest who was murdered for his beliefs and some from the town saw this demolition has disrespectful to the deceased.

Man Destroys a Cross with a Saw While Filming

October 18, 2021, Poland

A 31-year-old man was arrested after he filmed himself while sawing a cross in Zastalowski in Zielona Góra. The perpetrator posted the video of this vandalic act on the Internet. The police started the investigations to find the man, who was later successfully found and arrested. The local authorities have expressed their concern and surprise regarding this violent act. "This is the first time I have encountered such desecration in our city and I hope it will be the last time. We do not know the motives for the attack on the cross, but the incident itself is very heinous," said the Coalition Civica councilor. The secretary of the regional People's Party, Arkadiusz Dąbrowski also commented, "this is an unprecedented act of vandalism. We must respect religious symbols in our country.

Arson to Shrine Dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes in Scotland

October 18, 2021, United Kingdom

On October 17, the Carfin Grotto, Scotland's National Shrine to Our Lady of Lourdes, appeared partially burnt and destroyed as unknown perpetrators deliberately made a pile and set it on fire. As Police reported, "Enquiries are ongoing and at an early stage". Meanwhile, the community has launched a micro-funding campaign to help pay the damages due to the lack of economical means. However they are even more concerned about the rise of attacks against religious places, "we hope it is addressed at a national level", said the spokesman, John Mallon.

Over 200 Academics Called Out Bullying by Trans Activists

October 17, 2021, United Kingdom

On the 17th of October, over 200 hundred academics from different UK universities sent a letter to the Sunday Times expressing their concern about the bullying and suffering those who held the view that sex matters were receiving. The letter cited statistics from the organization "Sex Matters" and said that the majority of the discrimination came from "trans activist bullies". This type of abuse would be most acutely felt by religious persons and especially Christians who typically hold this view based off the Bible.

Church Break-In and Damage in Hemelingen

October 17, 2021, Germany

On the 17th of October, a criminal entered the church in Hemelingen through a window which they broke. The intruder then proceeded to search the rooms for goods and left after causing 1000 euros worth of damage. The police were investigating the incident.

Activists and Student Union Block Pro-life March With Anti-Christian Slogans and Insults

October 16, 2021, Austria

On the 16. October, around 2.500 people gathered for the "March for Life" in Vienna, a peaceful protest for the rights of the unborn and women. The participants faced opposition and insults from activists who planned to disrupt the march and create blockades, forcing them to change the route. The call against the pro-life march was made with polarizing language by different organizations, including the ÖH (Österreichische Hochschüler_innenschaft), which is the statutory representation of students' interests, Antifa, and other political groups. They organized a "March for Ass" and displayed anti-Christian slogans such as "abort fundamentalists" or "If Mary had aborted, we would have spared you". Jan Ledochowski, spokesperson for Christian Democracy filed a formal complaint.

Police Investigate Damage to St.Nicholas Church in Gaggenau

October 16, 2021, Germany

The side door of the St. Nicholas Church in Gaggenau had significant dents in its copper paneling that were made with large river pebbles. The police were investigating to see if the incident was an act of childish carelessness or deliberate vandalism. Relevant information was needed from witnesses.

Substantial Damage to Church Sacristy after Break-In

October 16, 2021, Germany

On the morning of the 16th of October, the sacristy of St. Johann Baptist church in Kirchplatz Street was broken into, which was noticed by the sexton of the parish in Refrath the following morning. After a closer examination of the crime scene, the police were able to determine that the adjacent scout house of the parish had also been broken into. It was not possible to say for sure whether anything had been stolen during this incident, but the property damage was substantial. Forensic evidence was collected and a criminal complaint was filed.

Christian MP David Amess Stabbed to Death

October 15, 2021, United Kingdom

Christian MP David Amess was attending his regular duties in his local circumscription in a Methodist Church in Essex on 15. October, when a 25 years-old British citizen of Somali origin stabbed him to death. Soon after, the killer Ali Harbi Ali was arrested. An Anti-terrorism unit is investigating the case, given that the perpetrator has been identified as a radicalized Islamist. This murder is a direct attack on the Christian beliefs that David Amess represented. Prime Minister Boris Johnson visited the Methodist Church where the incident happened, accompanied by the Home Secretary, Priti Patel, and leader of the Opposition, Keir Starmer. People have been gathering for candlelit vigils in Leigh-on-Sea and have held church services in his memory.

Church Crypt in Bromsgrove Forced Open

October 14, 2021, United Kingdom

The historic St. John's Church in Bromsgrove was targeted by unknown vandals on the 14th of October. The door of the crypt was forced open which caused hundreds of pounds of damage but luckily nothing was stolen.

Bell Stolen from Ostbevern Cemetery

October 13, 2021, Germany

During the weekend of the 9th and 10th of October, visitors of the Ostbevern Cemetery noticed that the bell standing in front of the burial ground was missing and alerted the town hall. It was unscrewed from its suspension and stolen by "brazen thieves". However, according to the Ostbevern municipality, the exact time at which the theft occurred is unknown. A criminal complaint was filed by the municipal administration and the police started an investigation, appealing to citizens to come forward in case they have any information.

Theft of Consecrated Hosts in Toledo Chapel

October 11, 2021, Spain

On October 11th, thieves took the tabernacle and consecrated hosts from the chapel of the Sisters of "Stella Matutina" in Illescas (Toledo). The desecration was reported and the Guardia Civil started an investigation into it.

Cross Destroyed in Peña Lemona

October 11, 2021, Spain

Youth from the left-wing Sortu party demolished the Francoist cross of Peña Lemona using jackhammers and pulleys to take down the monument. It stood an impressive 10 meters high and was put in place to commemorate Franco's troops in the Spanish Civil War. This incident marked another religious public symbol that was taken down in Spain.

Vandalized Chapel in St. Gallen Refuses to Close Doors

October 11, 2021, Switzerland

On the 11th of October, a chapel in Rorschacherberg, St. Gallen, was vandalized. The perpetrators took a wooden figure, a window, and a Holy water container, they also left the church in a bad state. This was not considered to be an isolated incident, as three days later there was another incident in a Church nearby. The churches nevertheless have clarified that they will remain open.

Thefts of Consecrated Hosts in the Days Leading Up to Halloween

October 10, 2021, Spain

According to a report by ABC, the theft of consecrated Hosts in Spain has been a yearly phenomenon that occurs with special emphasis in the days leading up to halloween. This year, on the 10th of October, the consecrated tabernacle which contains the hosts was stolen from the convent of the Sisters of Maria Stella Matutina in Toledo.

Around 7.000€ Stolen from a Benedictine Convent in Italy

October 9, 2021, Italy

The community of the Passionist Fathers of San Giovanni was having dinner when thieves broke into the convent and stole approximately 7,000 Euros, as it was reported on the 10th of October. The thieves must have known the monks' habits because the robbery was carried out without inconvenience. The money was the sum of donations, from tourists who regularly visit the monastery and from couples who get married at the abbey. As the theft became known it came as a surprise because some monks had chosen to remain silent. Police and military forces are still investigating.

Stained Glass from Evangelical Church Destroyed

October 9, 2021, Germany

The showcase of the Church of Brothers in Altenburg was destroyed by an intruder who was not identified. The police were investigating the crime and asked for witnesses to come forward to provide information about the property damage.

Church in Barbourne Broken into for the Second Time

October 8, 2021, United Kingdom

Staff discovered that St. George's Church in Barboune was broken into on October 8 and music equipment was stolen. A speaker and a small mixing desk were taken from a cupboard. The items are used for church events and worship that includes music. This is the second time this church has had a break-in, the first time was in August 2021. The police were contacted but no advancements on the investigation have been made.

OXFORD UNIVERSITY SPOKE OUT AGAINST VIOLENT REMOVAL OF PRO-LIFE STAND AT STUDENTS FAIR

October 7, 2021, United Kingdom

During the yearly Freshers' Fair at the Oxford University, the stand of the Pro-life group "Oxford Students For Life" (OSFL) was removed by other students and activists, who threw their material into a trash bin and completely removed it from the event. The students also refused to let them reinstall their stand and threatened them with tearing it down again. The group had already been criticized on the internet, as they posted some photos of their stand. The "Oxford Feminist Society" made a statement that the presence of a pro-life organization was a "threat to the safety, health, and autonomy of women", which was backed by the Students Union. The University of Oxford condemned the censorship and harassment of the pro-life group by stating that the university had a long history of protecting free speech.

Windows of Sankt Elisabeth Church in Bonn Broken

October 7, 2021, Germany

The windows of the Sankt Elisabeth Church in Bonn were the victim of a vandalistic attack, as they were damaged by unknown persons throwing stones at them. On October 7th, the windows were found broken and the sexton had to pick up the shattered glass.

Former Lutherchurch Desecrated and Looted

October 7, 2021, Germany

The former Lutherchurch, which is now used as a social center for volunteer work, was heavily vandalized during the first week of October. The damage was extensive, as many items were stolen, the infrastructure was damaged and perpetrators left human excrement on the Chapel. According to the statement on Facebook, it was not the first time they faced vandalism.

France: Psychologist Warns New Draft Law on "Conversion-Therapy" Would Breach Parental Rights

October 6, 2021, France

The French parliament has unanimously supported the proposed legislation to ban the so-called "conversion therapy". The law would have penalties from prison sentences up to 2 years, to fines that can reach 30,000€ for those to attempt to change someone's sexual orientation. The fines and prison sentences go even higher if the case involves a minor or vulnerable person. While the draft law claims to make illegal abusive practices that have - fortunately - never occurred in France and are already punishable by law, Christians and psychiatrists worry that the real aim of the law is to prohibit any reflection or questioning on the wishes expressed by young people who are insecure about their sexual identity. It would prohibit parents from objecting to the prescription of hormones for young people asking to make a transition or professionals who would recommend psychotherapy to help these people in their struggle. The draft is awaiting to be debated in the upper house of parliament.

Pro-life Activist Faced a Hate Campaign on Social Media

October 6, 2021, Spain

Elsa Almeda, an 18-year-old with ties to the VOX political party in Spain, received numerous attacks for expressing her pro-life views on a Spanish television program Tevecat that provides a space for young people with different ideologies to debate current topics. The discussion was around abortion which she likened to murder, an opinion that is based on her Christian values. For this, she received several threats and parts of her speech where quoted completely out of context with the intent of misrepresenting her views and to paint her in a bad light.

Repeated Vandalism and Objects Broken in Kempten Church

October 6, 2021, Germany

Apart from church services, the doors of The Assumption of the Virgin Mary church in Kempten have been forced to close. This decision was taken due to the repeated acts of vandalism and broken objects there. The head of the parish community says the scripture stands were overturned, sacrificial candles scattered across the church interior and damaged. The parish has filed a complaint with the police.

Church in Sankt Mang Closed due to Vandalism

October 6, 2021, Germany

The Maria Himmelfahrt church in Sankt Mang was forced to close because of repeated attacks by vandals. The damage included sacrificial candles destroyed and scattered, scripture stands overturned, and the thanksgiving altar looted. A complaint was filed in October.

Temple in Huelva Targeted with Paint Bomb

October 6, 2021, Spain

The façade of the Gerizim Evangelical Church in Huelva was splattered with red paint on October 6th. Although the police did not categorize it as a hate crime, the villains chose a religious building to commit the crime, and this should not be disregarded.

Display Bible Defaced at St. Ulrich Church

October 6, 2021, Germany

In October the news outlet Allgäuer-Zeitung reported cases of vandalism in the Kempten area. According to the parish priest Aleksander Gajewski, the Bible displayed in the church of St. Ulrich in East-Kempten was defaced with tags. In another Church, the vandalism damage was even greater.

Desecration of Graves at St.Mary's Church in Wexford

October 5, 2021, Ireland

Three headstones at the graveyard of St.Mary Church have been desecrated after they were vandalised with red graffitis on . The parish prieste, Cllr Michael Sheehan, has expressed his concern and has asked to "anyone who knows any information on this to make it known to the guards and that the full rigors of the law be applied.” He further stated: "I think it’s despicable that anyone would feel so low that they would have to attack a person’s grave. St Mary’s is the site of some really old graves, dating back from centuries gone by."

Nurse Suspended for Wearing a Cross-Necklace Challenges Case of Discrimination

October 5, 2021, United Kingdom

Mrs. Onuoha worked at Croydon University Hospital in London for many years as a nurse and has been wearing a golden cross necklace for 40 years without any problems. During the last two years, she started being pressured to remove her cross. Her necklace was considered "too visible" and posed a ‘risk of injury or infection’, despite the jewelry pieces of other medical staff not being criticized. After her repeated refusal, Mrs. Onuoha faced an investigation, was suspended, and relegated to work as a receptionist, and was told not to mention the reason for her relegation. With help of the Christian Legal Center (CLC), she is confronting the Hospital for harassment and discrimination.

Arson at St. Remy's Church

October 4, 2021, Belgium

In the night of 4 October, the church of Saint-Rémy in the centre of Ottignies fell victim to arson. A carpet, a chair and a panel were set on fire. The incident was quickly brought under control by alerted firefighters. Shortly after the incident, Ottigines police checked a laundromat located in the neighbourhood. There, an intoxicated suspect was identified and arrested. At the time of his arrest, the man born in 1987 and of no known address was in possession of a box of matches. The man, who already had a criminal record, will be brought before the criminal court as part of an accelerated procedure.

Church Bell Stolen from St Matthew's Church in Withernsea

October 4, 2021, United Kingdom

St. Matthew's parish community realized on Sunday 10th that the church bell was stolen after it failed to ring at a Sunday service. Apparently the bell was dropped from 9.1m above damaging the cellar doors. The damage is estimated at 8000€. Rev Martin Faulkner "would appreciate the return of its bell to the church grounds with no questions asked", he added that the bell "has a special place in the hearts of the Withernsea community", having been rung every week during Clap for Carers and to commemorate local people who died with Covid".

Church in Badia Vandalised Multiple Times

October 3, 2021, Italy

Over the course of a month the church in Badia has been vandalised in various ways: glasses were broken with stone, stones were pulled out of the walls and dog excrements smeared on the facade of the church. The last damage was perpetrated by smashing the windows with stones. Stones falling inside the church also caused damage to the wooden pews. Police are investigating.

Sacred Items Stolen from Parish Church in Saint-Léger

October 3, 2021, France

A complaint was filed by Father Nicola Berthier for the theft of objects of worship form the church in Saint-Léger-sous-Beuvray. On October 3rd, he found the sacristy door forced open and two chalices, a paten, and a ciborium all missing. These are all sacred objects used in mass and their theft is deeply hurtful for the church.

22-Year-Old Detained for Defacing Church

October 2, 2021, Poland

The news reported on 2nd of October that police officers from Wołów detained a 22-year-old man who damaged a cross and the facade of a church. The perpetrator painted symbols and messages insulting religious feelings on the walls and facade of the church. He is now facing a heavy prison sentence.

Cross of Church Cemetery in Tempelberg Smeared and Vandalised

October 2, 2021, Germany

A large cross that stands in front of the small cemetery at the church in Tempelberg was desecrated. Unknown perpetrators smeared and vandalised the cross. The incident occurred on Germany's Unity Day, which is annually celebrated on 2 October. Police are investigating.

Madonna delle Grazie Vandalised in Salza Irpina

October 2, 2021, Italy

The front door of a church in Salza Irpina was vandalised with graffiti on 2 October. The mayor of the city, Luigi Cella, has expressed his indignation on social media and hopes to find the perpetrator/s. "A deplorable gesture of vandalism was made against our church Maria Santissima delle Grazie".

Prayer in General Considered a Harmful Form of “Conversion Therapy” by Cooper Report

October 1, 2021, United Kingdom

The Cooper Report has been recently published by the Ban Conversion Therapy Legal Forum that was founded at the end of June. The Ban Conversion Therapy Legal Forum is a multidisciplinary group of parliamentarians, academics, barristers, legal professionals and survivors, whose aim is to ban any form of what is by them considered as conversion therapy. The Forum also considers any from of prayer as a harmful practice used for conversion therapy. They further state that an individual cannot consent to any form of conversion therapy. This implies that Christians or people in general, who seek help or guidance when they struggle with their gender identity, would not be allowed to get pastoral help that is not confirming their new gender identity, which the persons are maybe not even sure about yet. The Report further states that the human right of religious freedom is to be seen as inferior in this case.

UNIVERSITY OF EXETER CONDEMNS DEATH THREATS AGAINST STUDENTS OF PRO-LIFE ASSOCIATION

October 1, 2021, United Kingdom

The pro-life student "Life Society" association from the University of Exeter was the target of a hate campaign aimed to dissolve the group and its activity at the university. A petition among students and an open letter addressed to the university's Students Guild was sent to stop the pro-life group. Additionally, the group got harassed on social media. An online hate campaign was coordinated, to send them negative comments and even death threats, which were reported to the police. Fortunately, the University of Exeter defended the Pro-Life Association and supported their right to freedom of speech.

Study shows Christians are the Most Persecuted Religious Group for 12 Consecutive Years

September 30, 2021, United States

The Pew Research Center has published its last report on religious freedom. The findings show that Christians have been the most persecuted group worldwide for 12 consecutive years. The report analyses the situation, based on government policies and violent incidents in 198 different countries before the Covid-19 pandemic. The report concludes that Christians suffer different kinds of persecution in 153 countries, being the most persecuted group since 2007.

Catholic Monument Defaced During Religious Celebrations

September 30, 2021, Italy

In Desenzano di Albino, the bell tower of the shrine of the Madonna della Gamba was defaced with spray-painted tags on the 30th of September, which is during the days of the novena - a patronal feast celebration. The inscription advertised a heroin dealing point. on the Desenzano al Serio parish's social page, they posted a photo of the vandalism and wrote: "We have no words, only so much disappointment and bitterness, given also the festive period for our community. We invite those responsible, caught on camera and caught in the act, to come forward to clean up the damage, otherwise, we will turn the footage over to the authorities."

Twitter Bans Spanish NGO's Account After Post Critical of Euthanasia

September 30, 2021, Spain

On June 26, 2021, the "Christian Lawyers" account tweeted: “Euthanasia is being debated in Congress. The Federal Right to Die Association has been financing itself for years with inheritances and legacies of the sick people whom it assists in their last moments. Enough already. #righttolive #euthanasia”. For this post, the social network blocked their account on the 30th of September, claiming the message broke "the rules that prohibit publishing private information". The organization is challenging this censorship.

Priest Discovered Armed Man in Parisian Church

September 29, 2021, France

A Priest in the Saint-Luc church in the 19. district of Paris was approached by an agitated armed man on 29. August, asking for the time of mass and saying he wants to attend. After answering him, the priest noticed the man was carrying a revolver gun and alerted the police, who later took the suspect into custody near the church. The 28-year-old suspect was found with a loaded gun and had already been known for other offences. The police are investigating.

Update: Former Finnish MP Faces Trial for Quoting the Bible

September 29, 2021, Finland

Former MP Päivi Räsänen, physician and mother of five is awaiting her hearing for the 22nd of January, 2022. She is being investigated after the Finnish Prosecutor General filed criminal charges against her. One of the reasons is that she published a tweet quoting the Bible. Räsänen could faced a two-year prison sentence or a fine for the tweet.

New Law in Spain Plans to Publicly Publish List of Medical Staff Who Object Abortion

September 29, 2021, Spain

The Spanish Ministry of Equality is planning to create a registry of medical doctors, nurses, and staff who object abortion on the grounds of conscientious objection. The intended registry is part of a reform of the abortion law in Spain, passed in 2010. The argument for the proposal is to be able to guarantee the “right to terminate pregnancies” in public hospitals, as in many hospitals abortions are not performed, given the conscientious objections of the staff. Many bishops and experts are strongly criticizing this registry, as such a list can cause discrimination and harm freedom of expression, as well as freedom of conscience.

The Stations of the Cross in Wettemhausen Vandalized

September 28, 2021, Germany

The Stations of the Cross were severely vandalized on September 28th in Wettemhausen. Some of the figures were overturned while other had been dismembered. Glass beads had been demolished and the Burgau police were examining the scene for indications of who the perpetrators may have been.

Roof of Church in Frodsham Stolen

September 28, 2021, United Kingdom

A "substantial" part of St. Laurence's Church roof has been stolen by a group of thieves. Sergeant Simpson, from the Cheshire Police Rural Crime Team, has written on Facebook: "When someone steals from a listed or protected site, building or monument, its a crime against all of us. They are stealing our shared history", and he added, "the impact on the community can be devastating too, so please keep an eye on our history and report anything suspicious."

Vandals Smash Church Window in Horn-Bad Meinberg

September 27, 2021, Germany

Unknown perpetrators smashed the window of the local church in Horn-Bad Meinberg on 27 September. According to the police, the window is located directly above the church door. The damage amounts to around 2.000 Euros.

Güdesweiler Church Broken into and Raided

September 26, 2021, Germany

Unidentified thieves broke a window to get into the Güdesweiler church on March 26th. They took the money from a sacrificial candlestick box and also stole some of the sacrificial candles.

Update: University Revokes its Decision Regarding the Catholic Chaplain

September 25, 2021, United Kingdom

Fr Palmer had been declined as a University chaplain due to posts on his Twitter account expressing personal opinions and views regarding abortion and assisted suicide. After the "Free Speech Union" threatened the University for ignoring the 2010 Equality act, Nottingham University recognized Fr Palmer to become the Catholic priest of the University

Joan of Arc's "Heart" Stolen in Nimes

September 25, 2021, France

A 19-year-old boy discovered, after he came back from holidays, that a bronze heart containing a reliquary of Joan of Arc had been stolen.

Thieves Steal Sacred Objects of the Laurentius Chapel in Waltrop-Leveringhausen.

September 25, 2021, Germany

During the night of the 25th of September, a golden monstrance with the relic of Saint Laurence and a baroque cross were stolen from the altar of the St. Ludgerus parish. On Monday, the parish was surprised to find everything but the monstrance, returned in a bag in the neighboring garden. The intent of this was unknown but it was suggested that the thieves had a guilty conscience. Bernd Brinker, said of the monstrance which was never found, "The ideal value is great for the community, which has cherished and cared for the chapel for decades."

Evangelical Foster Agency Accused of "Discriminatory Policy" Against Homosexual Couples Lost Case

September 24, 2021, United Kingdom

The Christian Cornerstone (North East) Adoption and Fostering Agency has lost the case at the Court of Appeal. They were hoping to reverse a ruling that found the agency "discriminatory" for working only with heterosexual couples. Three Court of Appeal judges have found the Foster agency's policy discriminatory, as they find that the basis of the agency's religious beliefs is not enough to justify their policy of only recruiting heterosexual carers.

Flags of Evangelical Church in Nagold Repeatedly Vandalised

September 24, 2021, Germany

For the fourth time in a row this year, the flags decorating the evangelical church in Nagold have been torn or cut. Among the upset parishioners, an active woman in the community stated that the flags are not cheap and they are paid with everyone's donations.

Offering Box Stolen and Sacristy Door Broken in Avoscan Church

September 24, 2021, Italy

On September 24th, unknown thieves broke into the church in Avoscan through a broken window. Once inside, they took what was in the offering box, which wasn't much, and then broke the sacristy door to see it there was anything they could take from there. Parish administrator Don Luigino Canal said it was, "More moral than economic damage."

Right-Wing Extremists Storm Pastoral Office in Linz

September 23, 2021, Austria

Around 15 hooded men have stormed the office of the Diocese of Linz with leaflets, banners, and a megaphone. The pursuit was to protest against a memorial that will be placed in Linz's city cemetery for the refugees who died in the Mediterranean Sea. The group apparently belongs to the right-wing extremist "Identitäre" (Identitarians).

Oxford College Regrets Hosting a Christian Event

September 22, 2021, United Kingdom

The Wilberforce Academy (Christian seminar) has been holding its courses in different Oxford colleges for many years. But this year, the Worcester College, where the seminar was taking place, apologized for having hosted this event "that caused significant distress" as it was published in the student newspaper "The Tab".

Street Preachers Arrested after Preaching the Gospel and on Homosexuality

September 21, 2021, Ireland

Mr Williamson was preaching on the streets of Dundalk together with two other colleagues, when he was asked by police to stop. The reason was that he was critically preaching about gender ideology and homosexuality, the police considered the content to be a hate crime and that the preaching disrupted the public social order. Together with Robert Ervine and Sean Paul Tully, Ryan Williamson got arrested. The trial is expected on 13 October.

Cemetery Severly Vandalized in Rivière

September 21, 2021, France

The cemetery of Rivière was ransacked on September 21st but it was not know who did it. A municipal employee found: "Many vases ... thrown to the ground, breaking and cracking the tombstones in places. Flowers were dug up. Crosses were torn off and cut." The gendarmerie was informed of this hateful act.

Germany increasingly Denies Asylum to Christian Converts from Islam and Deports them To Muslim Countries where they Face Death

September 20, 2021, Germany

Open Doors, an international Christian organisation, which supports persecuted Christians worldwide, has published a report on the current situation of 5.207 Christian converts in Germany. The vast majority of them are denied asylum and many of them are threatened with deportation to conservative Muslim countries where conversion to another religion is considered a crime worthy of death.

Church in Sandhausen Vandalised

September 20, 2021, Germany

Unknown perpetrators have vandalized the church of the Holy Trinity and caused several damages: burning a sign, removing the Pascual Candle and damaging it, chairs and cushioins have burn holes, etc. Despite this event, the parish priest still wants to leave the church open for the people so that they can "recharge their batteries and strengthen their faith during this time". He also urged the people to protect the church "by visiting it and thus protect it from further damage". According to the police it seems that the perpetrators were not looking for money, "it was vandalism".

Painting Solen from Church in Zębocin was Later Found

September 20, 2021, Poland

A 16th century painting worth 100 zloty was stolen from the St Stanislaus church in Zębocin. The theft was immediately reported to the police who began to search for it. Much to the churches relief, the "Mother of God with Child" painting was found at an auction in Warsaw on September 20th.

Several Windows Smashed at Catholic Church in Villmar-Aumenau

September 20, 2021, Germany

Starting on September 19th and then continuing for about a week, unknown villains were smashing the windows on the Catholic Church in Villmar-Aumenau. A cleaning person discovered the vandalism and promptly informed the parish who, in term, told the police. An investigation was started and the damage amounts to around 1,000 EUR.

Arson at Church in Mantua

September 19, 2021, Italy

On September 19th, the statue of Madonna was scarred by arson in the Santa Caterina church in Mantua. The fire, which was started at the altar, burnt the tablecloth covering the alter and also damaged some sacred furnishings including the statue. Fortunately, the damage was not extensive, but the crime affected the religious community.

Surveillance Camera Caught Two Burglars inside St.Liborio's Church

September 19, 2021, Italy

Images from CCTV showed that a car was driving away from the church of San Liborio where religious objects and 5.000 Euros in cash, which was contained in a metal cupboard, were stolen. The two perpetrators, 37 and 46 years-old and with previous convictions, were identified after a quick investigation by the local police station

Offices of the Swiss Evangelical Alliance Vandalised by Radical LGBTQ+ Groups

September 18, 2021, Switzerland

In the run-up to the March for Life, three different pro-life Evangelical centres have been vandalized in two different cities, Zurich and Emmenbrücke (Lucerne). The perpetrators threw paint and vandalized the offices of the SEA. The attacks were claimed on an anarcho-autonomous pro-LGBTQ information platform. "We condemn this way of acting and reacting but we are trying to continue the dialogue in the public debate, without being intimidated," reacted Daniela Baumann, spokesperson for SEA, accompanied by Evangeliques.info.

Anti-Catholic Graffitis on the Walls of Santa Lucia Chapel

September 18, 2021, Spain

On the 18. September, it was reported that the chapel of Santa Lucia and the wall of the rectory of the Rianxeira parish of Asados were vandalised with graffiti and anti-Catholic slogans. The perpetrator or perpetrators of this aggression to the heritage used red paint to leave messages against the Church and the clergy printed on one of the side walls of the church and on the entrance to the rectory, like calling them a "catholic mafia".