All cases
Article Questions Whether or Not Government in Ljubljana has Anti-Christian Agenda
April 22, 2014, SloveniaA group called KUL, founded in 2009 by Christian youth in Slovenia concerned with defending life and fundamental human rights, posted an article on their internet site on the 23rd of April, 2014 called, “Christianophobia: Is Mayor Zoran Janković violating human rights and promoting intolerance against Christians in Slovenia?” after Zoran Janković’s municipality had forbidden a mass to be celebrated for unborn babies at the hospital center of the public university of Ljubljana.
Church in Villers-Cotterêts Robbed
April 21, 2014, FranceOn returning from the Easter Vigil, the local priest in Villers-Cotterêts discovered that someone had forced entry into the church. The sacristy was in disarray, and the poor box had been robbed. This box had already been padlocked because of an earlier theft, but the thief still managed to break in, leaving damages amounting to 80 euros. The box had been recently emptied.
Muslim Disrupts Easter Mass
April 20, 2014, FranceIn the region of Jura, France, during a celebration of Easter Mass in the community of Notre Dame de Dole, a Muslim entered, and, putting his carpet next to the altar, began to read parts of the Coran and then proceeded to write in Arab in the parish registry. The same man had already disturbed the Palm Sunday liturgy in two different places, so the police had been warned, and when they showed up on the scene on Easter they calmly asked the man to leave.
Insulting and Blasphemous Graffiti Near Entrance to the Chapel of Locmaria
April 20, 2014, FranceNear the entrance to the chapel of Locmaria, which is part of the parish of Carnac, sometime during the night of Holy Saturday to Easter Sunday, graffiti was painted on a public signpost. This graffiti made blasphemous and insulting comments that made reference to Catholic fascists and a homosexual Jesus. The rector, Father Jérôme Sécher, filed a complaint with the local authorities.
Attempts to Prevent Palm Sunday Precession in Morbihan
April 19, 2014, FranceThe parishioners of the church of Saint-Gildas in l’île d’Houat were the victims of a failed attempt by members of the Association of Freethinkers of France to prevent the Palm Sunday procession. These protestors tried to work within the legal framework, saying that the procession did not have the correct municipal authorisation also claiming that it did not fall within any of the three categories of legal processions. Their attempt failed this year, but the question still remains whether or not such attempts will be successful in future years.
Catholic Lay Blog Attacked
April 18, 2014, FranceThe Catholic lay blog “Le Salon Beige” was put out of order by attacks against the server from an unknown source. This happened three times in four days, one time on Good Friday, the other times on Easter Sunday and Easter Monday.
Church Vandalised in Region of Neuchâtel
April 18, 2014, SwitzerlandA church in Chaux-de-Fonds in the region of Neuchâtel was vandalised during the night by a man who damaged the organ, destroyed the Easter decorations, and ripped out the speakers. The perpetrator appears to have been mentally unstable and was later escorted to a psychiatric hospital. The church intends to keep its opening hours in spite of the event.
Christian Convert Knifed in Hvalsø
April 11, 2014, DenmarkA 48-year-old Christian convert seeking asylum in Denmark was knifed several times by an unknown assailant in the kitchen of the Asylum center in Hvalsø. The victim received blows with a knife in the neck, arm, and back. The victim said that he had previously received death threats for having converted from Islam to Christianity, but no safety measures had been taken.
Labor Union Mocks Holy Week Procession in Seville
April 11, 2014, SpainThe Confederación General de Trabajadores (an anarchist worker’s union) held a procession in Seville in protest of the dismissal of several bus workers at the Damas Bus Company. The procession was also an amalgamation of other groups such as feminists who were protesting a reform of the abortion law. The procession was a mockery of a Holy Week procession and was called the “Blessed Rebellious Pussy (vulgar word for female genitals) Procession and the Holy Entombment of Socio-labor Rights.”
Swedish Nurse Fired for Refusing to Assist in Abortion
April 10, 2014, SwedenIn January 2014 a Swedish nurse has filed a complaint of religious discrimination with Sweden’s equality commission after the hospital where she interned as a midwife sacked her for refusing to assist in abortions. The Ombudsperson for Discrimination concluded that Mrs Grimmark has not been discriminated because her conscientious objection stood against the ”availability of abortion care” and the ”protection of health” of patients requiring abortion.
Chapel Saint-François in Rennes Vandalised
April 9, 2014, FranceUnidentified people broke into the Chapel of Saint- François in Rennes on April 9th breaking open the door to the sacristy. They left lying on the floor the vestments, liturgical linens, and other sacred objects. The perpetrator(s) emptied the poor boxes, but most importantly, the tabernacle was opened and the ciborium tampered with.
Children Vandalized a Saint-Laurent de Rozoy-sur-Serre Church
April 9, 2014, FranceThree children at the age between 7 and 11 vandalized the church of Saint-Laurent de Rozoy-sur-Serre in France. They turned the seats of the church, threw objects on the altar and the prayer books scattered on the floor. The police was able to catch them because of the traces of their shoes.
German Father Imprisoned for Opting his Child out of Sex Education
April 7, 2014, GermanyOn Monday, April 7th, Arthur Wiens was jailed for opting his child out of a sex education class in which nine-year-olds are taught about sexual intercourse with a plush vagina and rubber penis. Wiens spent a week behind bars, and his wife is threatened with a similar punishment.
Left-Wing Radicals Attack Peaceful Prayer Group in Zurich
April 6, 2014, SwitzerlandIn Zurich, during an initiative called “Yes to the Child,” a pro-life rally was held in which those assembled prayed the rosary and various speeches were given on issues involving the protection of life. The date and location of the rally had not been publically announced, but near the end of the rally left-wing radicals attacked the group, throwing condoms at them. The police were quick to intervene. The spokesman at the rally initiated a prayer to pray for the attackers.
Insulting Graffiti at the Vatican on Right Side of Bernini’s Colonnade
April 5, 2014, ItalyBernini’s Colonnade, which had been restored in preparation for the canonisation of Popes John XXIII and John Paul II, was found to have graffiti on the right side with the words, in poor English, “Catalic is Hitler.” Implying that a Catholic is like Hitler.
Attempts to Secularise the Church of Saint Catherine in Brussels
April 4, 2014, BelgiumA petition has been started by the “Friends of Saint Catherine” in Brussels to counteract the imminent cession of the church of Saint Catherine to the city. To add insult to injury, because the church is commercially very strategically placed, the state wishes to turn this place of worship into a place for selling fruits and vegetables even against the wishes of the locals.
Religious Statues Broken in the District of Linz-Land
April 3, 2014, AustriaTwo saint statues were damaged between Friday, March 28th and Thursday, April 3rd. The statues had been located in a niche in front of the church of Hofkirchen im Traunkreis in the district of Linz-Land. The amount of damages was not officially known. The police have undertaken an investigation and are requesting leads in order to find the culprit(s).
Catholic Church in Târgu Mureş Targeted for Graffiti
April 2, 2014, RomaniaA Catholic church in Târgu Mureş, Romania, was found with the graffitied image of a swastika cross and suspicions lie with the extremist organisation called Noua Dreaptă (New Right).
Church in Havré Vandalised
April 1, 2014, BelgiumSt. Martin’s Church in Havré became again the victim of vandals who destroyed some of the area around the entrance, tearing off some slate from above the door.
Offensive Representation of the Last Supper on Cover of Music Album
April 1, 2014, InternationalThe musical group Steel Panther released its new album “All You can Eat” on April 1, 2014. The cover portrays a group of band members in a Last Supper scene among whom are scantily clad women in provocative postures. Underneath is the name of the album, “All You Can Eat”.
Local Priest in Trèbes Reproached for Wearing a Cross
April 1, 2014, FranceOne of the officials working at a voting station in the town of Trèbes, France, reproached the local parish priest for wearing a cross around his neck saying that it was too ostensible a sign of religious adherence.
Catholic Private School Graffitied in Périgueux
March 31, 2014, FranceThe Catholic private school Saint-Jean de Périgueux was graffitied with the phrase, “Quand je serai grande, je serai gouine” which means, “When I grow up, I’m going to be a dyke” (a crude way of saying lesbian).
Church in Mayenne Robbed of Hosts
March 31, 2014, FranceThe Church of Saint Peter in the community of Bouchamps-lès-Craon in Mayenne was robbed of its ciborium and the Eucharistic hosts inside. The police arrived on scene on Sunday, the 6th of April, and the bishop of Angers intends to celebrate a mass of reparation.
Four Churches in Vienna Heavily Vandalised
March 29, 2014, AustriaOn Saturday, March 29th, St. Stephen’s cathedral, the parish church of Breitenfeld (Josefstadt), the parish church of Neuottakring (Ottakring) as well as the Lazaristenkirche (Neubau) were vandalised. The spokesperson of the diocese said the attacks have never before been so hard.
Film Discussing the Problem of Pornography and Prostitution Canceled in Tours
March 29, 2014, FranceThe Cinéma National Populaire (CNP) canceled a showing and debate with the Swiss producer Philippe Decourroux on his DVD "Prostitution et pornographie, enjeu de société?" Which translated means, “Prostitution and Pornography, Concern of Society?” The producer denounced this move as anti-Christian. According to Decourroux, the CNP thought the film to be an attempt of Christian “proselytism”.
Glowing Mary Statue Elicits Negative Response
March 28, 2014, BelgiumA statue of the Virgin Mary belonging to a couple in Jalhay, Belgium began to glow at night and caused such a stir at the couple’s house that Catholic authorities suggested moving it to a church. Not everyone, however, reacted so positively. On the Facebook page of the Radio Télévision Belge Francophone (RTBF) show "C’est vous qui le dites", comments were made such as “Let’s crucify them…that will get rid of their desire to propagate such tricks.”
Church of Sacré-Cœur in Lourdes Attacked
March 27, 2014, France“Robbers” entered the Church of Sacré-Cœur in Lourdes sometime during the night of March 27-28, 2014 and broke open the poor boxes. More importantly, they broke open the tabernacle and stole the ciborium with the consecrated hosts that it contained. The parish priest responded by organising a prayer session.
Archbishop of Cyprus Described As Homophobic And Racist
March 27, 2014, CyprusCyprus’ Archbishop Chrystostomos expressed his opinion about same-sex relationships at the Council of the Presidents of the Christian Orthodox Church held in Istanbul. He took a position against homosexuality by stating that governments demonstrated a „weakening of moral integrity“ by ensuring equal rights through civil partnership or equal marriage. A local NGO denounced his remarks „homophobic” and „racist”, not allowing for dialogue and respect for the archbishop's opinion.
Man Apprehended for Fifteen Acts of Vandalism in Morbihan
March 25, 2014, FranceA series of vandalisms in the region of Morbihan has finally been explained with the arrest of a 34-year-old man who admits to fifteen acts of vandalism since June 2013 including the destruction of religious symbols and several attempts at burning a chapel. He was identified by his DNA and now awaits trial, although, there is some question of his mental balance; apparently he spent some time in a psychiatric hospital.
Doctoral Student in the Netherlands Denied the Right to Thank God in His Thesis
March 25, 2014, NetherlandsDutch PhD student Jerke de Vries inserted a clause into his doctoral thesis in which he gave thanks to God. At the Wageningen University, religious statements are not allowed in theses unless they are the subject of research. Although De Vries’ thesis advisor was not so strict, the doctoral committee would not allow his thesis to pass unless he removed the phrase, leaving de Vries to cut out the page from over a hundred copies of his thesis which had already been printed.
Cemetery Desecrated in Trémuson
March 24, 2014, FranceA local resident saw two men desecrating tombs in the Trémuson graveyard. When the police arrived on scene, they affirmed that flower pots had been moved around and funeral objects broken. The two 27-year-olds were later apprehended and will face a tribunal.
Christian Demonstrations Violently Attacked by Left Wing Radicals in Baden-Württemberg and Cologne
March 23, 2014, GermanyA new governmental sex ed curriculum of Baden-Württemberg has caused outrage among Christian parents. Several manifestions suffered serious attacks by left wing activists which were later identified as LGBT activists. Eyewitnesses reported in shock to the Observatory.
Tabernacles in Churches Pouancé and Bouchamp-lès-Craon Robbed of Hosts
March 23, 2014, FranceAt the end of March and the beginning of April, two churches were vandalised in France and the consecrated hosts were robbed from the tabernacle. One was the church in Pouancé and the other that in Bouchamp-lès-Craon.
Perpetrators Urinate in Holy Water Vessels in Two Churches in Memmingen
March 22, 2014, GermanyUnknown perpetrators urinated into the holy water vessel in the Assumption church and in the St. Josef’s church in Memmingen on Saturday, March 22. They also meddled with different objects in both churches.
Sacré-Cœur in Paris Again Victim of Vandalsim
March 22, 2014, FranceThe Sacré-Cœur basilica in Paris, after having been marked with graffiti indicating anarchist origins, was again found graffitied within a few days of the previous vandalism.
Public Urinals Installed Against the Church of Saint Catherine in Brussels
March 20, 2014, BelgiumThe City of Brussels installed public urinals on an exterior wall of the church of Saint Catherine in Brussels. A petition has been started to remove them by those who consider it a disgraceful lack of regard for a place of holiness.
Montmartre Basilica of Sacré-Cœur in Paris Graffitied
March 18, 2014, FranceThe forecourt and pillars of the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur in Paris were found graffitied with phrases such as “Fire to the chapels,” “Neither God, nor master,” “Fuck tourism,” and “Down with all the authorities.” The last, along with the phrase “Solidarity Monica and Francisco,” could be an indication that the vandalism was committed by an anarchist group. Monica Caballero and Francisco Solar were two militants imprisoned in Spain after the attempted bombing on the Spanish basilica of El Pilar.
St. Peter’s Church in Pléhédel Vandalised
March 16, 2014, FranceA church in Pléhédel, Brittany, was vandalised on Sunday, March 16th. The candles were smashed into the carpet and fire damaged the carpet and the cloth tabernacle altar covering as well as the steps leading up to the altar. It is reported that some youths were spotted at the time.
Christian Claims he was Denied a Job at a Country House Hotel near Colchester on Account of His Faith
March 13, 2014, United KingdomGraphic designer Jamie Haxby was interviewed for a job at Prested Hall Hotel near Colchester in the United Kingdom. He says his interviewer, Celie Parker, asked him if he was Christian, to which he answered in the affirmative. On looking through his portfolio and seeing that he had done previous work with churches and Christian groups, she commented that she and other members of staff were atheists and that they could never work with a committed Christian. She is also reported to have apologized for wasting Haxby’s time.
Church in Brie-Comte-Robert Robbed of Consecrated Hosts
March 11, 2014, FranceUpon arriving at the church on a Monday morning, one of the priests in charge of serving the parish of Saint-Étienne discovered that the door to the chapel was open and the tabernacle had been robbed. The hosts that had been stolen were consecrated ones, considered by Catholics to be sacred. The tabernacle was the only thing robbed. Police rapidly intervened and dusted the area for fingerprints. The community reacted in a spiritual way, organising a prayer session.
Graffiti on Church of Saint-Sernin in Toulouse
March 11, 2014, FranceAnticlerical graffiti was found on the church of Saint-Sernin in Toulouse. One of the inscriptions read “Fuck the Church.”
Propaganda Film Offensive to Christians
March 11, 2014, FranceThe short propaganda film, “14 Millions de Cris”, produced by Liza Azuelos, speaks out against forced marriages of under aged children, but turns offensive when it uses the Christian milieu as its setting. Many Christians find it derogatory to portray Christians in this film as forcing their children into early matrimony. This might be more common in Muslim countries, but to place it in a Christian setting in France is an indication of discrimination.
Obscene Graffiti on the Basilica of Saint Nicholas in Nantes
March 9, 2014, FranceObscene graffiti was found on the church of Saint-Nicolas in Nantes, France. The graffiti, located near the entrance of the church, said “Jesus Fucked.” The media was silent on this subject.
European Femen Activist Rips Bible in Front of Texas State Capitol
March 8, 2014, InternationalUkrainian citizen, French resident, Inna Shevchenko stood outside the Texas state Capitol in Austin to protest abortion laws on March 8th, 2014. She had “Your Bible doesn’t control my vagina” written across her bare chest as she tore out pages of a Bible.
Desacration and Devastation Of The Holy Icons in Pogoni, North Epirus
March 1, 2014, GreeceUnknown vandals broke into the Chapel of the Mother of God in Pogoni of North Epirus and devastated and burned Holy Icons and other objects. The act shocked local faithful and priests.
Church in Rennes Target of Shaving Cream Graffiti
February 27, 2014, FranceThe church of Saint-Germain in Rennes was the target of vandals who “painted” the words “Raser l’Eglise” with shaving cream onto the exterior wall of the church. The translation of these words is either “Shave the church” or, alternately, “Demolish the church”. The same church had been the victim of vandalism at the beginning of January when its Nativity scene was burned.
Government Seems to Discriminate Against Religious Education
February 25, 2014, United KingdomThe failure of the government to provide bursaries for those wishing to teach Religious Education (RE) has been described as “rank discrimination” by a leading RE body. Childcare minister Elizabeth Truss MP confirmed this month that no bursaries would be offered for religious education teachers in training this year. This cut in the bursaries has made it increasingly difficult for those studying to teach RE.
Communist Candidate Wants to See Parish in Bordeaux Disappear
February 24, 2014, FranceVincent Maurin, a Communist candidate of the Left Front in the city of Bordeaux, not only opposed the opening of a Catholic School in a district of Bordeaux in December but in February the construction of a church in the same area also. A new election propaganda leaflet included a list of changes to be made in Bordeaux under Vincent Maurin, one item being the disappearance of the parish St. Eloi, which he described as a "stronghold of religious fundamentalism". The word "fundamentalism" is printed in red.
Cross Desecrated in Rennes
February 24, 2014, FranceA large cement monument of a cross was covered in graffiti during a left wing “Antifa” event on 8 February. It remained covered in graffiti for weeks despite services clearing up the city in preparation for another event. It seems that desecrated religious buildings and sites do not enjoy the same respect as other parts of the city.
Vandalism and Bulglary in Churches in Crete
February 23, 2014, GreeceThe churches of Saint Spyridon and Saint Paraskevi were profanated and devastated by unknown vandals. There was also an attempt to burn Christian symbols and object on the altar. Local faithful and priests were shocked and terrified.
Desecration of the Chapel of the Olympic Village in Grenoble
February 21, 2014, FranceIn the morning when a faithful arrived to prepare the religious services, he found damages to the chapel of the Olympic Village. Furthermore, the ciborium containing the consecrated hosts had been stolen. The intention of the perpetrator is not known.
Member of European Parliament Seeks Exclusion of Christianity
February 20, 2014, European Institutions (EU, ECHR, et.al.)Belgian socialist Member of the European Parliament, Veronique De Keyser called in an e-mail to all MEPs and all assistants for “general mobilisation against obscurantism”. With "Obscurantism" she seems to mean Christianity, as she continues to say: “A Europe which is open and respectful of all beliefs and philosophical convictions cannot be one that puts Christian roots to the forefront. This is not Europe! Europe is one of Enlightenment, a Europe of free thinking, a Europe of separation of state and church.”
Tabernacle in French Alsace Target of Break-in
February 19, 2014, FranceA chapel in the French city of Mulhouse was broken into, and it appears that the tabernacle was the intended target. Nothing was vandalised, but the lock on the tabernacle shows signs of an attempt to open it. The perpetrators did not succeed, however, the lock is now broken and must be replaced.
Fire in Church of Sainte-Marie in Le Boulou
February 18, 2014, FranceA fire broke out around 10 am in the church of Sainte-Marie Le Boulou. A large figure of Christ which was made of wood and plaster and installed in the entrance of the church caught on fire and was burning for hours. The fire department and police are investigating.
Hate Mail Received for Disagreeing with Same-Sex Marriage
February 12, 2014, IrelandBreda O’Brien, an Irish teacher, journalist and pro-life feminist has been receiving hate mail from people because of an article she wrote disagreeing with same-sex marriage and discussing homophobia and liberal intolerance.
Elderly Street Preacher Falsely Arrested and Assaulted by Police
February 11, 2014, United Kingdom73-year-old Bill Edwards was ordered by a police constable to stop preaching outside the Magistrates Court House in Banbury as some people in the building found his preaching “offensive”. He refused to move and was arrested and charged with assault and breach of peace. In the police station Mr Edwards was grabbed by six officers and pinned to the ground.
Pro-Choice Group Disrupts Catholic Liturgy in Palma
February 9, 2014, SpainA group of 30 young activists interrupted a Catholic service in the Church of Saint Miquel de Palma in Spain, shouting slogans in favour of abortion. They were protesting the government’s plans to change the abortion law, carrying a banner with the slogan "Rosaries out of our ovaries" and chanting "Abortion – free and legal."
Church Statue Vandalised in Beaumont-du-Périgord
February 8, 2014, FranceTwo cleaning ladies arrived at the church Sainte-Marie Bastide in Beaumont-du-Périgord, Dordogne, and were shocked to find the statue of Joan of Arc had been vandalised. The base of the statue which was about two meters high had been broken and the statue knocked over.
Catholic Church Told by UN Committee To Change Its Teaching
February 5, 2014, InternationalThe UN-Committee on the Rights of the Child has asked the Vatican to change its teaching on abortion and homosexuality and on changing the interpretation of a bible verse. The Vatican has responded calling the requests of the UN Committee an interference with Church doctrine and a violation of religious freedom.
Criminal Investigations Opened Against Cardinal For Mentioning Treatment Options for Homosexuals
February 5, 2014, SpainCardinal Fernando Sebastian of Málaga commented in an interview with the local newspaper SUR that homosexuality “can be normalised with treatment”. Consequently the Málaga Provincial Prosecutor's Office opened criminal investigations against him. His comment was understood to undermine Spanish legislation which protects the fundamental rights of dignity and non-discrimination in Articles 18 and 14 of the Constitution and therefore to constitute a "clear incitement to hatred and discrimination".
Aggressive Left-Wing Activists Interrupt Demonstration of Parents in Stuttgart
February 2, 2014, GermanyA protest of parents who were not happy with a new educational plan seeking to implement “sexual diversity education” had to end early due to massive opposition. Protesters were physically attacked and it was felt that the Police failed to protect the parents’ basic right of assembly.
Hate Incident Against Cardinal on Question of Abortion in Madrid
February 2, 2014, SpainWhen Cardinal Antonio Maria Rouco, Archbishop of Madrid and President of the Spanish bishops’ conference, was walking from his vehicle to enter the parish of Santos Justo y Pastor, on Palma street, Madrid, five Femen activists attacked him. With stained red underwear and naked chests they shouted “Abortion is sacred”. The Cardinal, escorted by priests managed to enter the parish but the shouting continued outside as they celebrated the Eucharist.
Mass in Catholic Cathedral in Stockholm Interrupted by Femen
January 30, 2014, SwedenThree Femen activists burst into the Catholic Cathedral of Stockholm, during Mass, just as the attendants were singing Salve Regina. The activists were bare-breasted and one had a sign reading: “Catholic Church out of my body” and written on her chest in Spanish, “Abortion is sacred.” Church staff managed to bring them under control. The Feminists told the press that they are not done with the Catholic Church and will continue their attacks.
Church Vandalised for the Third Time in January
January 29, 2014, FranceThe church of Our Lady of the Assumption in Montceau-les-Mines, France, was vandalised for the third time this month. Dozens of candles were broken and the crib was taken. Clay pots and trees and other items were broken and crushed.
Desecration and Vandalism of Church in Charleville-Mézières
January 29, 2014, FranceDozens of candles were burned and destroyed, three chairs were broken and urine left by vandals in the church of Saint-Remi in Charleville-Mézières. Cans of beer were also left on the floor, curses were written on the guestbook. Obscene drawings were scribbled into the book of prayers.
Serious Desecration of Church in Baden-Württemberg
January 27, 2014, GermanyOn the night of January 27th, a unknown perpetrator broke into the Catholic church, Saint Georges which is located in a district of the city of Freiburg in Breisgau. Using a hammer the perpetrator vandalised the church causing damaged which estimates more than 12,000 euro. The tabernacle was also vandalised and the chalice and consecrated hosts stolen.
Invaluable Relic of Pope John Paul II Stolen from Chapel in the Region of Abruzzo
January 26, 2014, ItalyThieves broke into the church of San Pietro della lenca in the Abruzzo region breaking the protective iron bars and forcing their way in through a window. They left the collection box but took a crucifix and invaluable relic which contains a piece of gauze once soaked in the blood of the late Pope John Paul II.
Chapel Vandalised in Schlierbach, Alsace
January 24, 2014, FranceVandals attacked the Chapel of Our Lady of the Valley of Tears in Schlierbach and damaged the polygonal roof of the small sanctuary. They ripped off and stole copper plates and other pieces of metal.
Church in Haute-Saône Targeted by Vandalism
January 17, 2014, FranceThe Notre-Dame-du-Haut in Haute-Saône, was damaged by vandals who broke a painted window into thousands of pieces. They also damaged the inside of the chapel.
Vandalism at Church of St. Francis in Prato
January 17, 2014, ItalyVandals destroyed a marble font in the courtyard and targeted the Cathedral, where they tried to destroy the century pulpit which is located to the left of the main altar as well as the church of San Pier Fiorelli where a statue depicting St. Joseph was destroyed.
Church in Historic District of Prato in Tuscany Vandalised
January 17, 2014, ItalyA stranger entered the San Pietro church in Prato, Tuscany, and broke a basin and tried unsuccessfully to break another one before fleeing.
Cemetery Desecrated in Bavaria
January 15, 2014, GermanyA cemetery in the district of Pölting in the city of Neumarkt was desecrated. Crosses of several graves were pulled up and put back in upside down. Police suspect that this was done by young Satanists.
Scottish Secularists Want to Curb Churches’ Role in Education
January 14, 2014, United KingdomSecularists in Scotland have called on the government to remove religious representatives from education committees. Under the Local Government Act 1973, local authority education committees are required to appoint three representatives from religious organisations and the Edinburgh Secular Society wants to see a change in the law.
Church Vandalised in Gensac
January 14, 2014, FranceThe windows of the church of Our Lady in Gensac, France, were reported to have been vandalised.
Church of Saint-Georges in French Guyane Repeatedly Desecrated and Vandalised
January 14, 2014, FranceIntruders entered the church of Saint-Georges through a window. They pulled down and destroyed a large statue of Christ on the cross and stole two electric fans. When the sisters came for Mass in the morning they were shocked at what they found. This is the second time this month that the church has been the victim of vandalism.
Midwife Lost Job Because of Her Views on Abortion
January 13, 2014, SwedenA Swedish midwife did not get a job she was promised because of her “wrong view” regarding abortion. The woman who worked at Highland Hospital in Eksjoe was promised summer jobs and other temporary positions after completing further training in January 2014. However, after explaining to the department manager that she was not able to perform abortions because of her faith, she was told she was no longer welcome to take the jobs.
"Anonymous" Hacks Website of Archdiocese of Granada
January 13, 2014, SpainInternet activists "Anonymous,” known for protests against corruption, censorship and undermining the Catholic values, hacked the website of the Archdiocese of Granada.
Theft and Vandalism in Church in Palaia
January 12, 2014, ItalyThe parish church of Villa Saletta in Palaia was devastated by vandals who stole alms and damaged consecrated hosts. They also stole a fold chain that hung around the alter of Our Lady and a chalice from the tabernacle.
Deliberate Arson of a Chapel
January 10, 2014, FranceThe chapel of Aibre, France was found on fire. Police were called to the scene but the doors had already been damaged by the fire. They investigated and found bits of wood used to start the fire as well as remains of a product used to spread the fire more quickly.
Graffiti on Walls of Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Yecla Murcia
January 9, 2014, SpainGraffiti threatening religious freedoms of Christians was spray painted on the walls of the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. The words, “Si no nos dejáis abortar, no os dejaremos rezar” (“If you do not let us have an abortion, we will not let you pray”) were written there in addition to different anarchists symbols.
Street Preacher Arrested for Mentioning "Sexual Sin" in Scotland
January 8, 2014, United KingdomTony Miano, a street preacher addressing lunchtime shoppers at Dundee High Street, Scotland, was arrested and held in custody to appear before the Dundee Sheriff Court. He was talking about “sexual sin” including “adultery, promiscuity and homosexual practice”. A woman called the police, who on arrival snatched away the camera of a friend who was filming the preaching and arrested the street preacher.
Church's Main Gate Covered with Graffiti
January 6, 2014, FranceObscene, Satanist and anti-Christian graffiti was spray painted on the church door of Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul in Haute Garonne. The police were notified and collected evidence.
Offensive Behaviour of Homosexual Couples During Religious Celebration
January 6, 2014, GreeceDuring the celebration of Epiphany of Christ in Piraeus, a number of homosexual couples started to kissing each other in oscentatious way, trying to show their protest against Christian morals and teaching. Local faithful and prayers declared themselves offended.
Muslims Distribute Intolerant Writings in Basel
January 4, 2014, SwitzerlandEvery first Saturday of the month, five Muslim men from the Islamic Central Bureau of Switzerland (IZRS) distribute Muslim texts at the Claraplatz in Central Basel. One of the books they distribute, the „Book of Simplified Comment“, suggests to murder Christians and Jews, and to take their money.
Desecration of Altar of Church in Paris
January 4, 2014, FranceA man approached the altar of Saint-Odile Church in Paris and through violent acts desecrated and destroyed the candle holder and hammered down the statue of St Therese of the Child Jesus. He also opened the baptismal fountain and spilled the water used for baptisms. The police were called but they arrived only an hour later after the man had already walked away. Witnesses said that the tall young man looked very determined in his actions.
Four Churches in Spain Targeted with Graffiti and Vandalism
January 3, 2014, SpainFour Catholic churches in Malaga, Spain, were targeted with pro-abortion graffiti and vandalism. Some of the slogans read: “Saca tus rosarios de mis ovarios” (Get your rosaries off my ovaries) and “Maria queria abortar” (Mary wanted to abort) as well as "Iglesia = Dictatura" (Church = dictatorship). Vandals also dropped balloons containing red paint, into a church, which burst and damaged a ceramic alter piece depicting the Virgin Mary.
Nativity Scene in Foligno Targeted by Vandals
January 3, 2014, ItalyThe crib of the Nativity of St. Felicianetto was set on fire. Already several days before, the figure of Baby Jesus had been stolen.
Nativity Scene Vandalised in Hainaut
January 1, 2014, BelgiumA nativity scene set up in front of a church in Belgium was vandalised overnight. A shepherd was dismembered, the figure representing baby Jesus was lying on the ground and Mary and Joseph had be taken away. A fence which had been erected to protect the scene did not deter the vandals.
Member of Parliament Impersonated a Drunk Priest
January 1, 2014, GreeceA member of the Greek Parliament, Vangelis Diamantopoulos, dressed and acted as a drunk priest conducting a burial ceremony for the EU-IMF memorandum at New Year’s carnival in Northern Greece. Archbishop Ieronymos claimed that he was hurt by this behaviour and described the act as foolish.
Crib Scene Destroyed in Badia
December 31, 2013, ItalyA crib scene in the village of Badia was destroyed and heads of several of the figures were severed off.
Graffiti on Church of St. Augustine in Trani
December 30, 2013, ItalyThe front of the Church of St. Augustine in Trani was splattered with paint and the stone lion in the courtyard of the church was spray painted.
Tabernacle Stolen at the Hermitage of Pasico Torre Pacheco
December 30, 2013, SpainThe Hermitage had to close the doors of its church from December 30th, 2013 to January 11th 2014, due to a theft of the tabernacle on the 30th of December.
Nativity Scene in Church in Hungary Vandalised
December 29, 2013, HungaryVandals destroyed figures of the nativity scene from a Lutheran Church located in Szentendre, Hungary, 20 km north of Budapest. In November, a cross was vandalised in the same church.
Series of Anti-Christian Vandalism in North Westfalen
December 28, 2013, GermanyMore than forty acts of vandalism against Christian sites were recorded between September and December around Ibbenbüren, Saerbeck, Hörstel, Hopsten, Mettingen, Tecklenburg and Rheine. Especially large outdoor crosses and statues were targeted. Police think it is likely that the perpetrator is the same in all the cases.
Vandalism of Nursery of Church in Rennes
December 27, 2013, FranceThe nursery of Saint-Germain Rennes was set on fire causing damage to the Church. It was confirmed that the fire was not caused by electric problems.
Nativity Scene Vandalised in Paris
December 27, 2013, FranceThe statues of Mary and Joseph were destroyed in St. Séverin Church nativity scene in Paris.
Nativity Scene in Urbino Set on Fire
December 27, 2013, ItalyA nativity scene which was part of the "streets of cribs of Urbino" was set on fire. The fire caused immediate devastation and there seemed to be multiple ignition points. In addition, the fire destroyed a lamp post and caused pieces of the entrance ceiling to fall down.
Figure of Baby Jesus Destroyed in Ceranova
December 27, 2013, ItalyThe figure of Baby Jesus in the manger which was part of a nativity scene in Ceranova was destroyed. The head and the fingers of one hand were broken off. The pieces of the manger and the figures of Mary and Joseph were carried inside to prevent further vandalism.
Burning Tires in Front of the Church of Misericordia in Reus
December 26, 2013, SpainTires were set on fire in front of the church of Misericordia in Reus, but, before the fire could spread further, neighbors telephoned the fire department and then extinguished the fire themselves, and the damage was contained. The front door of the church was slightly damaged, and the façade was affected by the smoke, but otherwise the sanctuary was unharmed.
Naked Woman on Cologne's Cathedral Main Altar During Christmas Services
December 25, 2013, Germany20-year-old Femen activist Josephine Witt jumped onto the altar of Cologne’s Catholic cathedral during Christmas services on December 25th. Her upper body naked and “I am God“ was written on her chest. Security staff removed her, and Cardinal Meisner continued the liturgy. Many people commented critically, saying that Ms Witt would have had other possibilities of voicing her opposition to the Church.