All cases

Attempted Arson at St. Gregory's Church in Kevindale During Funeral Preparations

October 8, 2020, United Kingdom

On October 8th two young men forcefully broke into St Gregory's Church in Kevindale by smashing a window of the side chapel. They were caught by the parish priest while they tried to set fire inside the church. The two also caused some other vandalism inside the church. The priest chased the two perpetrators down the road but did not catch them. The vandals broke in during ongoing preparations for a funeral. The community of the church was shocked and demands reparations. The police is investigating.

Arson and Vandalism in Barcelona Targeted El Carmen de Vic Church

October 7, 2020, Spain

On the 7th October, a man caused five fires in the same morning against furniture, banks and the wooden doors of a Church in Barcelona. The police have arrested the 39-year-old man. The Church El Carmen de Vic dated from the 17th and 18th century. The citizens helped the agents to locate the suspect, who first tried to flee.

Martini Church in Bremen Vandalized Again

October 7, 2020, Germany

The Martini Church in Bremen that belonged to the pastor Olaf Latzel was vandalized again, as reported on the 7th of October. It was smeared by unknown perpetrators with anarchic signs and the inscription "Fight Homophobia" on the wall. The Pastor Latzel is seen as an opponent of abortion and homosexuality and a "hate-speaker" by the LGBTI community. The police will investigate. Meanwhile, in November the pastor will stand in court for sedition, because of his teaching about natural family and homosexuality.

Pro-Life Campaigners Banned Outside Abortion Clinic in Manchester

October 7, 2020, United Kingdom

On October 7th, a 'buffer zone' was introduced outside the Marie Stopes Abortion Clinic in Manchester. According to the BBC, the people visiting the clinic felt harassed by the pro-life campaigners. On the other side, the campaigners assured the clinic to be peaceful and stand outside with banners. After the case in Fallowfield, Pro-Choice groups seek to get the same PSPO (Public Space Protection Order) for other abortion clinics.

A Pro-Life March Blocked and Disrupted by Left-Wing Extremists

October 7, 2020, Germany

More than 300 police officers were deployed to protect the pro-life march and pro-life activists. Left-wing extremists disrupted and blocked the way to prevent the march. Some of them were temporarily arrested and the police had to threaten them with the use of the baton.

Repeated Vandalism and Graffiti on the Church of Mary in Madrid

October 5, 2020, Spain

In Madrid, the Church of Santa Maria La Antigua was repeatedly tagged with graffiti that appeared on the walls. Additionally, around the church people have left garbage, which degrades the environment. The church is one of the oldest buildings in Madrid, but it is left in a state of abandonment.

St. Kevin's Church Severely Vandalized

October 5, 2020, United Kingdom

On October 5th, the St. Kevin's Church in Bargeddie was severely vandalized by unknown perpetrators. A Jesus statue was found with both arms broken off. The police is investigating.

Vandalism of Parochial Empty Container

October 4, 2020, Italy

In Foligno, on the night of 3rd to 4th October, unknown vandals smashed the windows and floors of the parochial container near the fractional church. The container was empty, so the act of destruction was suspected to be biased. The carabinieri will check the security cameras for clues.

Gilded Cross Was Stolen From Church in Kastl

October 3, 2020, Germany

On the 3rd of October, a gilded cross was stolen from the monastery castle church St. Peter in Kastl. The church remained open during the day. The police is looking for witnesses.

Arson Attack With Burning Vehicle to Saint-Pierre Chanel Church

October 3, 2020, France

In the evening of October 3rd, a group of approximately 10 people, dressed in black and masked, set fire to Saint-Pierre Chanel church in Rillieux-la-Pape, close to Lyon. They pushed a car up to the church wall and set it on fire, which blackened the facade and caused damage to offices and meeting rooms. According to mayor Alexandre Vincendet, the same group had set around 10 cars in town on fire that night in a violent raid.

Break-In And Theft in Church in Stolpen

October 3, 2020, Germany

On the night of 3rd to 4th October, unknown persons broke into the Church in Stolpen, through forcing a side door open, and stole the donation money from a wall safe. The safe was also opened by force. They took around 50 euros from the inside. The damage done was estimated at 1000 Euros.

Statue of an Angel Again Destroyed by Vandals

October 3, 2020, Germany

On the weekend of 2 to 4 October, the statuette of an Angel placed in front of the church of the Holy Spirity in Laufenburg, was destroyed by unknown vandals. Only the feet of the angel remained in front of the church, the other pieces are missing. The statue has been vandalised many times before in 2005. It was restored and inaugurated again in 2006. The restored copy was then damaged again. The city has offered 500 Euro for anyone who can give helpful hints about the perpetrators.

Devastating Arson at Catholic Voluntary Academy in Derby

October 3, 2020, United Kingdom

On the early morning of the 3rd of October, a fire broke out in the St. Mary's Catholic Voluntary Academy. The firefighters spent most of the day tackling the fire. The Derby City Council was told that there was an alarm at 5am for a break-in, which confirms the case as an arson attack. The fire has devastated the school and the pupils will have to be sent to other schools while reconstruction begins.

Threats Against Pro-Life Supporters and "March For Life" Banned in Switzerland 2019, 2020 and 2021

October 2, 2020, Switzerland

In the city of Zürich, the March for Life was opposed by extreme left activists, as it also occurred in Austria and Germany, which led the local government to ban the march. The march has already been banned in 2019 and also for 2020 and 2021 with no consistent reason. The official reason for the ban are safety concerns for the participants of the march, due to violent counter-protests and possible riots. As an alternative to the march, there would have been a smaller gathering of the pro-life supporters, but the Congress Center Winterthur, where the event would have taken place in a smaller form, has denied access. The organizers of the march announced that they will pursue legal action against this decision.

Court Denied Asylum to Converted Refugees and Increased Risk of Deportation

September 30, 2020, Germany

In Germany, the asylum for refugees converted to Christianity has diminished significantly in the last years, according to the Organization Open Doors. The cases vary depending on the federal state and court. In the province of Bayern, the parishes have increasing problems with the state institutions regarding converted. The Administrative Court denies the refugees their decision of their faith being genuine and reject their asylum application. These Christians could face severe sentences including the death sentence for converting to Christianity if they are deported.

Arson Attack Against Church in Vaggeryd

September 29, 2020, Sweden

During the night of 29 September the Haghults church in Klevshult was set on fire by an unknown perpetrator. A bell tower from the 18th century was completely destroyed and the cemetery was also damaged by the fire. The fire was reported by a witness. Police have started investigations into the arson.

Acts of Vandalism at the Church of San Niccolò

September 28, 2020, Italy

During the night of 27 to 28 September, vandals smeared the walls of the church of San Niccolo in Agliana. The whole facade of the Church was tagged with vulgar inscriptions or images. The police was notified and the church plans to install surveillance cameras.

University of Edinburgh and University of Stirling Accused of Restricting Free Speech by Refusing to Affiliate Pro-Life Societies

September 28, 2020, United Kingdom

The Society for the Protection of the Unborn Children (SPUC) and the Alliance of Pro-Life Students (APS) published a report called Free2Speak on September 28, which analyzed campus censorship in Scotland. Each university was scored according to their policies towards pro-life students, societies and outside speakers and the students' experiences. Both Edinburgh and Stirling university were marked as "fails" in the survey because their students' unions refused to affiliate pro-life societies.

Statue of the Virgin Mary Destroyed

September 28, 2020, Italy

The statue of Our Lady of the church of the Holy Spirity was damaged by vandals during the night of 29 September. The statue was placed in front of the Chapel. It was thrown to the ground and broken into two pieces. The parish priest reported the incident to the police.

Podcast With Christian Journalist Birgit Kelle Deleted from Spotify

September 28, 2020, Germany

The sequence number 61 of the podcast "indubio" was deleted by Spotify, where the journalist Birgit Kelle was invited to speak about her book "Noch Normal? Das lässt sich gendern!" (Still Normal? That can be gendered!), which criticizes the gender movement. Spotify did not give any precise reason for the deletion, it simply said "content policy violations". Birgit Kelle has accused the streaming service of censorship functioning under the umbrella of the theme of "cancel culture". The Podcast "Indubio" has never used hate speech or any form of insulting behavior. The makers of the podcast have also filed a protest to Spotify for the unfair deletion, which was forwarded to the technical support.

Break-in at Church in Marburg

September 27, 2020, Germany

On September 27. in the morning, an unknown person gained access to a church in Marburg by force. The burglar was apparently disturbed and fled without looting. The police in Marburg is taking clues from witnesses.

Church Doors and Locks Damaged in Zeil

September 27, 2020, Germany

Unknown perpetrators caused damage of approximately 1,000€ to a church in Zeil by damaging the sacristy door, the door leading to the church tower, another side door and three locks on the offertory boxes. The incident occurred some time between September 27th and September 28th.

Urination and Communist Paroles Scrawled on Church Wall in Vienna

September 25, 2020, Austria

The St. Johann Evangelist Church, situated on Keplerplatz in the 10th district of Vienna, has been soiled by what appears to be urination, Austrian newspaper Heute reports on September 25. The unknown perpetrators left a communist message, including the hammer-and-sickle-symbol, on the church wall. The message reads "130 years of May 1st, long live the red flag of the communist party!"

School Worker Lost Discrimination Case for Her Dismissal After Posting Christian Views on LGBT on Facebook

September 25, 2020, United Kingdom

On January 7th 2019, the Farmor's School in Fairford dismissed Mrs Kristie Higgs for committing gross misconduct. The school directive received a complaint about the teacher's posts on her private Facebook disagreeing with LGBT+ agenda (On the 26th October 2018). Mrs. Higgs appealed against the dismissal on January 14th 2019 for discrimination against her religious beliefs. The court concluded on September 25th, that her dismissal was not a discriminating act against her beliefs, but about "gross misconduct" understood by the school directive. During the whole process, Kristie Higgs received commentaries like "Keep your religion out of it" and was called a ‘Pro-Nazi right-wing extremist’. The court ruled against her, even though the government has restricted the Relationships and sex education (RSE) guidelines, to protect religious freedom and although the court acknowledged that Mrs. Higgs behavior was not homophobic or transphobic. Higgs is appealing the court decision.

Newly Proposed Bill to Establish a "Regional Observatory on Christianophobia" in Lazio/Italy

September 25, 2020, Italy

Following the increase in acts of violence and vandalism in churches of Rome and the province, regional councillor of Lazio, Laura Corrotti from the Lega party, presented a bill in September to establish a "Regional Observatory on Christianophobia". The aim is to research issues concerning discrimination against the Christian religion and protection of religious freedom, and to document acts of persecution, discrimination, violence and religious intolerance against Christians, which are often labelled as simple acts of vandalism.

Fire at the Jeremia Church Suspected Arson

September 24, 2020, Germany

On the 24th of September, the roof of the Jeremiah Church on Burbacher Weg was set on fire. More than 250 forced from the fire department were on site. "Reaching the fire is made more difficult by the roof construction," the fire department announced. Therefore, it used so-called extinguishing nails. The police are investigating.

Sacred Silver Objects Stolen from St. Clemens Church in Grevenbroich

September 24, 2020, Germany

During the night of September 24 to 25, unknown perpetrators broke into the sacristy, forced open a tabernacle and stole the 100 year-old silver objects which had been used for baptisms for decades. The community published pictures, hoping that the meaningful objects would be found. This had been the third break-in since June.

Pro-life Activists Forbidden to Stand in Front of Abortion Clinic in Utrecht

September 24, 2020, Netherlands

Pro-life activists of “Schreeuw om Leven”, who offer help to women in front of an abortion clinic in Utrecht, were required to stay in a buffer zone at a distance from the clinic. The Veiligheidsregio (Security Region) Utrecht referred public health and traffic safety as the reasons for the change in regulations, which was communicated on September 24th. As a consequence, the pro-life activists were severely restricted in offering support to visitors of the clinic.

Church Window Damaged With Stones

September 24, 2020, Germany

Between 24th and 25th September, unknown perpetrators threw stones at the Protestant Church in Oberotterbach. The damage is approximately 1150 Euros. According to witness, a group of children of primary school were seen at the scene of the crime. The police are asking for clues.

Former Lesbian Experiences Discrimination After Leaving LGBT-Lifestyle and Becoming Christian

September 24, 2020, Germany

In a news article of an interview with a former lesbian, published on 24. September, Teresa Frei (changed name) talks about how in the more than 20 years of lesbian life she endured a lot of discrimination, violence and intolerance. But she says: "no discrimination as a lesbian living woman was as bad as the one which overtook me after I had discarded this way of life. " She recalls being repeatedly criticized and called old-fashioned and arch-conservative. She wrote a book called "Frauen Lieben" (Loving Women) under the false name of Teresa Frei, because she knows under her real name she would be subjected to bullying, and attacks. Teresa believes that her testimony is harmful to the LGBT Lobby agenda, because it doesn't go along with their narrative, but she refuses to accept the prohibition of expression or to have imposed opinions. According to her, there are lobbyists who search the internet for critical information to then publish inflammatory articles to create hatred and silence other people. She talks openly about her biography and wounds that led her to chose a lesbian lifestyle. Teresa also states that being homosexual is not genetically predisposed, and she has firsthand insight on the topic.

Priest Stabbed in Madrid

September 24, 2020, Spain

On the morning of 24 September, Javier Contreras Beorlegui, a priest from the diocese of Getafe was stabbed as he prepared to open the church San Josemaría de Alcorcón. He was stabbed in the upper body and received two cuts on the arm. The incident was witnessed and the police were called. The attacker was then taken to the psychiatric area of Alcorón Hospital and the priest to the hospital.

Pope John Paul II's Blood Relic Stolen from Spoleto Cathedral

September 23, 2020, Italy

On 23 September, the sacristan discovered the theft of Pope John Paul II's relic, a gold and crystal casing with drops of his blood, which was kept and venerated in the Chapel of the Crucifix of the Cathedral Basilica of Spoleto. The Carabinieri Company of Spoleto began investigations and have identified a perpetrator. Archbishop Renato Boccardo expressed his dismay and called for those responible to return the precious relic.

Priest Threatened with Death and Church Damaged

September 23, 2020, Italy

On September 23rd, a man broke into the church San Claudio dei Sacramentini, in the Piazza San Silvestro and threatened the parish priest with death with a metal pole. Then, he broke church furnishing and glass, threw the lectern on the floor, and damaged part of the altar. He was arrested by police officers on the spot.

Deportation of Convert Refugee Threatened with Death Penalty in Afghanistan

September 22, 2020, Germany

Naser R. is a refugee who converted to Christianity and threatened with death penalty in Afghanistan because of his conversion. He has been living in Hof since 2016 and visited St. Michael Church. He got baptized in the Church and since then, he became a member of the community. The young man is to be deported to Afghanistan, where he would face the death penalty. The Dean Günter Saalfrank and the honorary refugee commissioner of the Deanery of Hof wants to take action.

Church of Sant’Agata al Collegio Devastated for a Second Time

September 22, 2020, Italy

Sant'Agata Church was devastated for the second time on September 22nd. The tomb containing the saint's relics was ravaged, the tabernacle was broken, and consecrated hosts were stolen. Representations of the Mother of God were also destroyed. Two men have already been arrested, according to Italian media reports. The Ministry of the Interior promised funds to implement a video surveillance system and improve security measures.

Saint George Church in Lesbos is Desecrated For The Second Time

September 21, 2020, Greece

On the week the 21, September, the Church of Saint George, in the vicinity of the town Moria in Lesbos, was vandalized for a second time. The Images and furniture have been destroyed by migrants who stayed and camped at the church after the fire broke out in Moria's Refugee Camp. When the group left, there was garbage inside and outside the church, apart from the items being broken.

Arson, Desecration and Profanation of Church in Pérols

September 20, 2020, France

On September 20th, a man desecrated the Church of Saint Sixtus II in Pérols. He vandalized equipment, setting fire to song and prayer sheets, a table, part of a pew and a veil. He also tried to set some fabric on fire, but it was fireproof. Then the man grabbed a cross from the altar and threw it to the organ. The man also spit several times on the ground and the priest's deck and urinated and defecated between benches. He was traced, thanks to the cameras in the church, and was arrested by the police because of attempted robbery in Auchan. A police officer recognized the man through a photo published by the priest of the parish.

Theft of Money and Sacred Objects from Parish Office in Martinshöhe

September 20, 2020, Germany

In the night of 20 to 21 September, unknown perpetrators forcefully open the windows of the Heiliger Bruder Konrad parish house in Martinshöhe and ransacked the parish office. They also tried to break into the church and the sacristy, but they were not successful. Sacred objects and a four-figure sum of money were stolen; the overall property damage reaches five figures.

Vandalism of Church Twice in a Week

September 20, 2020, Germany

In the past two weeks, vandals have raged in the city church twice. Shoe marks were found on the altar cloth, and this showing that someone walked on it. The Candles and sacrificial lights were smudged and poured out and wax was distributed in the pews. The parish priest has put signs on the doors, asking the population to keep an eye on the town church. Last year in summer the church was also vandalized several times. The pastor warned that, if there is another case, they will file a complaint.

Vandalism of Catholic Church before Holy Mass in Remembrance of Aborted Children

September 19, 2020, Germany

On the night of 18th to 19th September, the historical church St. Marien am Behnitz and the outer walls of the playground were found vandalized with slogans, like "Abortion is a Human Right. The perpetrators were eventually against Pro-Life movements. The police put charges, although they did not charge any damage to property, because it was pasted wallpaper.

Statue of St. Anthony Demolished

September 18, 2020, Italy

The bronze Statue of St. Anthony in Milano was demolished on the night of 17th to 18th September. The statue was in front of the sanctuary of St. Anthony of Padua for 88 years. The statue is significantly heavy and, therefore, there must have been three perpetrators involved in the demolition. Churchgoers from the neighborhood suspected that the perpetrators are homeless men who gather at the square and are frequently heavily drunk, but there is no evidence that it was them. The police are investigating.

Increased Number of Thefts, Vandalism and Desecrations Leads to Closure of More Churches

September 18, 2020, France

On the occasion of the Heritage Days which took place from 19 to 20 September in Paris, RCF radio in France points out that the increase in theft, vandalism and desecration of churches in France prompts more and more priests to close their churches outside of services. For several months the churches have been attacked through theft of liturgical utensils, relics, desecration and even arson. In 2019, there were more than 1052 incidents registered, including 996 acts of vandalism or graffiti and 56 threats against persons.

Amsterdam Mayor Accused Hillsong Church of Intolerance against Homosexuals

September 18, 2020, Netherlands

Amsterdam mayor Femke Halsema linked the activities of the Hillsong Church with an increasing violence against gays during a council meeting in September and associated them with the promotion of gay healing and conversion therapy. To take action against the church's alleged intolerance, she announced her intention to approach the landlord of the Hillsong Church building. Both Hillsong Church and Christian parties in the council expressed their surprise and disappointment at the unfounded claims.

Mayor "Doesn't Have Time" To Meet the OLRC, Regarding Matters of Religious Freedom in Madrid

September 18, 2020, Spain

The Mayor of Madrid was asked for a meeting by the Observatory of Religious Freedom, based in Spain, to talk about the matter of Religious Freedom and the increase of vandalism against churches in Madrid. The first request was in June, and until September the Mayor did not answer nor did any other consultant confirm a meeting. This was reported by OLRC on September 18th.

Arson to Statue of John the Baptist from the Barock Period

September 17, 2020, Germany

On 17th September, members of the church found the figure of John the Baptist of the baptismal font from the barock period damaged by a burning candle. The perpetrator placed it on purpose. The police estimates a damage cost of 2000 euros. Police is asking for witnesses.

The Statue of the Virgin Mary Completely Vandalized

September 17, 2020, Belgium

With probably an iron bar, the statue of the Virgin, at the Place des Quatre-Grands in Jemeppe, has been demolished.

Increase in Vandalism Against Churches in Northern Ireland

September 16, 2020, United Kingdom

In the last three years, there have been more than 400 attacks recorded against churches. In the last five years it sums up to 600 attacks in Northern Ireland. Most of the attacks happened in Belfast. Most of the incidents are attacks with paint bombs and graffitis, but also various forms of vandalism, arson attacks and general damage to church property are recorded.

Unknown Perpetrators Rioted and Set Fire Inside Church

September 16, 2020, Germany

Between the 16th and 29th of September, unknown perpetrators vandalized the St. Jürgen Chapel in Wolgast. The police was called, after unknown persons were rioting and setting fires inside the church. They broke a window, damaged the window sills and set fire to several places inside the Church, fortunately the flames did not spread. The caused damage is around 7,600 Euros. The police is investigating.

Priest Stabbed to Death Near His Parish in Italy

September 15, 2020, Italy

On the 15th September in Como, Roberto Malgesini, a 51-year-old priest was found dead from knife wounds in the vicinity of his parish. He was known for his devotion to the migrants, homeless people, and those who are in difficult situations. The priest was stabbed several times in a street near the Church of St. Rocco, including one to the neck. The attacker, a 53-year-old man from Tunisia, turned himself in to the police. The man suffered from a mental illness and was known by Malgesini. Malgesini had taken care of him in the parish. On the same morning, the priest was going to bring breakfast for the homeless.

Christian Restaurant Owner Accused of Incitement for Displaying Bible Verses about Homosexuality

September 15, 2020, Germany

The prosecuting attorney's office in Berlin instituted preliminary proceedings against Park Young-Ai, a 71 year-old Christian who owns a Korean restaurant in the Berlin district Schöneberg. She was accused of incitement for displaying a bible verse critical of homosexuality in the window of her restaurant "Ixthys". She was subject to a house search and has been called to a hearing.

Theft from Catholic Church of St Anna

September 11, 2020, Germany

September 11th, between 12 and 19:30 hrs, a display case was broken open in the provost church of St. Anna in Schwerin. Unknown perpetrators stole the relic of Saint Ansgar. The perpetrators also broke open two alms boxes in the church. The total damage to property amounts to about 1,400 euros, but the value of the stolen relic has not been quantified. Police opened an investigation.

Inverted Yellow Cross Sprayed on the Door of La Antigua Church in Valladolid

September 10, 2020, Spain

A large inverted yellow cross was painted onto the main entrance door of La Antigua Church in Valladolid on September 10th. This is not the first time that the church was vandalized. The perpetrator remains unknown.

War Memorial and Church Vandalised in Les Vigneaux

September 10, 2020, France

On September 10, inhabitants of Les Vigneaux discovered that all of the names on the war memorial had been crossed out with paint. Genitals had been painted on the monument as well as on either side of the church door. Mayor Gilles Pierre lodged a complaint.

Damage in the Cemetery and Church of the Madonna del Perpetuo Soccorso

September 9, 2020, Italy

A group of young people climbed over the chapel and broke into the cemetery. The damaged the roof and started throwing the shards of tiles on the street. The police traced and identified the underage perpetrators.

After Facebook Post Pastor Threatened by LGBT Activists with Arson and Physical Assault

September 8, 2020, United Kingdom

Since the 8th of August, Pastor Josh Williamson and his wife experienced several threats and verbal abuse by the LGBT community, because of posting his belief about homosexuality on Facebook. Among them are the threats to burn his church, to perform sexual acts and protests in front of his church and physical assault. His image was also used on pornographic content and shared online, among other misleading information about him. In his conversation with the Police, Williamson was told to be careful not to break the law by insulting the LGBT community and being charged for hate speech. The threats towards him and his church were not investigated, neither the acts of defamation.

Vandalism in St. Emmeram Church in Spalt

September 8, 2020, Germany

On September 8, vandals played with fire on the offertory box, set fire to a large wooden cross and broke a candle on the high altar in St. Emmeram Church in Spalt. The damage amounts to several hundred Euros. The police station in Roth initiated an investigation and asked for information of witnesses.

Statue of the Virgin Mary Decapitated in Borgo Sabotino

September 7, 2020, Italy

During the night of September 7th unknown perpetrators decapitated the statue of the Virgin Mary, called "Madonnina" by locals, which is situated in Borgo Sabotino in the province of Latina. This was not the first time the statue was vandalized the parish SS Cuore di Gesù states, expressing its deep sorrow over this tragic incident.

Discrimination Against Christian Academics in State-Led Educational Agency

September 7, 2020, Spain

The Observatory of Freedom of Religion (OFRC) in Spain, presented a research project in October 2019, to the National Agency for Evaluation and Prospective Studies (ANEP) under the Ministry of Science and Innovation on a Climate Change topic. The actors involved were the University of Alcalá, the University of Catalonia and researchers of three different universities, from which two have a Christian background. In June 2020 they received a statement that the experience of the members of the research, related to climate change, is doubted and they are afraid of a biased study, given the religious weight of the institutions involved. The OLRC took the case to the Ministry, but it was rejected.

Church Walls Vandalized With Graffiti In Ixelles

September 6, 2020, Belgium

Graffiti was found on the walls of Sainte-Croix Church which is situated close to Flagey Square in Ixelles. Tags include the phrases "God is gay", "Je suis a transwoman" ("I am a trans woman"), as well as an inverted cross and the number "666".

Figure of Christ Damaged on Roadside Cross in Katowicach

September 6, 2020, Poland

Vandals damaged the figure of Christ on a roadside cross, which is situated at the intersection between Szczecińska, Ściegiennego and Krzyżowa road in Katowicach. The damage was reported by Sw. Józefa Robotnika Parish in Józefowcu.

30-Centimeter-Long Dagger Found Stuck on Church Door

September 6, 2020, Germany

The Pastor Markus Hasenpusch from the St. John Church in Malchin found a 30-centimeter-long dagger stuck on the door of the church on September 6th. In the door leaf was a 30-centimeter-long dagger with a 17-centimeter large blade. The knife was stuck at a height of 1.60 meters and one centimeter deep in the wood of the church door. The police estimated the damage at 50 euros and is investigating it for " injurious damage to property". The police are investigating and are looking for witnesses.

Sainte-Croix Church Tagged and Vandalized

September 6, 2020, Belgium

The facade of the Sainte-Croix Church, near Place Flagey in Ixelles, was tagged with "God is gay", "I am a transwoman" or the number "666" with an inverted cross.

Theft from the Catholic Parish Church Maria Himmelfahrt in Blieskastel-Aßweiler

September 5, 2020, Germany

On the 3rd of September, several sacred objects were stolen from the Catholic parish church Maria Himmelfahrt in Blieskastel-Aßweiler by an unknown perpetrator. The church was unlocked. The objects were a microphone, Bible, altar bells and gong. Police is looking for clues.

Break-in at a Church Office in Nordenham

September 5, 2020, Germany

In the night between 5th and 6th September, there was a burglary from a church office in Nordenham. Perpetrators forced their way into the building and stole cash.

"Christians are Always Ridiculed": SRF-"Deville" Caused Displeasure

September 4, 2020, Switzerland

Christians are defamed and ridiculed in the satirical program "Deville". The reopening of churches was called irrelevant and unnecessary by David Koch. He also affirmed, that the Covid-19 pandemic had shown that there was no God. Neither the show nor the satirist found the episode harmful and have not apologized

Man Arrested For Burglary And Degradation Of A Church

September 3, 2020, France

On September 3rd in Villeurbanne, the police arrested a 30-year-old homeless man with 62 criminal records who was suspected of committing burglary and degradation of a Christian Church. He was identified through the surveillance cameras and was lately recognized by a witness. He also admitted committing the crimes because of anger towards the religious beliefs.

Man Arrested for Threats and Breaking into Church in Villeurbanne

September 3, 2020, France

On September 3, a homeless man, who had 62 previous convictions, was arrested for burglary in the church building of a protestant community called Transfiguration Église Chrétienne in Villeurbanne. A few days earlier the perpetrator had already appeared the church and threatened people because of their religion. The threats concerned the very church he then broke into. He will be charged with burglary.

Vandals Desecrated Church in Xanthi

September 2, 2020, Greece

The Chapel of St. Alexander was desecrated by unknown vandals in Xanthi, Greece, in the first week of September. The vandals scratched the faces of the Saints and Icons. The exact time of vandalism is unknown.

Series of Thefts in Churches and Diocesan Office

September 2, 2020, France

It is not the first time that the Grignan church has witnessed a theft or degradations of the crib. Two years ago, the trunk, contained between 200 and 300 euro, has been stolen. The church in Châtellerault has been target of thefts for years. On March 4, a 53-old man was filmed breaking the lock on the trunk with a pair of wire cutters and stole the contents of the offerings of the faithful from the church of Saint-Marie d'Ozon. On 2nd September, two men robbed a diocesan office in Vieux Lyon. On 30 August, the church of Plounéour-Ménez in Finistère was a victim of an attempted theft. A statue of Saint Thomas was pulled by a robe from the car of three unknown perpetuators.

Vandalism and Insults on Catholic School

September 2, 2020, France

On the night of the 2nd of September, the catholic School Saint-Louis/Saint-Bruno was vandalized with a Nazi Symbol of a Swastika on the wall. There was also the inscription "School of crime". Another swastika was also found on the wall of the elementary school in the same area. The inscriptions were erased before the students arrived and the police came to investigate crime.

Attempt to Burn Down the Church and a Man was Beaten Up

September 1, 2020, Sweden

On 28th August at night, there was a riot in Ronneby that caused a devastation in the city. Naem Sufan was beaten in the middle of the riot as he tried to prevent angry protesters from going to the Holy Cross church. The protesters tried to burn the church, but Naem Sufan extinguished the fire with his jacket. He had injuries in his shoulder and neck. Afterwards the rioters went to the city center and threw stones at the police. Riots started after a Koran burning in Malmö. This happened on the same night as a vehicle used for charitable purposes was burned.

Vandalism and Burglary in Arzheim Church

September 1, 2020, Germany

On the night of Sunday 30th August to Monday, unknown perpetrators broke into the protestant Church St. Aldegundis in Koblenz-Arzheim through the second floor. The basement window was smashed and food and wine from the church were consumed in the cellar.

Congress Center in Winterthur Refused Hosting March for Life Event Fearing Radical Left Violence

September 1, 2020, Switzerland

The congress center "gate27" in Winterthur withdrew the right to hospitality from the Swiss pro-life association "Marsch fürs Läbe", which had planned to host a substitute event for the March of Life on September 19th. An estimated 400 to 1,000 unauthorized counter-protestors were expected to attempt to block the event, causing the police to give out serious warnings about the danger of violent left-wing extremist attacks. The organizers of Marsch fürs Läbe regret the restriction of freedom of speech and assembly caused by left-wing extremist threats and filed a complaint.

Break In in Church in Aschaffenburg, Germany

September 1, 2020, Germany

During the time between the 1st September and the 7th October, unknown perpetrators broke-in in a Church in Aschaffenburg. They damaged the church. The police is still looking for witnesses and clues.

Sacrilegious Vandals Damaged in Monteu da Po Church

August 31, 2020, Italy

On the night from 30th to 31st August, the churchyard of the parish church of Monteu da Po was vandalized. Vandals left pizza boxes, leftovers of food, paper cups in the churchyard, and beer bottles with broken glass in front of the access to the sacred building. The priest Piero Massaglia expressed his desolation and great annoyance since this is not the first time this happens.

Man Attacked Priest During Mass and Torn the Pages of the Bible

August 30, 2020, Germany

On the 30th August, during a Sunday Mass in St. Joseph's Church in Berlin, a man attacked a priest and desecrated the church. The witnesses recalled that the man was sitting quietly, until he stood up and spat on the ground. He then walked towards the sanctuary of the church while murmuring anti-religious statements and punched the 61-year-old priest, who was knocked to the ground. The attacker took the Bible afterwards and torn several pages from it. While the brother of the priest tried to aid the victim, he was also knocked down with the Bible. The attacker fled unrecognized and the crime is being investigated by the police.

Attempted Burglary in Church

August 30, 2020, Germany

Between Friday night and Saturday morning, unknown persons tried to break into a Catholic Church. They unlocked a glass panel with a cobblestone. The burglars realized afterwards that they would not be able to enter the church any further this way and got away.

Wayside Cross destroyed in Colmar

August 30, 2020, France

During the night of 30 to 31 August, the wayside cross in rue du Logelbach in the city of Colmar was destroyed. Prior to the attack, plans had already been made to restore the cross and set it up in the presbytery park. The priest of Saint-Joseph parish, François Martz, filed a complaint online.

Statue of Armenian Priest Smeared by Turkish Genocide Deniers in Paris

August 30, 2020, France

CCAF (Council for Coordination of Armenian Organizations in France) reported on their Facebook page on August 30th, that a statue of the Armenian priest Komitas Vardapet, symbol of the Armenian Genocide, had been smeared with graffiti. The nature of the incident hints at a motive coming from Turkish genocide deniers. The message read "c'est faux", which can be translated as "This is not true". CCAF expressed their concerns regarding this attack on the dignity of the descendants of the victims of the Armenian genocide.

Old Wooden Cross Vandalised in Mount of Calvary

August 30, 2020, Italy

On an unknown time before the end of August, unknown vandals removed the arms of the wooden cross, which was placed on Monte della Croce in Carpineti. Another unidentified pilgrim, replaced the damage with a wooden rod and tied it with iron wire. A formal recovery of the Cross was celebrated as part of the San Vitale Fair.

Statue of Saint Thomas Targeted For Attempted Robbery

August 30, 2020, France

On the 30th pf August, a statue of Saint-Thomas, which was on the porch of the church in Plounéour-Ménez in Finistère, was targeted by robbers or vandals. Three individuals inside a car pulled a rope around the statue to get into into their vehicle, witnesses saw them and scared the perpetrators away. The robbers fled the scene leaving the statue toppled over and damaged.

15 Pieces of Art Stolen from Basilique Saint-Mathurin in Larchant

August 29, 2020, France

14 paintings and a statue of Christ on the cross were stolen from Basilique Saint-Mathurin in Larchant. While the financial loss was estimated at 25.000 to 30.000 euros, the community also mourned the loss of heritage. The theft could have taken place between August 20 and 29. La Chapelle-de-la-Reine brigade initiated an investigation, supported by the research department of Fointainebleau police.

Anti-Christian Graffiti on Tour de France Course

August 29, 2020, France

Spectators of the Tour de France race, which started on August 29th in Nice, discovered large anti-Christian messages painted on the road of Col de Glières pass, which was part of the race course. The images consisted of a cross inserted into a large prohibition sign and a slogan saying "Bad religion", accompanied by the painting of a red devil on turquoise background and a message saying "Pleased to meet you."

Cemetery and Village Hall Vandalized in Saint-Urbain

August 29, 2020, France

During the night from August 29th to 30th, the cemetery and the village hall in Saint-Urbain (département de Finistère) were vandalized. Several crosses on private tombstones were broken, ornamental shells were taken off a monument dedicated to war victims in the community, and windows of the village hall Ti-Kreisker were smashed. Plougastel police began an investigation.

Sacred Objects for Worship Stolen from Five Churches in Jura Region

August 28, 2020, France

A series of thefts occured in the French region of Jura during the period of August 16th to 28th: A monstrance and a chalice were stolen from both the church in Nevy-sur-Seille and Monteney. In Saint-Etienne Church in Rans, three golden chalices, a small golden ciborium and a silver cup, listed as part of the heritage of sacred arts, were stolen. In addition, a chalice, a ciborium and a paten were missing in Rochefort-sur-Nenon and the collection box in Baume-les-Messieurs was plundered. The police in Dole began investigations and suspected that most of the cases were linked.

Anti-Christian Graffiti on Christian Bookstore in Lyon

August 28, 2020, France

Employees of the CLC Christian bookstore, situated on the quai Tilsitt in Lyon, found red and white graffiti painted on all of their shop windows in the morning of August 29th. The messages included "Christianity is a sect that succeeded" or "Up there, God doesn't exist". A complaint was filed.

The Statue of Christ of The Po Destroyed

August 28, 2020, Italy

On the night between 28th and 29th August, the Statue of Christ of the Po was destroyed. The statue was inaugurated in August, made by the sculptor Mario Spadari. The unknown vandals threw stones at it and then destroyed and mutilated it. The local police started an investigation, but there were neither witnesses nor security cameras.

Car Used by Malmö Church for Charitable Causes Burned

August 28, 2020, Sweden

In the night of August 28, the car used for social welfare causes by Hyllie Church in Malmö was burned down. The car was not in the vicinity of the riot that happened in the same night, however, the perpetrators remain unknown.

Dozens of Graffiti on San Maurizio Church in Monza

August 28, 2020, Italy

During the night of 28 to 29 August, vandals sprayed dozens of graffiti onto the San Maurizio Church in Monza, including the main portal, the granite pillars and the wall with the commemorative plaque of Monsignore Luigi Talamoni. Experts will be required to restore the damaged decor. The people responsible for Monza Church have filed a complaint.

Sold Christian Cemetery Planned to Become Holiday Retreat Area

August 28, 2020, Poland

In the North of Poland, in the city of Bialogóra, the cemetery where about 400 Christian believers are buried, is threatened with plans of turning it into a holiday retreat area. Many of the descendants of the buried now live in Lithuania. The community was not warned about the construction plans. The government representatives says they didn't know the history of the property and sold it to a private enterprise, which is continuing their plans in spite of the protest from the community.

Statue of the Virgin Mary and Baby Jesus Decapitated

August 27, 2020, Italy

On the 27th August, it was reported in the district of Alcara Li Fusi that the terracotta statue of the Madonna was vandalized for a second time. The head of the Madonna and of the Baby Jesus in her arms were both missing, the perpetrators have not been identified.

Man Destroyed Angel Statue in Church

August 25, 2020, Poland

On the 25. August, a 32-year-old man destroyed the figure of an angel with a stoup in the historic church of the Salesian priests dedicated to St. Joseph in Przemysl. This happened just before Mass, during the adoration service of the Blessed Sacrament. He turned out to be intoxicated by alcohol. Apparently he also was offending the priest verbally.

Thieves Stole Around 500 Euros From Offertory Boxes From Churches

August 25, 2020, Germany

On the 25th August, it was reported that in the past month in Grafenwöhr, three churches were ravaged by thieves, who stole the offerings. The empty boxes were found by the respective sacristan. The total amount of money stolen was around 500 Euro. The churches were the Friedenskirche, where the perpetrators used a tool with magnets to fish the coins. The cemetery Church and the old parish Church were also robbed. The sticks were damaged and plucked up. In top of the stolen cash, the churches suffered damage in amount of 450 euros. The police is investigating and asking the parishes to be attentive.

Dubious Acts of Vandalism in Church in Mur-de-Sologne

August 24, 2020, France

Unknown perpetrators tore two paintings, broke a few vases as well as two statues made from plaster, moved a statue of the Virgin Mary and destroyed its pedestal. They re-arranged chairs in a semi-circle in front of the altar and lit candles, creating the impression of a production of some sort. Investigators suspected vandalism rather than Satanic or anti-religious motives. The village filed a complaint.

Opening Hours of Parisian Church Limited Due to Repeated Incidents of Thefts

August 24, 2020, France

L’Immaculée-Conception parish in the 12th district of Paris announced on August 24th that for the rest of August, they would limit the opening times of their church to a few short periods of time per day. The reason were repeated thefts, concerning some Way of the Cross stations, collection boxes and the sacristy. Therefore, the church felt compelled to open only when they could provide sufficient supervision. Regular opening times will be resumed in September.

Church Guest Book Scrawled with Anti-Christian Messages and then Torn Apart in Buzet-sur-Baïse

August 23, 2020, France

An unknown perpetrator wrote aggressive anti-Christian messages into a guestbook called "Book of Life", which the church Sainte-Croix in Buzet-sur-Baïse provided for tourists passing through to share their experiences and well-wishes. Two weeks after the incident, on August 23, the perpetrator returned to rip out all the pages of the book and leave some more insults, referring to the church inter alia as a "synagogue of Satan".

Fire and Explosions in Reformed Church in Villmergen

August 22, 2020, Germany

The Reformed Church in Villmergen was set on fire and caused extensive property damage. The explosions collapsed a ceiling and the entire house was completely sooty. The cantonal police are at the beginning of the investigation and would consider the incident as arson.

Islamist Attacker Targeted President of The Synagogue, LGBT Association, and Church in Graz

August 22, 2020, Austria

On August 22nd, a 31-year-old man from Syria with Islamist motivations violently attacked the president of the Jewish community in Graz, Elie Rosen, with the leg of a chair. Following his capture, he also admitted vandalism attacks on the synagogue, the facilities of LGBT association RosaLila PantherInnen, and a brothel. He is responsible for smearing several walls in Graz with pro-Palestinian paroles and symbols and spraying symbols on a church. The Austrian media reported that the motives were anti-Semitism, homophobia, and rejection of Austrian society, but did not mention that his anti-Christian motives.

Sant' Agata al Collegio Church in Caltanissetta Devastated

August 22, 2020, Italy

Unknown perpetrators broke into Sant'Agata al Colegio Church, one of the oldest churches in Caltanissetta/Silicy, and destroyed candelabra and other furnishings on the night of 22nd of August. It was suspected that they gained access through the adjoining music high school and Scarabelli library. The police started investigations.

Twelve Church Windows Broken In Rotenburg, Damage of 20.000 Euros

August 22, 2020, Germany

Two young men, aged 17 and 18, smashed 12 elaborately crafted stained glass windows and violently bent the window frames in the church of Rotenburg during the night of 21 to 22 August 21. Damages amount to approximately 20.000 Euros. The aim was deliberate destruction, although the exact motives remained unclear.