All cases
Nottingham University Refuses to Instal Catholic Priest as new Chaplain because of His Catholic Views
August 27, 2021, United KingdomNottingham University confirmed on 25 August, that they had declined to install Father David Palmer, a priest of the Personal Ordinariate of Our lady of Walsingham, because of "the manner" he commented on his social media site, a university spokesperson said. Palmer was supposed to become the chaplain of both Nottingham University and Nottingham Trent University. While the latter instaled him the former invited Father Palmer to an interview in which he defended his posts about assisted suicide and abortion to go against the Catholic belief. After Bishop Patrick McKinney declined to propose another priest the University accepted to allow Father Palmer to celebrate mass as a "guest Priest".
Church Vandalised and Set on Fire in Behren-lès-Forbach
August 27, 2021, FranceOn 27 August unknown perpetrators set fire to the protestant church in Behren-lès-Forbach. The fire was started with rubbish and sacred objects found inside the church. Although the fire brigade managed to intervene quickly and got the fire under control promptly, it caused extensive damage, especially in the church's basement. The parish filed a complaint with the local police, who are currently investigating and looking for the perpetrators. Fortunately, no people were harmed, as the fire started outside of church service hours. Behrens Minister of Interior, Gérald Darmanin, as well as parishioners, condemned the incident.
Vandals Damaged Two Statues of the Redeemer in Bari
August 27, 2021, ItalyBetween the 26. and 27. August, the two statues in front of the Redentore Church in the Liberta district of Bari were damaged by unknown vandals. The statue of Mary took the most damage. After inspecting the case, the authorities decided to position the security cameras to cover the area. Now, in the public churchyard, the entrance will now also be only allowed with the specific ordinance.
Statues Vandalised outside Church in Bari
August 27, 2021, ItalyIn the evening of August 27th, one of the two statues outside the Church of the Redeemer was damaged in a vandalistic attack. Various leaders have decided to take action to prevent such acts in the future such as the repositioning of cameras, the banning of scooters in the area, and the placement of bollards.
Harvard University Elects Atheist as President of Chaplains
August 27, 2021, United StatesThe new unanimously elected president of the Harvard's organisation of Chaplains, Greg Epstein, is an atheist and humanist. He is also the author of a book called "Good Without God: What Billion Nonreligious People Do Believe" and he has served as a humanist Chaplain since 2005. Epstein says that he doesn't look towards God for answers, instead to personal relationships, sharing the idea that the value of religion relies on their strong community rather than the spiritual connection to God. Evangelical Chaplain Pete Williamson, who voted for Epstein, points out that even if the new president is not aiming to promote Atheism and promotes interfaith cooperation, the media has used a divisive tone that triggered outrage and worry among Christians. Bishop Robert Barron thinks differently as he says: “If a professed atheist counts as a chaplain — which is to say, a leader of religious services in a chapel — then ‘religion’ has quite obviously come to mean nothing at all.”
Doctor David Mackereth Appeals Court Decision
August 26, 2021, United KingdomIn 2018 Christian A&E doctor David Mackereth was fired from his position because of his deeply held belief that God created humankind male and female. An employment tribunal consequently ruled that Davids belief is not 'worthy of respect in a democratic society' and that the Christian belief is 'incompatible with human dignity'. Supported by the Christian Legal Centre Dr David Mackereth is now appealing the ruling, which legally states that Christians could be discriminated against, as their belief is not protected by the Equality Act. The first hearing is expected to start this autumn, probably in October.
Theft of Sacrilegious Objects in San Felice Church
August 26, 2021, ItalyUnknown perpetrators stole offerings and gold objects such as rings and a golden necklace from the San Felice di Tenna parish church in Tramonti. The incident is said to have happened sometime overnight from 25 to 26 August. The culprits must have known that parish priest Father Justin Nnamdi Emeziem left the town to attend a summer camp. Apart from the stolen offerings and a broken offertory box, the military and the police found a damaged statue of the Virgin Mary and gold objects belonging to the statue missing. Police in cooperation with the military is investigating the incident, which was caught by nearby surveillance cameras. An exact amount of the stolen goods has yet to be determined.
Desecration of Graveyard in Zielona Gora
August 26, 2021, PolandA cemetery in Zielona Gora has been desecrated by unknown perpetrators. The destroyed graves belonged to the family of Mariusz Michalski and his wife Małgorzata. They reported the incident to the local police on 22 August. Police found the gravestone overturned broken in four and scattered. As they haven't been to the cemetery for almost a month they do not know when it happened, but the family asked the locals for help. This is not the first case of vandalism in the Zielona Góra cemetery. It keeps happening over and over again, police are currently looking into CCTV while awaiting useful information from the public
Churchdoor in Germany Damaged by Unknown Perpetrator
August 26, 2021, GermanyUnknown perpetrators damaged the door of the Church of Merkenbach between the 26 to 28 of August. These persons caused a dent in the copper fitting on the door, the cost of the damage is undefined. The police have filed the case and they are looking to identify the perpetrators.
Anarchist and Disrespectful Tags on St.Elisabeth's Church Front Door
August 26, 2021, GermanyThe Catholic Church of St. Elisabeth on the Lammerberg appeared with graffiti on the front door. During the night of August 26, unknown people sprayed "Too loud" on the relief of St. Elisabeth and "Much too loud" on the two bronze doors using blue and green paint. The church caretaker, Gerhard Spiegler, was able to remove the anarchy sign "A" in a circle, which the vandals left on the glass notice box. On the north portal, however, a specialist is needed.
Multiple Thefts from Cemetery in Vivonne
August 25, 2021, FranceThe municipality of Vivonne has now recruited a guard for their new local cemetery as it had been subjected to various acts of theft and vandalism. The latest incident happened on 25 August where an unknown perpetrator stole flowers from various graves. As the police were informed they asked the public to put GPS chips in their flower pots, as this had helped to capture a flower thieve in a prior case. According to Vivonne's major the public is traumatized by these repeated acts of disrespect to the dead.
Catholic Television Channel Slammed for Airing Pro-Life Film
August 25, 2021, FranceFrench TV channel C8 aired the American film "Unplanned" on 16 August. After airing the fact-base-movie members of the public, as well as high ranking members of the Government, called the movie a "despicable anti-abortion propaganda tool". C8, which is owned by Catholic French billionaire Vincent Bolloré, is now accused of "obstruction to abortion". Politician Élisabeth Moreno is now aiming to legally prosecute the broadcasting service.
Government Protects Collective Worship in British Schools
August 25, 2021, United KingdomUK's Minister for the School System, Baroness Berridge, took a clear position regarding collective worship in state-funded schools in England and Wales. Her statement came as a response to the National Secular Society (NSS), who asked the Government in a letter to repeal the law regarding the daily act of collective worship in schools earlier this year. In their statement, they asked to replace collective worship with secular worship, Berridge referred in her statement to the School Standards and Framework Act from 1998, which declares that state-funded schools in England and Wales must conduct acts of collective worship "wholly or mainly of a broadly Christian character". Nick Gibb, the Minister for School Standards stated in March that "the department would remind schools of their duties if needed".
Church and Organ Vandalised in Beaucamps-le-Vieux
August 23, 2021, FranceUnknown perpetrators ransacked the church of Beaucamps-le-Vieux on the night of 23 August. They are said to have ripped out the pipes of the church organ and thrown church clothes all over the place. Parish priest Father Daleb Mpassi discovered the heinous act. During the act, a wooden part of the organ pipe got damaged when the culprit(s) twisted and crushed the pipes. According to police, the culprit(s) waited to be locked in the church to commit these crimes as no door was forced open. Father Mpassi filed a complaint with the police, who are currently investigating.
Historical Church Windows in Cambrai Vandalised
August 23, 2021, FrancePolice in Cambrai has been called the crime scene where unknown perpetrators damaged a century-old stained glass from the Cambrai Cathedral. The incident happened on 23 August and was reported by the archdiocese. Unknown perpetrators are said to have thrown stones through the stained glass that survived both world wars, as it was built by the end of the 19th century. An investigation is already underway.
Finish Lawmakers Consider Conversion Therapy Ban
August 23, 2021, FinlandLawmaker in Finland have agreed to consider a conversion therapy ban after a citizen initiative received the required 50,000 signatures. The initiative was launched in July by Perttu Jussila and it had since reached 52,721 signatures which meant it would be referred to Parliament. If it would become law, traditional Christian teaching on gender would be challenged.
Arson at St. Francis Church Door in Muggiò
August 23, 2021, ItalyOn the 23. August it was reported that the front door of the St. Francis Church in Muggio was deliberately set alight. This happened only two months after the Church of St. Charles suffered a similar attack. Unknown vandals sprayed an inflammable liquid and set fire to the door. Fr. Marco Oneta discovered the attack on the next morning and informed the police. The flames have damaged the inside of the doorway.
New School Guidance on "Supporting Transgender Young People" in Scotland Violates Human Rights and Is Ideologically Infused, Say Critics
August 21, 2021, United KingdomScottish feminists groups and lawyers are siding with the Christian Institute who consider the new guidance introduced by the government as highly questionable and being promoting a dangerous ideology. The document states that some children "are exploring their gender identity in primary school settings", and that they can come out as transgender "at any age". It reads: “If a young person in the school says that they now want to live as a boy although their sex assigned at birth was female, or they now want to live as a girl, although their sex assigned at birth was male, it is important to provide support and listen to what they are saying.”Marion Calder, from For Women Scotland described the new guidance as "really, really worrying". Leading Human Rights Lawyer Aidan O'Neill criticised that this move goes against human rights laws and is additionally a threat to parental rights. The Government has now backtracked from their plans as the Christian Institute threatened them with legal action.
Christian Preacher Arrested for Reading the Bible out Loud in London
August 20, 2021, United Kingdom“Be careful with what you say in future when reading outside”, this was the response a Christian street preacher received one month after he was questioned by the police for reading the Bible aloud in a calm voice and steady tone outside a railway station in London. During his interview, the police tried to determine whether the man's reading was "abusive" and harassing under the public order act. Organisations aiming to protect freedom of speech are concerned about peoples right to freely express themselves in public as the Public Space Protection Orders can easily censor and therefore criminalise normal people on the streets. Changes to the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts (PCSC) Bill are expected in September.
Priest Brutally Attacked in Bristol by Four Men
August 20, 2021, United KingdomFather Colin Mason of Sacred Heart Church in Westbury-on-Trym has addressed a complaint letter to the police after the investigation about the attack he suffered was dropped. The incident took place back on 20. August when 60-year old Priest told a group that was renting his church hall for a wedding party that they had gone past the agreed time. Immediately after, he was held by four men, while one man - probably in his late 20's - punched him until he was covered in blood and left him lying on the ground. He said the initial response from the police was very efficient, but he did not hear any news for a month. As he called asking for an update, they told him that the case had been 'filed'.
Church in Gieres Desecrated with Satanistic Graffiti
August 19, 2021, FranceThe church of Saint Martin de Gières located east of Grenoble was desecrated on 16 August. Unknown perpetrators smeared satanistic tags on the church. The profanation stated that "God is a fraud", "Satan is great" and that "The only Church that illuminates is the one that burns". The tags were one metre high and sixty wide and paint in black. The police were informed and are investigating the case.
Statue of Virgin Mary Desecrated in Plouay
August 19, 2021, FranceThe shrine of Lourdes in Plouay was vandalized by unknown perpetrators. They have decapitated the statue of the Virgin Mary, sometime overnight from 16 August to 17 August. Built in 1955, the Shrine was a remembrance of the miraculous healing in Lourdes of Marie-Félicité Le Goaller. Another statue was spared, it was the statue of Saint Bernadette. This was not the first vandalistic attack against the site. The police were informed and are investigating.
Man Enters Cathedral with Knives and Threatens Guard in Bourges
August 19, 2021, FranceA 39-year-old man tried to enter the cathedral of Bourges armed with secateurs, a penknife and a butcher knife. He is said to have threatened a guard but luckily didn't injure anyone. The incident occurred on 19 August, the police were informed in time who managed to apprehend the homeless man. He is in custody and will have to respond for threatening the guard, insulting police officers and carrying prohibited weapons. Police are investigating and ruled out that the incident was a terror attack6667zzz.
Cross on Baptismal Font Stolen from Trier Church
August 19, 2021, GermanyThe cross on the brass baptismal font covering was stolen from the St. Antonius Church in Trier. Parishioners were shocked to find that this eye catching piece of their church had disappeared on August 19th. A complaint has now been filed about this vandalism.
Church desecrated in Langeac
August 18, 2021, FranceUnknown perpetrator(s) desecrated the church of Saint-Gal in Langeac. The damage was reported on 12 August. They are said to have broken into the church and overturned the altar of celebrations and the objects placed on it. In addition, the police found excrements near the entrance to the place of worship. The police are currently investigating and looking for the culprit.
Polemic Cross of Ribalta Vandalised
August 18, 2021, SpainThe Cross located in the Ribalta Park in Castelló has been vandalized with graffiti by unknown perpetrators on the 18. August. The Cross was targeted to be demolished in compliance with the "Historical Memory Law", but the judge has not yet decided on the issue. The message with graffiti said: "Either you knock down the cross, or we will knock it down". This shows bias against religious symbols. The city council has deemed the graffiti unacceptable and has proceeded to remove it.
Police Apprehend Suspect of Church Vandalism
August 17, 2021, FranceA man was arrested after urinating in the Sacred Heart Church in Agen. The arrest took place on August 15 after the man unknowingly set off an alarm while entering the church. Police arrived shortly after and apprehended the man who was irritated by what was happening. He is said to have confessed.
Notre Dame de Lourdes in Roly Vandalised Again
August 16, 2021, BelgiumUnknown perpetrators vandalised the shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in Roly. During the act, a crucifix broke. The incident itself dates back to August 16 and is not the first act of vandalism in the region. In the past two years, the shrine has fallen victim to vandalism several times. In order to maintain the shrine it was decided to install cameras. The police were informed and are investigating.
Statue of Father Eternal Vandalized in Trégastel
August 16, 2021, FranceA statue of Father Eternal in Trégastel has been desecrated. The incident happened during the night of 16 August. Unknown perpetrators are said to have painted unpleasant tags onto the 152-year-old statue. Police have been informed and are currently trying to identify the culprit(s).
Bell Stolen from Germana Chapel in Much
August 16, 2021, GermanyFor the second time, the Germana Chapel in Much was the target of theft. Since this chapel is particularly isolated, the thieves took advantage of it and stole both the bell and its ringing mechanism. The theft occurred somewhere in the second week of August, since on the 10h, a witness heard the bell still ringing, said the police. The police spokesperson, Stefan Birk stated "We assume that the perpetrators climbed a ladder into the eight-meter-high tower of the Germana Chapel and lowered their loot". They further suspect that the thieves intend to sell the bell to a scrap metal dealer as it happened before.
Church and Cemetery Vandalized in Leipzig
August 16, 2021, GermanyFrom the 15th to the 16th of August, unknown vandals graffitied three large black writings on a cemetery wall in Leipzig. In addition, the church's showcase was sprayed with two black symbols (crowns), measuring approximately 125 x 60 centimeters. The damage caused amounted to approximately 1,500 euros, but the police started an investigation to assess the total damage inflicted on the property.
Evangelical Church Vandalized in Hannover
August 15, 2021, GermanyUnknown perpetrators destroyed parts of the Evangelical Reformed Church after they broke in on August 8th. The news said they left the rooms vandalized and some objects were stolen.
Statur of the Virgin Mary Desecrated in Massafra
August 14, 2021, ItalyA statue of the Virgin Mary was destroyed in Massafra. The incident happened sometime overnight from 13 to 14 of August. A Madonna from Medjugorje, as the statue is also known, was placed outside the Sacro Cuore Church. Massafra's community, as well as parish priest Don Michele Bianco, were shocked by the incident. The latter also informed the police about the incident. According to reports, the police is evaluating video surveillance, which shows two rather young people committing the act.
Desecration of Church Garden in Monfalcone
August 14, 2021, ItalyOn 9 August, currently unknown perpetrators vandalised the garden of the church in Monfalcone. The incident was reported by the San Giuseppe association, which manages the oratory. Their president, Luca Waldner, explained the necessity of keeping the garden closed until the reparation work is completed. According to Waldner, this is just one of many vandalism acts targetting the church and its premises. Police have been informed and are currently investigating.
Street Preacher Arrested for Alleged Hate Speech
August 14, 2021, United KingdomStreet preacher Ryan Williamson from Loughbrickland was arrested for alleged hate speech, while preaching in Larne on 10 August. Subsequently, MP Mr. Wilson expressed on social media that “police probably didn’t handle this very well”, for there is video footage of Williamson preaching and his arrest circulating on social media. Williamson was released 30 minutes later. However, the police are being harshly criticised. Williams stated to have received much support from the local community.
Vandalised Graves in Saint-Jean-de-Muzols (Ardèche)
August 14, 2021, FranceBetween 13-14 August, three graves in Saint-Jean-de-Muzols cemetery were vandalised. The incident has been reported to the police, who are now investigating the case.
Vandalism and Theft at Church in Laskowa
August 13, 2021, PolandUnknown perpetrators vandalised the church of the Most Holy Name of Mary in Laskowa. The incident is said to have happened sometime overnight from 11 to 12 August. It has been reported that the culprit vandalised the church and stole money and parts of the church's furniture. Damage has been estimated to be 2,200 Euros. Police were informed and are currently looking for the perpetrator.
Police Recovers Safe Stolen from Church in Lüdenscheid
August 13, 2021, GermanyIn the night from 18 to 19 July, an unknown person stole a safe from the church "Queen Mary" in Lüdenscheid. In the latest event, the police managed to find the safe, which was discovered by a passer-by in a near park. The police are now looking for any possible eyewitnesses. The 200-kilos heavy piece will be returned to the church after the investigation comes to an end.
Second Arson This Year Attack against Church in Déols
August 13, 2021, FranceArsonists once again attacked a church in Déols near Châteauroux. The church was deliberately set on fire in the past already, one recent case dates back to August 8, 2021, in which the altarpiece was destroyed by the fire. In the year 2020, the church has also been subjected to arson, leading the clergy to close the church for reparation works. Police are investigating.
Swastikas Tagged on Church in Hénon
August 13, 2021, FranceOn 12 August, unknown perpetrators desecrated the church of Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul in Hénon with swastikas. The damage was discovered by the sexton, who came to close the church's door. According to the report made, the vandals also damaged the porch of the building. Police have been informed.
Graveyards desecrated in Redessan
August 13, 2021, FranceDuring the night of 13 August, unknown perpetrators vandalised the cemetery of Redessan. The cemetery is located on the road to Saint Gervasy. It was reported that a cross was broken, plaques were smashed and flower pots were thrown over. A complaint was filled with the police who are investigating the case.
Zaragoza Church Defaced by Gratify
August 13, 2021, SpainThe façade of the Zaragoza church of La Magdalena was painted with inscriptions on the 13th of August. The graffiti included anarchist symbols with phrases reading: "Evictions without riots", and "freedom prisoners 27-F." This church has been targeted a number of times and few walls are free of this vandalism.
Parish Priest in Vienna Locks Thieve in
August 12, 2021, AustriaA priest in Vienna simply locked up an offertory thief in his church. The priest had kept an eye on the suspicious 39-year-old male of Romanian descent, who has allegedly been stealing money from the offertory since July 2021. When he returned on August 10, 2021, the parish priest observed the man's actions through video surveillance and simply locked him up, while he stole again. Without further ado, he informed the police about the thieve. Police are currently investigating the case.
Toddlers Allowed to Change Gender without Parental Consent
August 12, 2021, United KingdomUnder the new LGBT inclusivity guidelines, children as young as four will be able to change their names and gender at school, without their parents' consent. A 70-pages document authorized by the Scottish government, dictate teachers to ask pupils for their new names and pronouns instead of questioning their 'decision' to transition to living as the other gender. Campaigners fear for the safeguarding of children and the breach of parental rights to protect their children. Scottish lawyer Aiden O'Neill fears that this move could be very illegal and potentially dangerous.
Armin Laschet Publicly Mocked for His Believes, Experts Concerned for Religious Freedom
August 12, 2021, GermanyArmin Laschet, the CDU's candidate for the next federal elections, has been attacked in an anti-Catholic video shown at a political election event in early August. In the video, Laschet is seen as a Russian Matryoshka doll that 'hides' several other dolls inside. A voiceover says "whoever votes for Armin Laschet and the CDU, votes for ultra-Catholic Laschet confidants for whom sex before marriage is taboo". Bishops and politicians fear for a wider erosion of freedom of religion in an increasingly secular Europe.
Sacred Hosts Stolen from Church in Houyet
August 12, 2021, BelgiumA thieve stole an 18th-century silver ciborium and consecrated hosts from a church in Houyet. The police have been informed and are now looking for the perpetrator. It is said that the incident took place on 12 August.
Accused Finish MP Päivi Räsänen Concerned over Religious Freedom of Christians in Europe
August 11, 2021, FinlandIn 2004 MP Päivi Räsänen co-authored a church pamphlet about human sexuality for which she is additionally prosecuted on the grounds of ethnic aggravation . The other charges raised against her are based upon a TV interview and a social media post she made. If she is found guilty on all three counts she might be facing a prison sentence of up to six years. During a podcast with Jeff King, she told him that her case raises questions about religious freedom in Finland. "If, for example, any of the viewpoints contained in the Bible would be considered sufficient as such to fulfil the criteria for the crime of ethnic aggravation, then the distribution of the Bible, or rendering it available would in principle be considered a crime of ethnic aggravation and thus punishable", she cited a police report on her case. Talking to King she further stated: "This is also a question, are we allowed to agree with the Bible? Are we allowed to keep Bibles in public and teach what the Bible tells us? I think this is a very, very deep question of freedom of faith and religion."
Church in Remigny Vandalised
August 11, 2021, FranceOn the 7th July, the church in Remigny has been attacked again only a couple of days of it re-opening. Unknown perpetrators broke two stained glass windows in the historical church. A complaint has been filed and police are currently searching for the perpetrators.
Police Apprehended Vandals of Cemetery
August 11, 2021, FrancePolice arrested two brothers at the age of ten who are said to have desecrated 18 graves in the communal cemetery of Ham-les-Moines. The incident happened on 31 July, however, the police only managed to arrest them in August. It was reported that the police caught them as they were trying to desecrate another graveyard. They were handed over to their parents, who might have to pay for the damage their children made.
Another Act of Vandalism in the Church of Lubliniec
August 10, 2021, PolandAn unknown perpetrator has knocked over the candles and the candlestick in the Saint Nicholas' Church in Lubliniec. The incident took place on the morning of August 7, 2021. It was reported by a churchgoer who noticed the broken votive chandelier. Police are investigating.
Polish Police Apprehend Man who Desecrated Church in Lubliniec
August 10, 2021, PolandThe Police arrested a 39-year-old male, resident of Lubliniec. The man was apprehended on 9 August and is accused of having knocked over and broken a votive candle holder in the Saint Nicholas Church in the city centre. According to a police spokesperson the man admitted to the accusations raised against him. He was charged with the crime and is now facing a punishment of up to five years of imprisonment.
Stolen Crucifix of Church in Vada Recovered
August 10, 2021, ItalyA stolen crucifix from the church in Vada was recovered and brought back to its place. The small sacred object was stolen from the altar of the parish of San Leopoldo for unknown reasons. A passerby spotted the gold-plated object in a bush, not far from the parish. Police were informed and the crucifix has now returned to its former place. However, the investigation to find the culprit is still ongoing.
Man Steals from Churches and Attacks Parish People
August 10, 2021, PolandAn unknown suspect stole a currently unknown amount of money from two churches in Katowice. On August 10., upon his return to one of the churches, he was confronted by the parish priest and a parish employee resulting in them being attacked with a spray bottle of gas. The 50-year-old was caught on CCTV and is now being searched for by the police who was informed by the parish personnel.
Statue of the Virgin Mary in Tramoyes Desecrated with Degrading Drawings
August 10, 2021, FranceUnknown perpetrators desecrated the statue of the Virgin Mary in Tramoyes. It is reported that the face of the Virgin was painted with a felt-tip pen, the incident occurred on 10 August. The culprit drew glasses and a moustache onto the statue, which is located near a church. A complaint was filed and the police were notified.
Catholic Priest Brutally Murdered in France
August 9, 2021, France60-year-old priest, Olivier Maire, was murdered on 9 August. The alleged murderer is 40-year-old Emmanuel Abayisenga, who is currently under judicial supervision for the alleged burning of the Nantes Cathedral in July 2020. He is said to have turned himself in, to the police after the crime. The crime took place in Mortagne-sur-Sèvre, which is about 60 kilometres from Nantes.
Female Street Preacher Wins Legal Challenge
August 9, 2021, United KingdomChristian street preacher Hazel Lewis, 49, won her legal case after being accused of hate crimes and being falsely arrested by the local police. On 12 February 2020, the preacher was arrested for allegedly making homophobic and racist comments and was held in custody for several hours. Although Lewis provided audio evidence proving her innocence, the police went on to charge her for the accusations made against her. In court Judge Julia Newton ruled in favour of Lewis stating there is "no case to answer".
Update: Police Questioned Man Who Killed Priest in Saint-Laurent sur Sèvre
August 9, 2021, FrancePolice are questioning the alleged murderer of 61-year-old French priest Father Olivier Maire. 40-year-old Rwandan immigrant, Emmanuel Abayisenga, claimed to have killed the 61-year-old priest, who took him in and sheltered him, for currently unknown reasons. The incident happened on 9 August in Saint-Laurent-sur-Sèvre. Abayisenga was on bail as he was awaiting his trial for the alleged burning of the Cathedral of Nante in 2020.
Pope Received Threatening Letter Containing Bullets
August 9, 2021, ItalyItalian law enforcement is investigating a suspicious envelope addressed to Pope Francis. The letter that contained three bullets, was discovered by postal employees at a mail sorting facility near Milan on 9 August. According to a paramilitary police spokesperson, the envelope had been sent from France and was addressed by hand in pen to “The Pope, Vatican City, St Peter’s Square, Rome”. Apart from the bullets, which police presumes to be for a pistol, the letter contained a message referring to financial operation at the Vatican.
Update: Man Who Sent Letter with Bullets to Pope Francis Identified
August 9, 2021, ItalyItalian law enforcement managed to identify the source of the mysterious letter containing three 9 millimetre calibre bullets from the Flobert type, addressed to the Pontiff at the Holy See. The man's identity is said to be already known to the Vatican gendarmes, who are currently coordinating and evaluating the situation. Although identified, police are still working on the individual's whereabouts.
Police Apprehend Thieves after Repeated Thefts in Montebelluna Region
August 9, 2021, ItalyPolice in Montebelluna caught the thieve who was stealing offerings from several churches. A 47-year-old male already known to the police, was charged with aggravated theft for stealing the offerings from different churches in the Montebelluna region. The thefts all happened over a time period of several months. The culprit was caught while leaving another church by a patrol of military officers on 5 August.
MP Calls for Save Zones around Abortion Clinics
August 9, 2021, IrelandStephen Donnelly is "fully committed" to introduce safe access zones at abortion-providing facilities, thereby censoring Pro-life groups. Donnelly's statement followed a publication from the Irish Department of Health, which stated the current public order legislation had abolished plans to deal with anti-abortion protests at clinics and GP surgeries. In 2018 Ireland liberalised legislation surrounding abortion. Christian organisations fear for the freedom of speech in Ireland.
Under Investigation: New Irish Conversation Therapie Bill Poses Problems for Therapists
August 9, 2021, IrelandIrish therapists fear for the consequences their work could have in future. A proposal forwarded by Fintan Warfield seeks to amend gender dysphoria to the already existing law banning conversion therapy. His proposal seeks to criminalise “any practice or treatment by any person that seeks to change, suppress and/or eliminate a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity and/or gender expression”. Therapists fear that this approach endangers the openness, efficacy and ethics of therapy in areas related with and to gender identity.
Church Vandalised in Casal Velino
August 7, 2021, ItalyUnknown perpetrators vandalised the church of San Matteo ad Duo Flumina in Casal Velino. The vandals damaged the altar, causing great sorrow among the community, who worked to maintain the spirit of the little church. According to the local press, the incident dates back to 7 August. A complaint has been filed by a member of the 'I Fedeli di San Matteo' association. The police obtained video surveillance and are currently investigating.
Church Bell Stolen From Gondomar
August 7, 2021, SpainThe bell from the Gondomareña parish of San José de Prado was stolen on August 7th. The parish priest filed a complaint but it was not known who did it. The mayor, Francisco Ferreira, said: “We are very upset because, beyond the material value, this is an attack against the cultural heritage of our town."
Hillsong Pastor Expresses 'Shock' about Sex Abuse Concealment Allegations
August 6, 2021, InternationalLead pastor of the global multisite Hillsong Church, Brian Houston, is accused of concealing the sex abuse of his late father Frank Houston, who died in 2004. Australian police officials announced that they were charging the 67-year-old Houston with "concealing child sex offences". Houston expressed his surprise at the allegations raised against him, stating: "These charges have come as a shock to me given how transparent I’ve always been about this matter, I vehemently profess my innocence and will defend these charges, and I welcome the opportunity to set the record straight.”
Granite Cross Near Chapel of Pietat in Lamarque-Pontacq Vandalised
August 6, 2021, FranceA cross made of granite with the purpose to surmount the tomb of a clergyman was broken near the chapel of Pietat in Lamarque-Pontacq. The damage was noticed and reported by a local farmer. The chapel of Pietat was built in the 16th century and is a Marian shrine. Masses are regularly performed in the chapel. Police are investigating.
Two Cemeteries Vandalized in Pau
August 6, 2021, FranceTwo cemeteries were desecrated in Pau. The two cemeteries are the urban cemetery and the Bessières cemetery. An 87-year-old resident noticed that objects are being taken from both cemeteries. The theft was reported to the police.
Update: Italian Homophobia Bill Divides Society and Stipulates Fear
August 6, 2021, ItalyThe "Zan Bill" is still awaiting a decision from the senate. While it waits for a decision the public keeps to be deeply divided over the matter. Opposers of the bill fear that people holding a different view on lgbt+ issues could be penalised simply by publicly making a cross sign and therefore either face high fines or a prison sentence. The Bill has been approved in the lower house of the parliament in November 2020 but still needs to pass the Senate to become law. It aims to add amongst others sexual orientation and gender identity to the already existing law surrounding hate crimes and discrimination.
Christian Police Officer and Pastor loses Legal Challenge
August 6, 2021, United KingdomFormer police officer, Winston Roderick, took legal action against his colleagues on grounds of religious discrimination. An employment tribunal under Judge Rhian Brace dismissed all of his claims on the grounds of Roderick, who is also a pastor, being too sensitive. According to Judge Brace, the comments were never made. Roderick also filed for two other cases, which were equally dismissed.
Update: Fire at Church in Marsala, Suspect Confessed
August 6, 2021, ItalyItalian Police apprehended 52-year-old Guiseppe Montalto, the prime suspect in the Marsala Church fire. Montalto allegedly set fire to the altar and the tabernacle of the church of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima. According to a police spokesperson, the suspect confessed to the crime stating "he was the author of the fire and that the insane gesture was the result of a rapture due to personal reasons". The police found that Montalto used a can of petrol to set fire to the church he and his wife frequented regularly. In addition, the police also found two bombs that would have caused devastating damage. He was charged with aggravated arson and is now awaiting his trial.
New Netflix Documentary Slams Christianity
August 6, 2021, InternationalNetflix's new documentary 'Pray Away' is filled with lies says, Jefferey McCall, a former Transwoman, who found freedom in Jesus. The documentary premiered on 3 August and focuses on the work of Exodus International, a US-based Christian organisation, which sought to “help people who wished to limit their homosexual desires” in the 1990s and early 2000s. It additionally portrays the experiences of people who went through conversion therapy lead by Exodus International. McCall, who is the founder of Freedom March, states that secular media is equating Christianity and his "freedom marches" with conversion therapy.
Hillsong Church Defamed by BBC Documentary
August 5, 2021, United KingdomIn a recent statement published by the megachurch Hillsong, they accuse BBC of defaming and misrepresenting it. They state that Nick Aldridge the show maker of the documentary 'God Goes Viral' misled them from the very start. The show was supposed to cover how Hillsong grew from a family church to a megachurch frequented by celebrities and especially young people all around the globe. On their Website, they published a statement clarifying the misrepresentation and stating their position in relation to the false allegations raised in the documentary.
Evangelical Church in Marseille Severely Vandalised
August 5, 2021, FranceThe Vie et Lumière (Life and Light) evangelical church in Marseille, which is a member of the Evangelical Mission of the Romani of France, was recently vandalised. The church had placed a marquee on their rented space, which has been completely destroyed. A member of the community discovered the burned Bibles, the broken furniture and the broken marquee, which was lacerated with a cutter on the evening of August 4, 2021. That person also informed the police about the vandalism, who are currently investigating.
Church Vandal Caught by Police in Baranówek
August 5, 2021, PolandPolice apprehended a 36-year-old man who is the main suspect in a case of vandalism of a church in Baranówek. The man is thought to have painted offensive inscriptions on the wall of Christ the King Church in Baranówek. The incident dates back to early July. Police could point two other offences to the man who is now facing a prison charge of up to five years.
Update: Police Confirms Ansgarii Church Was Deliberately Set on Fire
August 5, 2021, SwedenSwedish police confirmed the fire in the Ansgarii church was caused by arson. In course of theirs investigations, the police found petrol cans, which were used to start the fire. This is not the first church burned down in the local area. Residents and the local community are now urging the Swedish Government to better protect places of worship. The police are still looking for the perpetrator.
Clergy Personal Threatened with Death and the Basilica Robbed
August 5, 2021, FranceOn 3rd July 2021, the Notre-Dame Basilica in Nice witnessed a robbery attempt by a homeless man. He intended to steal a fifty kilo trunk and threatened the faithful as well as the priest with death. He shouted: "I'll come back and kill you all". In October 2020, the church has witnessed Islamic attack. A Tunisian migrant threated to slit the throats of three people in the church. He was sentenced to 17 months in prison for the attempted robbery and the threats.
Man Targets Churches for Thefts
August 5, 2021, PolandFootage from a surveillance camera allowed police to identify a man who robbed the offertory box money from the parish of the Elevation of the Holy Cross and Our Lady of the Healing of the Sick in Katowice. The incident took place on 5th of August. Sergeant Łukasz Kloc from the city police confirms that they are currently searching for the individual's whereabouts. At this point of the investigation, police released an image of the perpetrator asking the public for help.
Christian Buildings in Bratislava Tagged with Insults
August 5, 2021, SlovakiaOn August 5th, churches and monasteries in the historic city center of Bratislava, were tagged with insults written in red such as “God is Trans”, “Queer revolution is coming”, “and “Queer power." The cost of the damage was considerable and the religious community was very affected. The camera system that is in place was used to try and identify who committed the act.
Saint Mary Magdalene's Church in Caldecote Vandalized a Second Time Only a Week Later
August 4, 2021, United KingdomLess than a week after the Saint Mary Magdalene's Church in Caldecote suffered a thousand pound's worth of damage, it had been vandalised again. The Church, which had recently re-opened after several months of renovation had first been vandalised on 29 July, the second attack followed a couple of days later. Volunteers found several windows were broken and a door seemed to have been forced open. Police are investigating.
Update: Suspect in Desecration of Virgin Mary Statue to Face Charges
August 4, 2021, PolandA 50-year-old woman is currently held as the main suspect in the case of desecration and vandalism of a Virgin Mary Statue in Poland. The woman is accused of having stolen a gold-plated crown from a statue in a church in Kościerzyna, Wielu, worth PLN 1,000 (€219). She was charged with theft and is now facing a prison sentence of up to five years. The incident happened on July 8, 2021. The 50-year-old pleaded guilty to the charges raised against her.
Sanctuary Set on Fire in Marsala
August 4, 2021, ItalyUnknown perpetrator set the sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima in Marsala on fire. The incident happened on 4 August, at around 5.30 p.m. Although the fire brigade prevented much damage, the church suffered partial damage to its altar, the gospel book and other furnishings. The police were informed and are now looking for the perpetrator, who was seen fleeing the scene.
Thieves Steal over €3.000 from Presbytery
August 4, 2021, FrancePolice arrested three suspects in a case of church theft. The three individuals are accused of breaking into the presbytery of the church of Ligueuil in Touraine on the 27 July. They are said to have searched the premises and escaped with €3.870 in cash. Parish priest Father Rémy Soubrier explained this is the third robbery of this kind.
School Teacher 'Sacked' from School after Stating Christian Views
August 3, 2021, United KingdomJoshua Sutcliffe, a maths teacher and a Christian pastor, was dismissed from his school in Oxford because he allegedly 'misgendered' a student. He is said to have said "well-done girls" to a group that included a student who identifies as a boy. In a legal challenge, Mr Sutcliffe claims the school has "systematically and maliciously" breached his rights which subsequently forced him to leave his job, for it had become impossible to continue the working relationship. The secondary school he worked in has not commented on the case.
Update: Suspect Caught for Setting Church Door on Fire
August 3, 2021, ItalyPolice managed to apprehend a suspect in the case of arson at the Saint Andrew the Apostle Church. The individual identified is the same person who tried the set the church on fire in the previous year. According to parish priest Don Giuseppe the suspect has been committing acts of vandalism towards the church for some time now. Saint Andrew's community is collecting funds for the restoration of the church door.
Christian Missionary Arrested and Banned from Re-Entering Turkey to Return to his Family
August 3, 2021, TurkeyDavid Byle has lived in Turkey for 19 years and together with his wife Ulrike raised their five children there. The Christian minister has now been barred from re-entering the country because of his Christian faith. Supported by a legal team he is now taking the issue to the European Court of Human Rights. According to the Turkish government, Byle is a ‘threat to public order and security’ and has therefore been banned from the Country. The family is now residing in Germany until they are all permitted to return home.
Irish Government Once again Restricts Certain Church Services
August 3, 2021, IrelandThe Irish Government instructed the local parishes to hold communion and confirmation services this month. This newly imposed restriction came as a blow, as the churches were allowed to resume services only in May after a very long period of COVID-19 related restrictions. While five Bishops have now decided to defy the newly imposed restrictions, holding communion and confirmation services anyway, the reformist Association of Catholic Priests in Ireland has criticised the Bishops action.
Ansgarii Church in Vättersnäs Set on Fire
August 3, 2021, SwedenAn unknown perpetrator burned down the Ansgarii Church in Vättersnäs, Jönköping. The incident happened on 3 August, at around 2 a.m. when residents called the fire brigade. The Ansgarii Church belongs to the Swedish Ecumenical Uniting Church. There were no injuries reported. Police are investigating and treating the incident as a case of arson.
The Galician Government Removed Monument Dedicated to John Paul II
August 3, 2021, SpainA monument, commemorating the visit of Pope John Paul ll, was removed by the Xunta de Galicia in March of 2021. They removed it because of its deterioration but it has recently become a problem since it doesn't seem to be getting reinstalled. The diocese of Galicia has tried to get in put back and the Christian Lawyers Association were collecting signatures to request its return. They claim that the authorities just wanted it removed and it could have easily been repaired so deterioration is not a sufficient reason.
Church Door Set on Fire in Italy
August 2, 2021, ItalyThe wooden door of the church of Saint Andrew the Apostle in Capodrise has been set on fire by an unknown perpetrator. The incident happened on the evening of 2 August. Thanks to the quick intervention of the local fire brigade the fire was brought under control and quickly put out. Police are investigating the scene and are looking for the perpetrator.
15 Graves Desecrated in Stains
August 2, 2021, France15 graves were desecrated on the cemetery of Stains. The incident occurred on the night of 31 July to 1 August. The perpetrator(s) knocked over flowers, broke plaques, smashed vaults and broke open tombstones. A complaint was filed with the local police. In the past, the cemetery had been vandalised numerous times, but never to this extend says mayor Azzedine Taïbi.
Church windows Stoned by Unknown Perpetrators
August 2, 2021, GermanyTwo panes of glass on the façade of the Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche church in Bayreuth were damaged by thrown stones. The police were notified and immediately searched for the perpetrator but they could no longer be found. Witnesses suggested the vandal was about 20 years old, slim, and 175 cm tall.
Update: Suspect Appears in Court After Attacking Priest
August 1, 2021, United KingdomAfter attacking a priest with a glass bottle in the Saint Mary's Catholic Cathedral in Edinburg, the main suspect appeared in court. The male is accused of assaulting a priest who was praying in the Cathedral at the time of the incident. 31-year-old Jason Irvine has been treated as the main suspect in the case. He has been charged with two counts of assault and is held in custody while expecting a court hearing.
Desecration of Statue of the Virgin Mary in Church in Koscierzyna
July 30, 2021, PolandA statue of the Virgin Mary has been desecrated in the church in Kościerzyna. Police managed to detain a 50-year-old female suspect, who is said to have entered the church and tore off the gold-plated crown from the statue of the Virgin Mary. As the main suspect, the woman is being charged with theft and is consequently facing a maximum of five years in prison. 200 Meters from the location of the theft, police found the crown. It was reported that the suspect confessed to the crime.
Major Theft of Consecrated Vessels in Zagórów
July 30, 2021, PolandPolice arrested a 45-year-old man who is said to have stolen from the Roman Catholic Church in Zagórów. The incident dates back to the end of July when it was reported that dozen gold-plated vessels, used for the daily celebration of the Mass, have been stolen. During a search of the suspect's flat, police recovered the stolen chalices, patens and ciboria. The suspect is already known to the police and is now facing a sentence of up to 10 years in prison. Until the end of his process, the man was put under police supervision.
Suspect Arrested for Assaulting Priest in Church
July 29, 2021, United KingdomScottish police managed to apprehend a 31-year-old man in Cumbria. It is assumed that Jason Irvine is connected to assaulting a priest on July 26, while the same was praying at the Saint Mary's Catholic Cathedral in York Place. Police charged the man with two assaults, they could connect him to. He is now expected to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court.
Update: Fired CEO Wins Legal Challenge Against Former Employer
July 29, 2021, United KingdomFormer Robertson Trust Fund CEO Kenneth Ferguson was fired because he held traditional Christian views on marriage. In a legal challenge, the Employment Tribunal found that Ferguson was a victim of religious discrimination and unfair dismissal. The consequences of the ruling are not yet revealed. A further hearing is expected to take place in order to determine the amount of compensation the Robertson Trust has to pay Mr Ferguson.
Karl's Church in Vienna Repeatedly Vandalised with Graffiti
July 29, 2021, AustriaThe Karls Church in Vienna has been repeatedly attacked and spray painted by vandals. Figures of the crime statistics show that this is by no means an isolated case since the number of offences of damage to property has increased by 46.7 per cent alone in the last year. After the latest attacks on places of worship, the Vienna People's Party (ÖVP) is requesting security measures to keep places of worship safe.
Saint Mary Magdalene Church in Caldecote Severely Vandalised
July 29, 2021, United Kingdom10 days after the Saint Mary Magdalene Church in Caldecote reopened it fell victim to vandalism. Windows were smashed, a powder fire extinguisher was emptied inside the church and the decorations were torn off and bleach was thrown over the floor and altar. The incident is said to have happened between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. on 29 of July. Police have been informed and are currently investigating the case.
Major Acts of Vandalism at Chapel Memorial in Besançon
July 29, 2021, FranceDuring the night of 29 July to 30 July vandals are said to have caused great damage to the memorial at the Chapelle des Buis. The memorial houses a statue of the Virgin Mary and a crypt, which was built in 1949 in remembrance of 5,500 victims the town lost to the Second World War. Brother Nicholas from the Diocesan Association, who is the owner of the memorial, discovered the destruction and reported it to the local authorities. Acts of vandalism have increased lately, as especially young people come during nighttime to the monument to party and take drugs, stated the local residents. A plan to protect the monument is underway.
Church Burned Down in Glasgow, Possibly by Arsonist
July 28, 2021, United KingdomGlasgow's St Simon's church fell victim to a devastating fire. Emergency services were called to the location in the morning hours of 28 July. Saint Simon's Catholic Church was the 'spiritual home' of the cities' polish community. Additionally, residents were evacuated or told to keep windows and doors shut. One person had to be rescued from the flames and was given treatment at the scene. Police were informed and are currently investigating the cause of the fire.