In recent months, there has been a disturbing increase in attacks on Catholic churches across the United States and even at the Vatican. These incidents have raised concerns about the safety and security of religious institutions and the motivations behind such hostility.
Attacks in the United States
According to a report by the Family Research Council (FRC), there were **436 acts of hostility against churches in 2023**, more than double the number reported in 2022. These incidents included vandalism, arson, bomb threats, and gun-related incidents. The report highlighted that attacks on churches have been occurring in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Some notable incidents include:
- Vandalism at St. Nicholas of Tolentine Parish in Queens, New York: The Christmas crèche was attacked twice in one night.
- St. Columba Church in Brooklyn, New York: A stained-glass window and a cross were damaged.
- Fowler United Methodist Church in Annapolis, Maryland: Vandals caused over $100,000 in damages, ripping pages from Bibles and hymnals, and removing a Christian flag.
- At Holy Rosary Catholic Church in New Jersey, someone put human feces in the baptismal font.
The FRC report suggests that these attacks are part of a broader trend of growing hostility towards Christianity and core Christian beliefs. The report's author, Arielle Del Turco, noted that such acts of hostility can send a message that churches are not respected or welcomed in their communities.
Attacks at the Vatican
Even the Vatican has not been immune to these attacks. On February 7, 2025, a man of Romanian origin desecrated the main altar of St. Peter's Basilica by climbing on top of it and throwing six candelabras to the ground. He then began to remove the altar cloth before being detained by Vatican security. The man was later identified as having a serious mental disability and was placed at the disposal of Italian authorities.
This incident follows a similar event in June 2023, when another man climbed the high altar and undressed before being arrested. These repeated breaches of security at such a high-profile religious site have raised questions about the effectiveness of existing protective measures and the potential risks posed by individuals seeking attention or acting out due to mental distress.
Conclusion
The recent attacks on Catholic churches, both in the United States and at the Vatican, are deeply troubling. They highlight the need for increased security measures and a greater understanding of the motivations behind such hostility. It is essential for communities to come together to support and protect their places of worship, ensuring that they remain safe and welcoming for all.
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Virginia Catholic bishop says altar desecration is 'increasing global trend' | Fox News
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Man attacks high altar of St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican | Catholic News Agency
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