All cases
18th century crucifix stolen on Christmas Eve
December 24, 2023, SwedenOn Christmas Eve, someone stole the 18th-century crucifix from St Nokolai's Church in Sweden. The thefts must have happened during the Christmas Eve celebration.
Repeated Thefts of Nativity Figures in Ancenis
December 24, 2023, FranceRepeated thefts of figures from nativity scenes have been reported at Ancenis church.
Arrests after Prevented Potential Attack on Cathedral
December 23, 2023, AustriaAustria has increased security measures over Christmas due to threats of Islamist terror attacks. The suspected targets should have been Vienna's Cathedral and a few other churches. The Tajik man arrested in Germany was allegedly part of a terrorist group discovered in Vienna. The police is suspecting an Islamist terrorist motive and a connection to the ISIS-K (Islamic State - Khorasan Province). Although the suspect fled, a few other suspected terrorists, namely a man from Chechnya, another Tajik man and a woman from Turkey, were arrested before Christmas. The fugitive was arrested in Germany and is awaiting extradition to Austria.
Church Defaced with Paint just before Christmas
December 23, 2023, PolandOn December 23, three juvenile residents vandalised a church in Gostynin, Poland. The walls of the church was spray painted in blue. The tags show insults and possible slogans related to Catholicism. A police investigation was launched and the vandals were identified thanks to the city surveillance.
Statue from Nativity Scene Stolen and Church Damaged Before Christmas
December 23, 2023, ItalyOn the 23rd of December, it was reported that a statuette of the nativity scene in the church of Valdagno was stolen. Now, the crib will be secured behind bars. The thieves stole the statue of a priest holding a monstrance and by doing so they also damaged the door, some pews and the steps to the entrance door, where another statue was ripped off. The police were notified.
Nativity scene figures stolen and damaged
December 23, 2023, GermanyBetween December 23 and 30, three figures were stolen from the nativity scene in St Anthony's Church in Amberg, Germany. In addition, a fourth figure was completely smashed. The police are asking anyone with information to contact them.
Desecration of La Piarre Church
December 23, 2023, FranceAccording to the local diocese, the parish church of La Piarre has been desecrated with the theft of a chalice and the desecration of consecrated hosts.
School eliminates Jesus from Christmas play
December 21, 2023, ItalyA primary school in Agna, Padua, decided to change its Christmas play by removing Christian references, including the name of Jesus, replaced by Cùcù, and the nativity scene. Teachers said they made the decision to avoid discontent among families of different faiths, but it offended Catholic parents. The play was changed without the parents' knowledge. Some families decided not to send their children to class in protest.
Sculptures Stolen From Church in Rietavas
December 21, 2023, LithuaniaOn November 20, three wooden sculptures, included in the register of cultural values, disappeared from the church in Rietavas, Lithuania.
Religious statues and car of priest vandalised
December 21, 2023, BelarusOn December 21, an unknown perpetrator wrought havoc on the grounds of the church of St. Michael the Archangel in Smorgon. Several religious statues and the priest's car were damaged. The man shouted that the Catholic Church should "get out of here".
Vicious graffiti on church in Budel
December 21, 2023, NetherlandsOn December 21, slogans attacking the asylum seekers' centre, a swastika and other symbols were found on the walls of the Church of Our Lady in Budel, North Brabant. On the side wall of the church building, texts were found such as 'azc weg' ('close down the asylum seekers' center'), 'own people first' and 'f*ck the police'. There is also a middle finger on one of the entrances to the church and a picture of the Prophet Muhammad on the church building.
Armenian Church of St. Mary in Sweden Vandalized Before Christmas
December 20, 2023, SwedenSt. Mary’s Armenian Apostolic Church in Södertälje, Sweden, was the target of a raid on 20 December. Intruders gained access through a window leading to a room used for various ceremonies and stole valuable items with great sentimental value for the community. “We didn’t expect this. We are facing an empty altar before Christmas,” said Alexander Sharoyan, the church’s representative. A police investigation has been initiated.
Nativity scene destroyed by fire
December 20, 2023, ItalyOn December 20, a fire destroyed the nativity scene in the parish church of Brentonico, Rome. A woman raised the alarm when she saw the church was completely filled with smoke. The parish priest, Don Daniele Laghi, suspects arson, as the nativity scene had already vandalised a few weeks ago. The police have opened an investigation to establish the facts.
Vandalism of Graveyard of Saint Eunan's Cathedral
December 19, 2023, IrelandBetween December 19 and January 3, unknown persons broke and pulled down several headstones in the graveyard of Saint Eunan's Cathedral in Raphoe, Ireland. Some were broken, other stones were pulled out of the ground. Local police are appealing to anyone with information about the vandalism.
Crosses will not be removed from Bavaria's state buildings
December 19, 2023, GermanyA German High Court rejected the claim that the presence of a cross infringes on the religious freedom of the plaintiffs. On December 19, the Federal Administrative Court of Leipzig dismissed a lawsuit against a Bavarian decree (Kreuzerlass) from 2018, which required the display of crosses in public institutions "as an expression of the historical and cultural identity of Bavaria".
Threats against Church in Geesthacht
December 19, 2023, GermanyAccording to the local police, St. Salvatoris parish church in Geesthacht, Germany, received a threatening letter. Due to security concerns, the parish had to cancel several events, including the nativity play. The Christmas church service is going to take place with police protection and restrictions.
Vandalism to Bethlehem Church Construction Site in Clamecy
December 19, 2023, FranceThe construction site of Bethlehem Church in Clamecy was broken into and vandalised on December 19, 2023. On site, construction equipment was manipulated, diesel siphoned off and some of the keys to the equipment were stolen.
Repeated theft of Jesus figure from nativity scene
December 19, 2023, SpainOn December 19, the Jesus figure from the nativity scene in Benimaclet, Valencia, was stolen again, only ten days after it had previously been stolen and replaced by a caricature. This time, the vandals did not only steal the Jesus figure, but have also painted the word "eviction" on the wooden planks protecting the crib.
Woman forced off public street by police while praying
December 18, 2023, United KingdomLivia Tossici-Bolt, a 63-year old charitable volunteer, has filed a complaint against officers who forced her off a public street where she was peacefully praying and holding a sign. While the officers accused her of breaching the local "buffer zone" legislation, Mrs. Tossici-Bolt was actually not standing within the zone, as video evidence confirms.
Nativity Scene Figures Beheaded
December 17, 2023, GermanyIn the German town Rüsselsheim all figures of a nativity scene, including the depiction of baby Jesus, Joseph, Mary and the three Wise Men, have been beheaded in an act of vandalism. The damage was discovered on December 17. According to a report, the nativity scene, which was part of a Christmas marked, looked like a battlefield and the figure of Jesus in the manger was found beneath the rubble.
Pectoral Cross of Cardinal Wyszynski Stolen From Pilgrimage Church
December 17, 2023, GermanyA pectoral cross donated to the Church in Ortenburg, Germany, by Cardinal Wyszynski was stolen. Unknown perpetrators brok into the case in which it was stored to steal the cross.
Host and sacred objects stolen from the Holy Family Church
December 17, 2023, PolandOn December 17, the tabernacle of the Holy Family Church in Łódź was broken into and the host as well as monstrances, chalices, cans, and other items were stolen.
Cumbrae Church's Nativity Scence Vandalised
December 16, 2023, United KingdomA Christmas nativity scene at Cumbrae Parish Church was vandalised in Millport. Among other damages, the figure of Mary had been beheaded. The church community is shocked about the incident.
Former auxiliary bishop assaulted and seriously injured
December 16, 2023, GermanyThe former Auxiliary Bishop of Hildesheim, Nikolaus Schwerdtfeger, has been the victim of an attack in his home and is being treated in intensive care.
St Anna church remains closed indefinitely after vandalism and threats
December 15, 2023, GermanySt Anne's Church in Stendal has been closed since December due to vandalism and intimidation. As reported on 28 February the church is still not receiving regular visitors and is only open for worship service.
France refuses Iranian Christian convert asylum
December 15, 2023, FranceAta Fathimaharlooei, an Iranian convert to Christianity, has received a deportation order after his asylum application has been refused in France. A return, however, would be very dangerous as he is threatened with death for apostasy in Iran.
Makovecs Square nativity scene destroyed
December 14, 2023, HungaryOn December 14, a nativity scene displayed on the main square in Markó, Hungary, was destroyed by unknown persons. The nativity scene, which was awarded the most beautiful in the country in 2020, was found with all the human figures decapitated, while the animal figures were untouched. The incident was reported to the police. Some of the figures appear to have been damaged beyond repair.
Stained glass window of St. Martinus Church damaged
December 14, 2023, GermanyOn December 14, damage was caused to St. Martinus Church in Böttingen. An unknown perpetrator smashed the stained glass window integrated into the sacristy's concrete glass window, causing damage amounting to around 1,000 euros. The police are investigating.
Three Christians Sentenced to Jail for Conscientious Objection to Military Service
December 13, 2023, UkraineIn the past months, three Protestant Christians have been sentenced to jail for conscientious objections to military service on religious grounds in Ukraine. One of them, Dmytro Zelensky, is imprisoned after his acquittal was reversed by the Ternopil Appeal Court in August 2023. He has been sentenced to three years in prison and is currently preparing his appeal to the High Court.
Church Door vandalised
December 13, 2023, GermanyOn December 13, the door handle of a church in Marburg was ripped off. The incident has been reported to the police. The damage is estimated at several hundreds of euros.
Church in Piacenza vandalised
December 11, 2023, ItalyOn December 11, the Santa Rita church in Piacenza, Italy, was vandalised, resulting in damages of several thousand euros. Among other things, a cross was destroyed and money was stolen from the offering box.
Graffiti on Church in Bareggio, Nativity scene vandalised
December 11, 2023, ItalyIn Bareggio, the church of the Brughiera has been vandalised by graffiti on the outside walls. The incident came right after a nativity scene on the square of Bareggio was attacked. One figure was destroyed, another broken.
French Minister announces dissolution of Catholic movement 'Academia Christiana'
December 10, 2023, FranceThe French Minister of Interior, Gérald Darmanin, announced on 10 December that he would present in “the coming weeks” to the Council of Ministers the dissolution of Academia Christiana, a youth-movement of traditional Catholics which since its foundation in 2013 has brought together thousands of young Christians in its training courses and summer schools. According to the minister, the decision was made on the fact that the movement is "inciting hatred and discrimination." Academia Christiana has already announced that they will challenge then ban in court.
Vandalised nativity scene in front of the church of Magenta
December 10, 2023, ItalyOn December 10, the nativity scene on the churchyard of San Rocco in Magenta, Italy was vandalised. Unknown perpetrators cut off the head and arms and legs of the statue of the child Jesus and damaged that of Mary.
Bomb Threat against Austrian Heiligenkreuz Abbey
December 9, 2023, AustriaOn December 9, the Austrian Heiligenkreuz Abbey in the district Baden received a bomb threat. The threatening call came shortly before 5 pm. The police confirmed that the threat had an Islamist motive. According to media reports, the aggressor said on the phone: "Convert to Islam, or I will bomb you." Special police forces promptly searched the public areas of the monastery, but no suspicious items were found on the premises.
Figure of Jesus stolen from Nativity Scene and replaced with caricature
December 9, 2023, SpainOn December 12, a figure of the Child Jesus was stolen from a life-sized nativity scene at Benimaclet square, Valencia, just a few hours after the nativity scene was placed there. The unknown perpetrators furthermore replaced the figure with a caricature of Jesus.
Vandalism of Nativity Scene in Tavarede
December 9, 2023, PortugalOn the night of 9 December, a major act of vandalism took place in Tavarede, including the destruction of a nativity scene and a Christmas tree in Tavarede's church square. Other Christmas decorations in public streets were also vandalised. There was also an attempted break-in at a nearby mortuary, which the mayor believes may have been used to gain access to the church to steal and cause further damage.
Altar Cross stolen from Chapel in Mulfingen
December 8, 2023, GermanyOn December 8, the altar cross, worth several hundred Euros, was stolen from the St. Anna Chapel in Mulfingen, Germany. Local Police started an investigation.
Climate activists vandalise Venice's San Marco Basilica
December 7, 2023, ItalyOn 7 December, six climate activists defaced St Mark's Basilica of Venice by spraying Nesquik with fire extinguishers on the right side facade and pouring mud on the columns. They then unfurled a banner and a placard with the photos of twelve climate activists who were detained for three days after a roadblock in Fiumicino.
Russian authorities ban Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church in occupied Zaporizhzhia region
December 7, 2023, UkraineThe Russian military-civilian administration in the occupied Zaporizhzhia oblast of Ukraine issued an order banning the activities of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (UGCC), as well as the Knights of Columbus and Caritas organizations engaged in social service in the occupied territory. All movable and immovable property and land plots of the UGCC will also be seized. The Information Department of the UGCC reports they just become aware of this on December 7, although the document dates December 26, 2022.
Arson destroyed Bethlehem Chruch in Rotterdam
December 6, 2023, NetherlandsOn the evening of December 6, a fire broke out in the Bethlehemkerk church building located on Oranjestraat, Rotterdam. The flames quickly spread to the roof, causing it to collapse. The church was almost completely destroyed by the fire. The fire department arrived promptly and was able to prevent the fire from spreading any further. As a precautionary measure, the surrounding houses were temporarily evacuated.
Nativity Scene vandalised
December 6, 2023, PolandOn the night of December 6, 2023, the nativity scene next to the Church of St. Nicholas on the market square in Stary Fordon in Bydgoszcz was vandalised. Three young men recorded on city surveillance destroyed, among other things, the wooden walls, floor, gates and hinges of the Nativity scene.
Woman breaks pew in Nice church shouting ‘Allah Akbar’
December 6, 2023, FranceAccording to local reports, a Tunisian woman, Aïcha B., broke a pew in the Gesù church in Nice on December 6, shouting ‘Allah Akbar’. She was arrested and interned.
St. Mary's Church Vandalized with anti-Christian Graffiti in Cologne
December 5, 2023, GermanyAt the beginning of December, for example, the pilgrimage church of St Mary in Kupfergasse in Cologne was the victim of an attack in which the perpetrators left eclectic messages on the walls of the chapel. The smearing included writings such as "666" and "Allah Akbar", most probably non of these related to genuine Satanism or Islamism. However, the use of these slogans and the fact that the perpetrators defaced the chapel walls point to a strong anti-Christian motive.
Door of Church damaged in Greiz
December 5, 2023, GermanyOn December 5, the door of a church in Greiz, Germany was partly destroyed, resulting in damages of at least a thousand euros. Police started an investigation.
Church windows vandalised
December 5, 2023, ItalyThree teenagers, aged between 15 and 17, were caught by the police, after video footage showed them throwing rocks at windows of a church in Arzignano, Italy. The damages amount to more than 2500 euros.
Thirty statues stolen from nativity scene in Tarent, Italy
December 4, 2023, ItalyThirty statues from a nativity scene, worth several hundred Euros, were stolen from the Madonna delle Grazie church in Tarnet, Italy. The thieves also tried to steal the tabernacle but failed to do so. Police started an investigation.
Climate Activists interrupt Mass in Turin
December 3, 2023, ItalyOn Sunday, December 3, a Mass held by Archbishop Roberto Repole was disrupted by climate activists. The protestors from the climate activist group "Extinction Rebellion" disrupted the church service in Turin Cathedral. During the Mass, the activists stood up one at a time, walked to the front, positioned themselves in front of the altar and started to read aloud passages from Pope Francis' "Laudato Si" and "Laudate Deum," both of which discuss climate change. The Archbishop of Turin said: "I am sorry that they decided to take the floor... without first wanting to talk to me and ask if they could intervene... I would have replied that at Mass we often pray for peace... but the Eucharistic celebration is not a suitable time to host public interventions." The Archbishop said that he initially let them speak before asking them to end so they could continue the celebration of the Mass.
Protestant Church in Annweiler Ransacked
December 2, 2023, GermanyBetween the morning of December 1 and the morning of December 2, unknown perpetrators broke into a Protestant church in Annweiler. The individuals trashed a room inside the church, but did not steal anything. The damage is estimated to cost about 500 euros. Police are still investigating the incident.
Priest's car set on fire in Carapelle
December 2, 2023, ItalyThe car of Don Claudio Barboni, the parish priest of the Church of the Blessed Mary Virgin of the Rosary in Carapelle, was demolished in a fire the night of December 2. The priest said he noticed the fire from his window at 2 in the morning. The car was parked in front of the rectory in Vico Capua.
Theft and Vandalism at Church in Casale
December 2, 2023, ItalyWithin one week a church in Casale, Itlay, became both the target of theft and vandalism.
Woman Arrested after Rosary Prayer banned in Madrid
December 1, 2023, SpainOn November 27, a woman was arrested in Madrid for praying the rosary on the streets. This comes after the Government Delegation banned the public prayer of the rosary that has been taking place in front of the headquarters of the Spanish Socialist Party (PSOE) during the ongoing anti-government protests.
Nativity scene destroyed by two British tourists in Spain
December 1, 2023, SpainDecember 1, two British tourists were caught in the act of vandalising the Jerez nativity scene in Spain. The Christ Child was the most damaged figure and had to be replaced by another. The two men were also mocking Christian prayer after they were caught. The authorities have opened an investigation against the two British tourists for vandalism.
Cross Vandalized in Church in Toulouse
November 30, 2023, FranceOn November 30 around 10 AM it was discovered that the Aucamville town church in Toulouse was vandalized. A cross was severely damaged, a vase was broken and the pieces were left on the ground. Two vandals were identified and it was discovered they were intoxicated while performing the acts of vandalism.
Sacred Objects stolen from Church in Guttaring
November 30, 2023, AustriaOn the night of November 20, unknown perpetrators broke into the pilgrimage church in Guttaring. They stole gold crowns, gold and silver chains that were connected to a picture of Mary. Furthermore, the locked altar area was broken into and religious objects were stolen from the altar. The cost of the damage is unknown and the police are investigating the situation further.
UPDATE: ECHR Dismisses Case of Host Desecration in Spain
November 30, 2023, SpainBack in 2018, the Spanish Association of Christian Lawyers lodged an application with the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) with the help of the European Centre for Law and Justice (ECLJ), following the theft and host desecration by the “artist” Abel Azcona. Now, the ECHR has declared the application inadmissible.
ECJ rules Public Administrations can ban Religious Symbols at work
November 28, 2023, European Institutions (EU, ECHR, et.al.)A judgment by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) from November 28 ruled that a public administration's imposition of strict neutrality to establish a 'neutral administrative environment' by forbidding the use of visible religious symbols can be justified. The Court states that Member States have discretion in designing neutrality policies but must pursue these objectives consistently and reasonably. This concept of 'strict neutrality', which is seen as opposed to visible religious symbols, raises religious freedom concerns.
Statue of Infant Jesus Beheaded in St. Johann Church in Saarbrücken
November 27, 2023, GermanyOn November 27, unknown perpetrators vandalized the Basilica of St. John the Baptist in Saarbrücken. A statue of Infant Jesus has been beheaded and the statute of Mary, holding the infant, was also damaged. Later on, a 44-year-old woman was identified as the perpetrator.
Destruction of the shrine of Mary
November 27, 2023, PolandOn the night of 26 to 27 November 2023, unknown perpetrators vandalised the shrine of Mary in Postoliska, Poland. The vandals destroyed the entire body of the statue of Mary, leaving only the base.
Threats and Disturbance inside Vienna's Cathedral
November 26, 2023, AustriaOn November 26, a 29-year-old man from Syria disrupted the Sunday Mass in Vienna's St. Stephan Cathedral. According to media reports, he repeatedly disturbed the liturgy, jumped over the fence around the main alter and screamed loudly.
Church in Odenhausen vandalised
November 25, 2023, GermanyOn November 25, vandals damaged the downspouts and power cables of the parish church of Odenhausen, Germany. They also tore out headlights so that power cables hung open.
Altar Cross and money stolen from Church in Jülich
November 25, 2023, GermanyBetween November 25 and December 2, an altar cross and money from an offering box were stolen from the St. Martinus church in Jülich, Germany. The police started an investigation.
Statue of Mary Damaged and Cross Stolen from Church in Vienna
November 24, 2023, AustriaOn November 23, Keplerkirche St. Johann in Vienna was vandalized. Witnesses had seen a man who had allegedly tore a statue of the Madonna from an anchorage in the church and stole a wooden cross. Based on the witness statements and video surveillance footage, the police were able to identify the perpetrator. The 29-year-old Syrian man was found near the church and arrested. He will be charged with aggravated damage to property and theft. The stolen cross was returned to the church. The same perpetrator attacked the Viennese St. Stephan cathedral a few days later (see case from November 26, 2023).
Sacred Objects Stolen from Church in Nürnberg
November 24, 2023, GermanySacred objects worth over 1800 euros have disappeared from the St Jakob's Protestant Church in Nürnberg. The theft was noticed in autumn by a group of visitors, who realised that the angel statues, which were normally holding religious symbols in their hands, were now standing there empty-handed. The religious symbols which have been stolen are a Christ monogram, a cross and symbols of scourge, crown of thorns, hammer and nails.
Vandalism and theft in Syrian Orthodox church
November 23, 2023, SwedenIn the night of November 23, the Syrian Orthodox church in Tensta was burgled and vandalised. The police found break marks on a door and broken windows and that some objects had been stolen. On December 8, a suspect was arrested.
Bronze Crucifix Stolen from Church Altar
November 23, 2023, ItalyDuring a church service in the church of San Giorgio in Atzara a small bronze crucifix was stolen from the central altar. The object is small but is said to be of great affective value to the community.
Graves Vandalized and Crosses Destroyed in German Cemetery
November 23, 2023, GermanyOn November 23, the cemetery of Phillipsburg was found devastated. Unknown perpetrators vandalised grave decorations during the night. They tore out crosses, flower vases and figures. A wooden cross was found smashed on the ground.
Man Desecrates Altar by Having Intercourse and Filming Act
November 22, 2023, GermanyOn November 22, a legal procedure was started against a man from Rosenheim who had sexual intercourse with his wife near the altar of a church in Schechen and filmed the act. "In order to respect the religious feelings of the faithful, such a desecration must be remedied by a penitential ceremony in accordance with the liturgical rules," explained a spokesperson for the responsible archdiocese of Munich and Freising.
Keyboard Stolen from Church in Gögginen
November 21, 2023, GermanyAn electric piano has dissapeared from the Protestant Johannis Church in Gǒggingen. The police concluded that the piano must have been stolen between November 10 and November 21. The estimated value of the electric piano is around 5,000 euros. The police are still investigating the situation.
Church in Ichtershausen Vandalized and Robebed
November 20, 2023, GermanyA church in Klostergasse in Ichtershausen, Germany, was forcibly broken into and damaged. Several doors were broken open, rooms were searched and approximately 10,000 euros worth of property damage was caused. Multiple instruments were stolen as well. The crime occurred between November 17 at 3 PM and November 20 at 10:20 AM. The police are still investigating the incident.
Spain: Catholics and Christians Are the most targeted Religion, According to Latest Report
November 20, 2023, SpainThe Observatory for Religious Freedom and Freedom of Conscience (OLRC) in Spain collects, verifies and publishes attacks on religious freedom in the country. The 2023 report shows that attacks have increased in 2022 compared to 2021 by 6.67%, from a total of 195 to 208 cases. Their Annual Report shows that attacks on places of worship have increased by 40% and that 3 out of every 4 attacks have been against Catholics. The OLRC also documented 4 specific cases of violence against believers, all of them being against Catholics.
London City Missionaries attacked
November 20, 2023, United KingdomLondon City Mission leader Graham Miller and his wife were attacked on the streets of south-west London, where they regularly evangelise, after Mr Miller challenged some children for abusing a cafe manager near the railway station.
Ballymoney Church Subject of Arson Attack
November 19, 2023, IrelandThe door to Our Lady and St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Ballymoney was set on fire on the night of November 19. Police were notified shortly after 9:45 pm that the side door of the church was on fire. Officers attended to the fire and were able to extinguish it before significant damage was caused. The police are investigating the incident as a deliberate arson attack.
Basilica in Rouen Vandalised and Robbed
November 15, 2023, FranceThe Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur in Rouen was broken into on November 15. The parish priest, Father Geoffroy de la Tousche, said that a statue was broken, sacred vases were stolen, and the altar was severely damaged. This is not the first case of vandalism in Rouen, as gargoyles had been damaged last year. The priest said that the damage will cost tens of thousands of euros. The police are investigating but the perpetrator has not been found.
UPDATE: Dáil Éireann Passes Abortion 'Buffer Zone' Bill
November 15, 2023, IrelandThe lower house of the Irish Parliament has passed a bill in support of so-called 'buffer zones' around abortion clinics, which will now move to the upper house (Seanad) for consideration. The proposed Health (Termination of Pregnancy Services) / Safe Access Zones Bill criminalizes individuals attempting to offer advice or influence pregnant women within 100 meters of an abortion clinic. Repeat offenders could face a fine of €2,500 or up to six months in prison. Churches loced within these zones fear restrictions on church grounds under the propsed bill.
Man threatens priest to burn church
November 15, 2023, SpainNovember 15, a 45-year-old man threatened a parish priest and two other persons with assaulting them and burning down the church in Burgos. In addition, the individual made use of a wooden rod in a threatening way.
Sacred Objects Damaged and Stolen at Cathedral in Königslutter
November 14, 2023, GermanyUnknown perpetrators damaged an altar crucifix and stole a Jesus figure from the Imperial Cathedral in Königslutter on November 14. The individuals entered the cathedral via the main entrance, which was open, and went to the altar area. They removed the crucifix, moved it to a less visible area in the church, and severely damaged it. They also stole a figure of Jesus that was attached to it. The police are investigating the situation, and the perpetrators have not been caught.
Good News: Päivi Räsänen Found Not Guilty of 'Hate Speech' for Quoting the Bible
November 14, 2023, FinlandThe Finnish appeal court has unanimously upheld the 2022 acquittal and dismissed all charges against Finnish MP Päivi Räsänen and Bishop Juhana Pohjola who had been on trial for having publicly expressed their Christian beliefs. The ruling is considered to be a victory for freedom of religion and expression.
Scandiano Church Vandalized and Statue of Mary Beheaded
November 13, 2023, ItalyA man devastated the church of Santa Maria Assunta in Scandiano, causing thousands of euros worth of damage. He vandalized the walls, furniture, and statues, including breaking off the head of a statue of Mary. The individual destroyed sacred objects and broke open the tabernacle to throw the host on the ground. The police were able to identify the perpetrator. The 53-year-old from Modena was consequently reported for aggravated damage.
LGBT provocation campaign inside Greek Catholic churches in Lviv
November 12, 2023, Ukraine"We call on all gay couples to come to St Andrew's Church and kiss each other, thus reminding those who perform their rites there that they have no power to condemn and punish love." This is how Ukrainian LGBT activist Viktor Pylypenko called on social media for a provocation campaign against the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (UGCC) after the latter expressed indignation over a video clip that was filmed inside St Andrew's in Lviv in early November showing scenes of homosexual kissing.
Convert beaten up for 'frequenting the church of Christians'
November 12, 2023, ItalyA 28-year-old Tunisian Christian convert was beaten and robbed for 'attending Christian church'. According to media reports, the man was attacked on the evening of November 12, 2023, in the Ponte San Giovanni district of Perugia by some fellow countrymen, while he was walking with a friend. Now the police have issued three pre-trial detention orders for crimes committed with the aggravating circumstance of religious discrimination.
Priest receives online death threats
November 12, 2023, FranceA priest from the Church of Saint-Joseph in Valence, Drôme region, was threatened with death by an Internet user on the social network "Discord" on November 12.
Church in Leinach Defaced Again
November 11, 2023, GermanySt. Laurentius Church in Leinach was defaced for the second time over the weekend of November 11. The side of the church was smeared with silver paint, the slogan written on the wall is illegible. The material damage is estimated to cost 500 euros. About a year ago, unknown perpetrators defaced the steps of the church with black paint. The individuals responsible for either of these crimes have not been caught.
Man Threatens to Explode Church During Mass in Valmontone
November 10, 2023, ItalyAt the church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Piazza Pilozzi in Valmontone, a man entered with a gas cylinder and lighter, threatening to explode the church. The 35-year-old man from Romania insulted and threatened the parish priest, attempting to extort money from him. The police arrived and were able to detain the man. He was taken to a prison in Valletri.
Man Starts a Fire in Confessional of Church in Oropesa del Mar
November 10, 2023, SpainAn individual deliberately started a fire in a confessional at the parish of San Jaime in Oropesa del Mar. The fire was able to be put out and did not injure anyone. The Local Police of Oropesa del Mar were able to identify the man who started the fire and arrest him.
Offensive Graffiti vandalises Church Wall in Munich
November 8, 2023, GermanyOn November 8, a picture was posted on social media of an offensive writing in graffiti on the outside wall of St. Lukas Church in Munich. The writing read: "F*ck your God". Pastor Steve Kennedy Henkel said, "as a church in the city, we are used to vandalism; recently a stone was thrown through the church window after a funeral service." The pastor has replaced the first word of the graffiti, so that it now reads: "I love you! Your God." Pastor Henkel explained: "What would be more natural for us as Christians to respond to hatred with love?" It has not been reported if any police investigation has been launched following this incident.
Man Disrupts Mass shouting “Allah Akbar”
November 8, 2023, FranceOn Sunday, November 5, the mass celebrated at Saint-Éloi Church in Dunkirk was disrupted by an individual who shouted “ Allah Akbar ”. The man was shouting during the “Our Father” prayer and at the end of the mass.
Ethical Review of Euthanasia in Jersey Disregards 'Indirect Conscientious Objection'
November 7, 2023, United KingdomAn ethical review by medical law experts has been conducted in Jersey to assess the implications that the approval of euthanasia, "Assisted Dying" (AD), would have on the island. While noting the necessity of several limitations to euthanasia based on ethical issues, the experts stated that conscientious objection should not be granted to everyone, excluding people not directly involved in the death, such as receptionists or drivers.
£10,000 worth of damage through church vandalism
November 7, 2023, United KingdomAt around 4.30pm on Tuesday, November 7, the St Mary’s and All Saints Church in Beaconsfield was heavily vandalised. The damage is estimated at around £10,000.
Christian worker fired after refusing to work during church's Sunday service
November 5, 2023, United KingdomFormer employee of Sainsbury's Jacqueline Rendell is suing the supermarket chain for "unfair dismissal" alleging she was fired for refusing to work on Sunday mornings so she could attend Sunday services at church. She claims the supermarket chain fired her because she refused demands to work every Sunday morning.
Spanish Government Denies Religious Asylum to Chinese Christians
November 5, 2023, SpainSeveral Chinese Christians have been arriving in Spain since the end of October seeking religious asylum after being denied it in other countries. The lack of response from the Spanish government puts their physical integrity at risk if they are deported to China. Among them is a famous Chinese Catholic actress, Li Yan Li, who has said she would rather die than return to China.
Arson Attack on Church in Vado
November 4, 2023, ItalyA fire was started at the church of Santa Maria in Vado on November 4 at around 8:45 AM. It was reported that the perpetrator set fire to a tent set up in the churchyard. From there, the fire then spread to the front door of the church. People in the church noticed and notified the fire department, then used water to start putting out the fire. The firefighters arrived and finished putting out the fire. Smoke filled the interior of the church and an old notice board was destroyed. Police investigated the scene, and the vandal was reportedly caught on surveillance cameras and already identified.
Desecration and theft at Quirón hospital chapel
November 4, 2023, SpainThe chapel of the Quirón hospital in Torrevieja was desecrated and the tabernacle and chalice were stolen.
Monstrance Stolen from Church in Schophoven
November 3, 2023, GermanyA valuable monstrance, among other religious objects, was stolen from St. Barbara Church in Schophoven during the night of November 3. The mayor of Schophoven, Matthias Hahn, entered the church in the morning to find the tabernacle opened. Liturgical objects, including the monstrance, were stolen. Some of the items taken were a goblet spoon, a ciborium, and a drinking cup. A St. Barbara relic fell to the floor and was bent, but not taken. The sacristy door was also broken open, and the wall safe had been removed from the wall and broken into.
Bible Stolen from the Altar of the Church of Ķekava
November 2, 2023, LatviaOn November 4, the congregation of the Church of Ķekava announced on Facebook that an old Bible had been stolen from the church's altar. The Facebook post said that it could have been taken as early as November 2. The church community is trying to retrieve the Bible, and the thief has not been found.
Church tagged with graffiti: "Traitor Christian"
November 1, 2023, FranceOn November 1, 2023, the Saint-Fiacre church in Villers-lès-Nancy was sprayed with graffiti, reading "Traitor Christian". The tags are considered to have a connection with the Israel-Hamas war.
Repeated vandalism of the "White Virgin of Madrid"
October 31, 2023, SpainAccording to news reports from March 2024, a statue of Mary in Madrid has been repeatedly vandalised. After Halloween, the statue was found with satanic signs on its face.
Man Attacks People Praying outside Abortion Clinic
October 28, 2023, AustriaDuring the prayer initative "40 Days for Life" a man and a woman holding signs and praying outside an abortion clinic in Vienna were attacked by a man. The man snatched the signs, which displayed the picture of a baby, from them and violently broke the signs into pieces. He also took one of the signs and ran away with it.
Churches in Alessandria Desecrated
October 28, 2023, ItalyIn the afternoon of October 28, the Church of San Giovannino was desecrated. A young man entered the presbytery, climbed onto the alter to reach for the crucifix and threw it on the floor, breaking it into several pieces. After that, he removed a crucifix from the wall at the front of the church and broke it. The incident was filmed by security cameras, though the man had put out the candles in the church as to not be recognized.
Scottish MP says she left her party after being 'unwelcome as a Christian'
October 25, 2023, United KingdomScottish MP Dr Lisa Cameron shared on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour how she had felt marginalised in the Scottish National Party (SNP) because of her Christian faith and pressured to vote against her convictions. Now defected to the Conservative Party, Dr Cameron voted against the 2020 new abortion regime for Northern Ireland and disagreed with bills which sought to legalise assisted suicide in England and Wales.