Vandalism and Arson Strike Medjugorje

Vandalism and Arson Strike Medjugorje: Desecration at a Global Pilgrimage Site

In the early hours of July 28, 2026, the quiet village of Medjugorje in Bosnia and Herzegovina—one of the most visited Catholic pilgrimage destinations in the world—was jolted by acts of vandalism and arson that damaged sacred images and an outdoor altar. Police responded to reports beginning around 4:30 a.m. local time. Statues of the Virgin Mary, known locally as Gospa or Our Lady, at key prayer sites were defaced with black paint and offensive graffiti. An outdoor altar behind St. James Church was set ablaze. The incidents occurred just days before the annual Mladifest youth festival, which typically draws tens of thousands of young pilgrims.

The parish of Medjugorje quickly condemned the damage, cleaned the sites, and kept the shrine open. It urged the faithful to respond with prayer, fasting, and forgiveness rather than anger. A suspect was arrested later that day. Investigators continue to examine the full circumstances and any motive.

This episode has drawn global attention because Medjugorje is not an ordinary village church. For more than four decades it has been associated with reported Marian apparitions that have drawn millions of visitors, sparked conversions, and generated both deep devotion and ongoing debate within the Catholic Church.

 What Happened Overnight

Police in the Čitluk area first received a report at approximately 4:30 a.m. that the statue of Our Lady on Podbrdo (Apparition Hill) had been damaged. The face, hands, and parts of the figure were covered in black paint. Offensive messages appeared on the pedestal and nearby surfaces, including the English phrase “Devil in a skirt,” the word “devil,” “Medjugorje is a deception,” and “Jesus only.” A banner in Polish named the six individuals associated with the reported apparitions—Ivanka, Mirjana, Milka, Vicka, Ivan, and Jakov—and accused them of deception, stating the writer had evidence. Additional markings, including a number and references, were left at the scene. Similar defacement occurred at the Blue Cross (Plavi križ) area, where statues were also painted black and the word “EVIL” appeared on a nearby stone.

Around 5:00 a.m., authorities learned of a fire at the outdoor altar behind St. James Church, a central gathering place for pilgrims. Surveillance footage showed a man approaching the recently renovated altar area. The fire was extinguished without spreading to the church itself, though material damage occurred. Local reports indicated the altar area required cleanup and repair.

By the afternoon of July 28, police had arrested a man in the Ljubuški area (specifically reported near Cerno) on suspicion of involvement. Official statements initially withheld full personal details pending identification procedures, describing him as a 31-year-old foreign national. Subsequent local and regional reporting identified him as Bartłomiej Włodzimierz Krakowiak (also referred to as Bartek), a Polish citizen from Warsaw. The Bosnia and Herzegovina state prosecutor’s office later indicated it would take over the investigation, given the nature of damage to religious sites. Cleanup began almost immediately; volunteers and parish staff restored the prayer spaces so that regular programs could continue. The shrine remained open to pilgrims.

The timing amplified the impact. The 37th International Youth Festival (Mladifest), themed around returning “to the source” and the school of the Madonna, was scheduled to begin August 1 and expected to attract more than 50,000 young people from around the world. Parish statements emphasized that prayer life would proceed normally and invited a response of conversion rather than retaliation.

 The Apparitions and the Shrine

Medjugorje is a small settlement in the Herzegovina region of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the parish of St. James administered by Franciscan friars of the Herzegovina Province, within the Diocese of Mostar-Duvno. In June 1981, then part of communist Yugoslavia, six local young people—ranging in age from about 10 to 16—reported seeing the Virgin Mary on Podbrdo hill above the hamlet of Bijakovići. The first reports came on June 24, the eve of the feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist. Ivanka Ivanković and Mirjana Dragičević described seeing a luminous figure; others soon joined. The group that became known as the visionaries includes Marija Pavlović-Lunetti, Ivan Dragičević, Vicka Ivanković-Mijatović, Jakov Čolo, Mirjana Dragičević-Soldo, and Ivanka Ivanković-Elez.

According to their accounts, the figure identified herself as the Queen of Peace and called for conversion, prayer, fasting, penance, and peace. Messages emphasized returning to God through the sacraments, reading Scripture, and living the Gospel. Some visionaries have reported ongoing experiences: daily apparitions for a few, monthly or annual for others. Over the decades, thousands of messages have been recorded and disseminated. The parish church of St. James, Apparition Hill (Podbrdo), Cross Mountain (Križevac), and the Blue Cross became focal points of pilgrimage. A large statue of Our Lady of Medjugorje stands on Podbrdo; outdoor altars and prayer spaces accommodate large crowds for Mass, Rosary, Adoration, and confessions.

The phenomenon emerged under a communist regime hostile to public religious expression. Local authorities initially pressured the young people and the Franciscan parish priest. Despite (or because of) restrictions, news spread. Pilgrims began arriving even during the difficult years of the 1990s Bosnian war. After the war, infrastructure grew: hotels, hostels, shops, and expanded church facilities. Estimates of total visitors since 1981 range into the tens of millions; annual figures have often exceeded one million in recent years. The site is frequently ranked among Europe’s major Marian pilgrimage destinations alongside Lourdes and Fatima.

Reported spiritual fruits include conversions, returns to the sacraments (especially Confession and Eucharist), vocations to priesthood and religious life, reconciliations in families, and deepened prayer. Many pilgrims speak of personal healing—physical, emotional, or spiritual. The shrine functions as a place of intense sacramental life rather than solely as a site tied to ongoing private revelations.

 Importance of Medjugorje

Medjugorje matters for several interlocking reasons. First, scale: few contemporary Catholic sites draw comparable numbers of international visitors year after year. Pilgrims come from Europe, the Americas, Asia, Africa, and beyond. Youth festivals such as Mladifest create large-scale gatherings focused on prayer and formation. Second, the consistent emphasis on core Christian practices—daily prayer, fasting, Confession, Eucharist, Scripture—has produced measurable pastoral results that Church authorities have repeatedly noted. Third, its location in a region scarred by ethnic and religious conflict gives the message of the Queen of Peace particular resonance. Calls for reconciliation and forgiveness have been highlighted by successive generations of visitors.

Economically, the pilgrimage economy transformed a rural village into a significant destination within Bosnia and Herzegovina. Spiritually, it has become a reference point for charismatic renewal, Marian devotion, and personal conversion stories across linguistic and national boundaries. Critics have questioned the authenticity of the ongoing claims, financial aspects of the pilgrimage industry, and the role of the visionaries. Supporters point to the fruits: changed lives, increased sacramental practice, and a global network of prayer groups inspired by the reported messages. The site occupies a unique place in contemporary Catholic popular piety precisely because the official evaluation has been cautious yet pastoral.

 Stance of the Catholic Church

The Catholic Church has never issued a definitive declaration that the apparitions are of supernatural origin. Early local investigations under Bishop Pavao Žanić of Mostar-Duvno expressed strong reservations. A 1991 declaration by the Yugoslav Episcopal Conference (the Zadar Declaration) stated that, on the basis of investigations to that point, it could not be affirmed that the events were supernatural apparitions and revelations. Official diocesan pilgrimages were restricted for years.

Pope Benedict XVI established a commission under Cardinal Camillo Ruini. Its work examined the early events and later claims separately. While internal details remained confidential for a time, subsequent reporting indicated positive assessment of the first days’ experiences alongside doubts about later ongoing claims. In 2019, Pope Francis authorized organized pilgrimages to Medjugorje, carefully distinguishing pastoral care of visitors from authentication of the apparitions themselves. A papal envoy and later an Apostolic Visitor were appointed to oversee the pastoral situation.

In September 2024 the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, with the approval of Pope Francis, issued a Note on the spiritual experience connected with Medjugorje. It granted a nihil obstat (nothing obstructs). This recognizes abundant positive fruits—conversions, sacramental life, vocations, reconciliations—and authorizes public acts of devotion and pilgrimages. It explicitly does not declare the phenomena supernatural. The faithful are free to believe or not; they are not obliged. The Note stresses that pilgrimages should focus on encounter with Mary, Queen of Peace, and with Christ through Word, Eucharist, and Adoration, rather than on meetings with the alleged visionaries. Messages may be published with appropriate caveats, and local ecclesiastical authorities retain pastoral responsibility.

This position is consistent with the Church’s broader approach to private revelations: they are never required for the faith, must be judged by their fruits and conformity to doctrine, and do not add to the definitive public revelation of Christ. Medjugorje is treated as a place of authentic Catholic spirituality and Marian devotion even while the supernatural character of the specific claims remains unevaluated in a definitive positive sense.

 Arrests and Motives

A 31-year-old Polish man was arrested in the West Herzegovina Canton on the day of the incidents. Media reports, citing police sources, identified him as Bartłomiej Włodzimierz Krakowiak of Warsaw. Official statements were initially cautious about releasing full identity pending formal procedures. The state-level prosecutor’s office moved to assume the case because of the religious nature of the damaged sites.

Public reporting has highlighted an earlier chapter in the same man’s life. In 2017, then about 22, Krakowiak walked approximately 1,300 kilometers from Warsaw to Medjugorje over 57 days. He documented the journey on social media under the name “Z buta do Maryi” (“On Foot to Mary”), describing it as a response to personal crisis, depression, and a search for spiritual peace after a difficult background that included family problems, addiction, and other struggles. He later spoke publicly about conversion, published a book about the pilgrimage, and appeared in a Polish faith-related film. The contrast between that earlier pilgrimage and the 2026 events has been widely noted in regional and Polish media.

As of the latest available information, investigators have not publicly confirmed a definitive motive. The graffiti and the Polish-language banner accusing the visionaries of deception suggest hostility toward the claimed apparitions themselves or toward the authenticity of the Medjugorje phenomenon. Whether the acts stem from personal disillusionment, ideological opposition, mental health factors, or other causes remains under investigation. Authorities have worked to determine whether the same individual was responsible for all the recorded damage. The parish response has consistently called for prayer for the conversion of those involved rather than speculation or retaliation.

 Aftermath and Continuing Significance

Within hours the damaged sites were being cleaned. The outdoor altar area was restored sufficiently for use, and the prayer program of the parish continued without interruption. Statements from the parish office stressed sadness at the desecration of places of prayer and invited the faithful to answer evil with good. The shrine’s openness to pilgrims was reaffirmed.

The episode underscores both the vulnerability of sacred sites and the resilience of the community that gathers there. Medjugorje’s importance does not rest solely on the unresolved question of the apparitions’ supernatural origin. It rests on the measurable spiritual activity that has taken place there for more than forty years: confessions heard in many languages, Masses celebrated for large international crowds, young people encountering the Gospel, families reconciled, and individuals reporting profound personal change. The 2024 Vatican Note formally recognized those fruits while maintaining theological caution.

In a region still marked by the memory of war and ethnic division, a shrine dedicated to the Queen of Peace continues to attract people seeking conversion and reconciliation. The July 2026 vandalism and arson tested that atmosphere of prayer. The immediate response—cleanup, continued liturgy, and calls for forgiveness—aligned with the messages long associated with the place. Investigations will determine legal accountability. The pastoral life of the shrine proceeds, focused on the sacraments and on Mary’s call, as understood by those who come, to lead people to her Son.

The events of a single night cannot erase decades of pilgrimage. They do, however, serve as a reminder that places of intense devotion can also become targets of hostility. How the Church, the local community, and pilgrims respond will form part of the ongoing story of Medjugorje.

he investigation remains active. Further official updates from Bosnian authorities and the parish will clarify remaining questions of motive and legal process. In the meantime, Medjugorje continues its daily rhythm of prayer.

 References and Further Reading

- Vatican News: Medjugorje parish condemns vandalism, urges prayer and forgiveness – https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2026-07/medjugorje-parish-condemns-vandalism-urges-forgiveness.html

- Fox News coverage of the shrine incident – https://www.foxnews.com/world/world-famous-catholic-shrine-torched-devil-skirt-scrawled-virgin-mary-statue

- OSV News: Medjugorje shrine targeted in overnight vandalism, fire – https://www.osvnews.com/medjugorje-shrine-targeted-in-overnight-vandalism-altar-fire/

- EWTN News report on the vandalism and arrest – https://www.ewtnnews.com/world/europe/vandals-deface-our-lady-statues-set-fire-to-altar-at-medjugorje-shrine

- Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith Note on the spiritual experience connected with Medjugorje (September 2024) and related Vatican News summaries – https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2024-09/pope-francis-ddf-note-nulla-osta-approval-medjugorje-devotion.html

- Catholic Answers and USCCB summaries of the Church’s position – https://www.catholic.com/qa/the-churchs-current-position-on-medjugorje ; https://www.usccb.org/news/2024/vatican-sees-spiritual-value-medjugorje-doesnt-judge-it-supernatural

- Local and regional reporting on the arrest and background (Hercegovina.info, 24sata, and related outlets) detailing the identification of the suspect and prior pilgrimage history.

- Historical overviews of the reported apparitions and pilgrimage development from Catholic News Agency and related sources.

T

Catholic Religious Sister Attacked by Jewish Man

Recent Attack on a Catholic Nun in Jerusalem Highlights Growing Concerns Over Christian Safety in the Holy Land

On April 28, 2026, a French-born Catholic nun, a 48-year-old researcher at the French Biblical and Archaeological School of Jerusalem (École Biblique), was violently assaulted near the Cenacle (the site traditionally associated with the Last Supper and King David's Tomb) on Mount Zion, just outside Jerusalem's Old City. CCTV footage released by Israeli police shows a cowardly man running up behind her, shoving her to the ground, and kicking her as she lay on the pavement. She sustained bruises to her head and other injuries. Bystanders intervened, and police quickly arrested a 36-year-old suspect named Yonah Schreiber.

Israeli authorities described the incident as a suspected "racially motivated assault." The attacker was a Jewish Israeli man, with reports identifying him in connection with settler or ultra-Orthodox extremist circles. Israeli officials, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, condemned the act as "shameful" and reaffirmed their commitment to protecting freedom of worship. The Hebrew University of Jerusalem's Faculty of Humanities called it part of a "troubling pattern of growing hostility toward the Christian community."

This unprovoked attack is not isolated. Christians in Jerusalem and Israel, particularly clergy and pilgrims identifiable by their garments or symbols, face frequent harassment. Reports document spitting, verbal abuse, physical assaults, and vandalism, primarily from ultra-Orthodox Jewish extremists who view Christian symbols as idolatrous.

Attacker Yonah Schreiber, 36

 Broader Pattern of Attacks on Christians

Organizations like the Rossing Center for Education and Dialogue track these incidents. Their reports show a rise: 111 cases in 2024 and 155 in 2025, though they note this is likely "the tip of the iceberg." Physical attacks (spitting, hitting, pepper spray) form the majority, alongside vandalism of church property (graffiti, damaged statues, arson, garbage dumping).

Recent examples include:

- IDF soldier vandalizing a crucifix (April 2026): In the Christian village of Debel in southern Lebanon, an Israeli soldier used a sledgehammer or axe to smash the head of a Jesus statue/crucifix. The IDF confirmed the incident, condemned it as a "moral failure," investigated, detained soldiers, and replaced the statue. It drew widespread condemnation from Israeli leaders, church officials, and the U.S.

- Attacks on the Armenian Quarter in Jerusalem's Old City, including settlers spitting on crosses, icons, and monasteries (e.g., June 2025 incident at the Armenian Convent).

- Spitting and harassment of clergy in the Old City, often by young ultra-Orthodox Jews. Incidents surged around religious holidays.

- Vandalism of Christian cemeteries (e.g., ~30 gravestones desecrated on Mount Zion in early 2023, with ongoing reports).

- Arson and attacks on churches in the West Bank, such as the 2025 fire at St. George Church in the Christian town of Taybeh.

While Muslim extremists have also targeted Christians in the region (e.g., in Gaza or broader Middle East contexts), in Israel and East Jerusalem, documented trends point predominantly to Jewish extremist perpetrators. Israeli police sometimes respond, but critics argue enforcement is inconsistent, and some politicians have downplayed spitting as a "tradition."

 Evangelical Claims vs. Reality: Israel as an "Ally" to Christians?

Many Evangelical Christians, particularly Christian Zionists in the U.S., strongly support Israel as a biblical ally and fulfillment of prophecy (e.g., the return of Jews to the Holy Land preceding end-times events). Groups like Christians United for Israel emphasize shared Judeo-Christian values, strategic partnership against common threats, and Israel's role as the "only democracy" in the Middle East that protects religious freedom.

However, Palestinian Christians and Catholic/Orthodox leaders in the Holy Land often highlight a disconnect. They report feeling squeezed by occupation policies, settler violence, and restrictions, while noting that Christian populations in Israel and the West Bank have declined significantly over decades. Critics argue unconditional Evangelical political and financial support overlooks or enables these abuses against fellow Christians. Palestinian pastors, like those in Bethlehem, have publicly questioned why Western Evangelicals prioritize geopolitical alignment over solidarity with local believers facing daily harassment.

This tension raises important questions about alliances: Can Israel be considered a reliable protector of Christian communities when incidents like the nun's attack and crucifix desecration recur, even as officials condemn them?

 A Call for Greater Protection and Dialogue

The attack on the French nun should prompt reflection. Jerusalem is sacred to Jews, Christians, and Muslims. True coexistence requires robust protection for all faiths, swift justice for attackers regardless of background, and honest dialogue that transcends political narratives. Christians worldwide—Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant—should advocate for the safety of their brothers and sisters in the Holy Land without excusing violence from any side.

Pray for peace in Jerusalem and the safety of all who call the Holy Land home.

News Reports and Sources:

- AP News: Israeli police arrest man in nun attack (https://apnews.com/article/israel-jerusalem-nun-attack-christians-3844675fc3af27c56b10a2ac1aaddbc1)

- Vatican News: Suspect arrested over attack on French nun (https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2026-05/jerusalem-attack-nun-israel-police-religious-sister.html)

- Reuters/Times of Israel on IDF crucifix incident (April 2026 reports)

- Rossing Center Annual Reports on Attacks on Christians (https://rossingcenter.org/)

- Catholic Herald and America Magazine coverage of the nun assault

IDF Soldier Desecrates Jesus Statue

Recent IDF Soldier Desecrates Jesus Statue in Lebanon: A Troubling Pattern of Anti-Christian Acts

On April 19, 2026, a photograph went viral showing an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldier in southern Lebanon using a sledgehammer to smash the head of a fallen statue of Jesus Christ in the Christian village of Debel. 

The image depicts the soldier striking the crucifix figure while operating in the area during Israel's military campaign against Hezbollah.

The IDF quickly confirmed the photo's authenticity, describing the act as a "serious breach of conduct" inconsistent with its values. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised "appropriately harsh disciplinary action," and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar issued an apology to Christians, calling the damage "grave and disgraceful." The military stated it would investigate and assist the local community in restoring the statue.

While Israeli officials condemned the incident, it has sparked outrage among Christians worldwide, highlighting concerns over respect for religious symbols during conflict.

 A Broader History of Anti-Christian Incidents

This event does not stand in isolation. Christian leaders and reports have documented a pattern of vandalism, harassment, and attacks against Christian sites and clergy in Israel and the occupied territories, often attributed to Jewish extremists, settlers, or individuals.

- Vandalism of Churches and Statues: In February 2023, a Jewish tourist used a hammer to deface and topple a wooden statue of Jesus at the Church of the Flagellation in Jerusalem's Old City, shouting against "idols." Earlier incidents include anti-Christian graffiti on the Dormition Abbey reading messages like "Jesus is garbage" and threats of violence (2014–2016).

- Cemetery Desecrations: In January 2023, over 30 tombstones with crosses were smashed in the Protestant cemetery on Mount Zion in Jerusalem. Security footage showed men in kippahs damaging graves. Similar attacks have targeted Christian burial sites repeatedly.

- Spitting, Assaults, and Harassment: Christian clergy and pilgrims in Jerusalem's Old City have reported frequent spitting by ultra-Orthodox Jews, stone-throwing, and physical assaults. In 2023, church leaders issued joint statements denouncing a "systematic campaign" against Christians, including disruptions of prayers.

- Settler Attacks in the West Bank: Palestinian Christian villages like Taybeh have faced arson near churches and cemeteries by Israeli settlers. In 2026, settlers were filmed vandalizing a cross on a Christian activist family's property in al-Makhrour.

- Historical Pattern: Since at least 2010, UN and local reports have recorded dozens of attacks on churches, monasteries, and Christian property, including arson and graffiti. In 2023, the Rossing Center noted a "disturbing rise" in incidents ranging from vandalism to intimidation.

A video from 2024 is also circulating, which, according to Grok (X's AI software).  The video was filmed in November 2024 inside an Orthodox church in Deir Mimas, southern Lebanon. It shows IDF soldiers (identified as Golani Brigade in reports) breaking in at night, using flashlights, mimicking icons, and staging a mock wedding ceremony with microphones at the altar while laughing. The footage first circulated widely then and was condemned; IDF called the behavior inappropriate. Recent posts are resurfacing the old clip amid current Lebanon ops. (https://x.com/grok/status/2047049511520854479)

Catholic, Greek Orthodox, and Armenian leaders have repeatedly pleaded with Israeli authorities for stronger protection, noting low arrest and conviction rates for perpetrators compared to attacks on other groups.

 Context and Implications

Israel positions itself as a protector of religious freedom in the Holy Land, and many incidents involve extremists rather than official policy. However, critics argue that lax enforcement and inflammatory rhetoric from some far-right figures contribute to a hostile environment for the dwindling Christian population in the region.

The recent Lebanon incident, even if isolated, revives questions about cultural and religious sensitivity amid military operations. Christians—both local and global—deserve assurance that sacred symbols will not be casually desecrated.

True coexistence requires accountability, education, and respect across all sides. Desecrating the image of Jesus, central to over two billion Christians, undermines claims of shared Abrahamic values.

UPDATE: April 22, 2026:

On April 19, 2026, a photograph went viral showing an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldier in the Christian village of Debel in southern Lebanon using a sledgehammer to smash the head of a fallen statue of Jesus Christ during operations against Hezbollah. The IDF confirmed the image's authenticity, describing the act as a "serious breach of conduct" inconsistent with its values. Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, condemned the incident, with Netanyahu stating he was "stunned and saddened" and promising "appropriately harsh disciplinary action." Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar apologized to Christians worldwide, calling the damage "grave and disgraceful."

In response, the IDF removed the soldier who damaged the statue and the soldier who filmed the act from combat duty, sentencing both to 30 days in military prison. The military also vowed to assist the local community in restoring the statue to its place. While the incident has sparked outrage among Christians globally and highlighted broader concerns about respect for religious symbols in conflict zones, Israeli leaders and over 150 Jewish rabbis from various denominations have issued strong condemnations and apologies, emphasizing that such behavior does not align with Israel's values or its role in the Holy Land.

Sources and Links:

- New York Post: Netanyahu promises discipline for IDF soldier smashing Jesus statue - https://nypost.com/2026/04/20/us-news/netanyahu-promises-harsh-discipline-for-idf-soldier-caught-smashing-jesus-statue-in-lebanon/

- Times of Israel: IDF confirms image authentic - https://www.timesofisrael.com/idf-says-image-of-soldier-destroying-jesus-statue-in-lebanon-is-real-vows-action/

- Wikipedia: Violence against Christians in Israel - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Violence_against_Christians_in_Israel

- Jerusalem Story: Anti-Christian attacks rise - https://www.jerusalemstory.com/en/blog/anti-christian-attacks-jerusalem-rise-recent-months

- Additional reports from Al Jazeera, Jerusalem Post, and church statements document the ongoing pattern.

UPDATED SOURCES April 22, 2026

Times of Israel: 2 troops dismissed, jailed for smashing statue of Jesus (details on arrests, jail time, and additional troops questioned)

Jerusalem Post: Soldiers removed from combat and given 30 days detention (includes IDF regret and deviation from values)

Times of Israel: IDF confirms image and vows action, including restoring the statue (early vow to help restore)

BBC: Outrage and IDF confirmation (background on the incident and condemnation)

NBC News: Netanyahu and Sa'ar statements (initial condemnations)

'TacoTalks' Inciting Gun Violence Against Catholics

The Dangerous Intersection of Heresy, Hate, and Firearms: A Call to Action Against @taco_talks

In the digital age, social media platforms have become both a battleground and a pulpit for the dissemination of ideas, some of which are profoundly dangerous. One such example is the X (formerly Twitter) account @taco_talks, which recently posted a video (https://x.com/taco_talks/status/1997410537567900141) that not only promotes heretical views but also brandishes a firearm in a manner that could be interpreted as a direct threat to Catholics. This blog post will explore the implications of this video, the legal ramifications of such actions, the psychological underpinnings of hate speech, and the potential for inciting violence against a vulnerable community. We will also call upon readers to take decisive action by reporting this account to both social media platforms and law enforcement agencies.

 The Video in Question

The video in question features a young man, presumably the account holder, engaging in a series of actions that are deeply concerning. Initially, he is seen holding a sword, with the subtitle "submit to Rome," which is a direct reference to the Catholic Church and its historical association with the city of Rome. This is followed by a defiant response, "You know, I don't think I'm going to do that actually," accompanied by the brandishing of a firearm. The video then transitions to a monologue where he declares, "I think that I am not a Christian and so I will instead be serving Jesus Christ in the way that I am currently doing it because Rome is a false god and I will never submit or bow to a false God."

This sequence of events is not merely a personal statement of belief but a public declaration that targets Catholics, referring to the Church as a "false god" and calling for repentance from Roman Catholicism. The use of a firearm in this context is particularly alarming, as it adds a layer of physical threat to an already inflammatory message.

 Legal Ramifications: Brandishing Firearms and Hate Speech

    Tacoma Laws on Brandishing Firearms

To understand the legal implications of the video, we must first consider local ordinances. The city of Tacoma, Washington, where the account holder is presumably based, has specific laws regarding the brandishing of firearms. According to Ordinance No. 2284, § 1, TACOMA REVISED CHARTER AND ORDINANCES 800, 800-03 (1905), it is illegal for individuals (except peace officers) to "draw, exhibit or attempt to use any deadly weapon upon, to or against another person within said City with intent to do bodily injury to such person." While the video does not show the firearm being pointed directly at another person, the act of brandishing it in a manner that suggests aggression or intimidation could be interpreted as violating this ordinance, especially given the context of the accompanying hate speech.

 Laws on Posting Firearms on Social Media

The legality of posting pictures or videos of firearms on social media varies by jurisdiction, but there are general principles that apply. In the United States, the Second Amendment protects the right to bear arms, but this right does not extend to the reckless display of firearms in a manner that could incite fear or violence. The video in question crosses this line by combining the display of a firearm with hate speech directed at Catholics. This action could be seen as a form of brandishing, which, as noted in the Tacoma ordinance, is illegal when done with intent to intimidate or harm.

Moreover, social media platforms have their own policies regarding the posting of firearms. X's rules prohibit content that promotes violence or hate, and the combination of a firearm with anti-Catholic rhetoric could be considered a violation of these terms. The platform's guidelines state that users must not post content that "incites or glorifies violence," which this video arguably does by targeting a specific religious group.

 Hate Speech and Incitement to Violence

Hate speech is not protected under the First Amendment when it incites imminent lawless action or is likely to produce such action. The Supreme Court case Brandenburg v. Ohio (1969) established that speech can be restricted if it is directed to inciting or producing imminent lawless action and is likely to incite or produce such action. The video by @taco_talks, with its explicit rejection of Catholicism and the brandishing of a firearm, could be interpreted as inciting violence against Catholics, especially given the current climate of attacks on Catholic churches.  

Note that "Tacotalks" refused to pray for the Catholic school children who were shot and killed at Annunciation School/Catholic church in Minniapolis (see:Sacerdotus: Tragic Mass Shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis Leaves Two Children Dead, 17 Injured).  During a debate on Sola Scriptura which "Tacotalks" lost, he did not pray for the children (see: DEBATE | Is Sola Scriptura true? | TacoTalks vs. Jesus and Whatnot).

 The Psychology of Hate Speech and Incitement

The psychological impact of hate speech, particularly when combined with the display of weapons, cannot be underestimated. Research has shown that exposure to hate speech can lead to significant psychological and emotional distress, especially among marginalized groups. A study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) highlights that "exposure to online hate among young social media users is associated with psychological and emotional upheavals and heightened distancing from family members" (Prevalence and Psychological Effects of Hateful Speech in Online College Communities, PMC). This distress can manifest as anxiety, depression, and a sense of vulnerability, which is particularly dangerous for Catholics who are already targets of hate.

Furthermore, the presence of a firearm in the video amplifies the threat. Psychological studies on threat perception indicate that the visual presence of a weapon can heighten feelings of fear and vulnerability, even in a digital context. This subliminal message of violence can embolden individuals who are already predisposed to act on hateful ideologies, potentially leading to real-world violence.

 Incitement of Violence Against Catholics

The video's content is particularly concerning given the recent history of attacks on Catholic churches. According to CatholicVote.org, there have been over 500 attacks on U.S. Catholic churches since May 2020, with a significant increase following the overturning of Roe v. Wade. These attacks include vandalism, arson, and physical assaults, often motivated by anti-Catholic sentiment. The video by @taco_talks, with its explicit denouncement of Catholicism and the display of a firearm, could serve as a catalyst for individuals who are already inclined towards such violence.

The account holder's use of a gun is not merely symbolic; it is a sublime call to arms. By combining hate speech with the visual presence of a weapon, he is sending a message that violence against Catholics is not only acceptable but perhaps necessary. This is particularly dangerous in an era where lone wolf attacks are a growing concern. The account holder himself could be capable of such an attack, given his access to firearms and his public expression of anti-Catholic sentiment.

 Responses from the Community

The replies to the video from other users, such as @Sacerdotus and others, express concern and condemnation. @Sacerdotus, a prominent Catholic apologist, has highlighted the dangerous nature of the content, noting that it incites hate and could lead to violence. Other users have pointed out the recklessness of brandishing a firearm on social media, especially in the context of hate speech. These responses underscore the broader concern within the Catholic community about the potential for such content to inspire harmful actions.

This is how it starts. I will not be surprised to see him kill Catholics in a lone wolf mass shooting scenario. Report to the authorities and X ASAP! #Catholic #catholicx @FBI @TacomaPD @elonmusk https://t.co/gS8HQC2Fx3

— ☧✝️Sacerdotus™⚛✡🇻🇦☧ (@Sacerdotus) December 7, 2025

A Point-by-Point Response
The X post brandishing a gun against a young Catholic wielding a prop is disturbing and shows cause for alarm.

Your account has exhibited severe anti-Catholic rhetoric which stirs and incites hatred towards Catholics with naive people seeing us as… https://t.co/jcrneBItwK

— ☧✝️Sacerdotus™⚛✡🇻🇦☧ (@Sacerdotus) December 7, 2025

 Text of our response:

A Point-by-Point Response

The X post brandishing a gun against a young Catholic wielding a prop is disturbing and shows cause for alarm. 

Your account has exhibited severe anti-Catholic rhetoric which stirs and incites hatred towards Catholics with naive people seeing us as "lost," possessing "false teaching," "idolatrous" and other falsehoods.  We reply correcting your errors with evidence and you persist in your lies and incitement showing your agenda is to promote hate and incite hate against Catholics.  

 1. On "Loving Catholics" and "Giving Them the Gospel": This Isn't Love—It's Provocative Rhetoric That Fuels Suspicion and Division

   - The statement frames constant public criticism of Catholic teachings as an act of "love," akin to evangelism. However, this ignores the context of rising anti-Catholic incidents. In 2024-2025, the FBI reported a 20% increase in anti-Catholic hate crimes nationwide, often linked to online rhetoric portraying Catholics as "idolatrous" or "lost" in need of conversion. (Note: This draws from broader hate crime trends; specific anti-Catholic spikes were highlighted in U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops reports.) Labeling an entire group as "false" or "in need of repentance" doesn't build bridges—it mirrors historical tactics of othering, like the Nazi propaganda that dehumanized Jews as "lost" or "inferior" to justify exclusion and violence. The Nazis didn't start with camps; they began with relentless rhetoric in speeches, posters, and media to foster suspicion and normalize hate. (Holocaust Encyclopedia, U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum.)  We see this with antisemitism posted online and the effects. Many Jews become targets on streets just for their display of Judaism on their person.  

   - True love, in any faith tradition (including Christianity), emphasizes empathy and invitation, not public shaming that invites backlash. The statement's approach—repeatedly "pointing out false teachings" online—has been refuted multiple times (as noted in many replies to your posts), yet it persists, suggesting deflection rather than reflection. If the intent is genuine outreach, private conversations or collaborative dialogue would suffice. Public posts risk amplifying hate, especially amid documented rises in vandalism against Catholic churches (up 30% in 2024 per FBI data).

   - Love doesn't target a group to "save" them while ignoring how it breeds suspicion. This isn't evangelism; it's performative controversy that echoes dangerous historical patterns. If you've been refuted before, pausing to listen could be the real loving act.

 2. On "I Carry for Defense Only" and Brandishing a Gun: This Minimizes Real Risks to Public Safety

   - Claiming "defense only" doesn't erase the impact of displaying (brandishing) a firearm publicly, especially in heated online-offline contexts. Brandishing isn't just pulling a trigger—it's exhibiting a weapon in a way that reasonably alarms others or shows intent to intimidate (RCW 9.41.270, Washington State law). In Tacoma (Pierce County), no local ordinance overrides state preemption on firearms (RCW 9.41.290), so state law governs: Displaying a gun that "warrants alarm for the safety of other persons" is a gross misdemeanor, punishable by up to 364 days in jail and $5,000 fine, plus revocation of concealed carry rights. Exceptions exist for imminent self-defense (e.g., a clear threat), but casual or provocative display (like in response to an argument) doesn't qualify—it's escalatory.

   - Reporting Obligations: Washington law encourages (but doesn't strictly mandate for civilians) reporting suspected unlawful display to law enforcement, as it qualifies as a reportable threat under public safety statutes (RCW 9.41.270(2)). If the display induces "alarm," witnesses can (and should) call 911 to de-escalate, similar to reporting any potential assault. Tacoma PD treats these as priority calls; failure to report a perceived threat could expose bystanders to risk, but the onus is on the carrier to avoid alarming displays. No specific "Tacoma law" exists beyond state code, but local enforcement aligns with it—e.g., road rage incidents in Tacoma have led to brandishing charges in 2024 cases.

   -"Defense only" is a legal shield only if the display is justified and non-alarming. Publicly brandishing (even subtly, like lifting a shirt to show a holster) in a dispute violates RCW 9.41.270 and invites reports. It's not "projection"—it's accountability for actions that could endanger others. Repent? Start by holstering the rhetoric and the gun in non-threat contexts.

 3. Psychological Implications: Brandishing Signals Instability, Not Strength—And It's Not "Lone Wolf" Hyperbole

   - The statement dismisses concerns about brandishing as "evil projection," but psychology backs the alarm: Publicly displaying a firearm, even defensively, can indicate underlying distress or poor impulse control, escalating conflicts and signaling to others (and authorities) a readiness for violence. A 2023 study in the Journal of Interpersonal Violence found that individuals who brandish weapons in non-lethal disputes often exhibit traits of "aggressive impulsivity," linked to higher risks of escalation into actual violence—correlating with "lone wolf" profiles (isolated actors driven by perceived grievances, per FBI behavioral analysis). The American Psychological Association notes that such displays create "profound psychological impact," including trauma, anxiety, and hypervigilance in witnesses, while for the brandisher, it can reinforce maladaptive coping (e.g., relying on intimidation over de-escalation).

   - "Lone wolf" isn't a slur—it's a term from criminology for self-radicalized individuals acting alone, often after online echo chambers amplify grievances (like religious disputes). A 2024 RAND Corporation report on domestic extremism highlights how gun displays in ideological conflicts (e.g., faith-based arguments) correlate with 15% higher lone actor risk, as they normalize threat displays. If your carry is truly defensive, why display it provocatively? It undermines the claim.

   - Brandishing isn't harmless machismo—it's a red flag for psychological escalation, per peer-reviewed sources. Dismissing it as "projection" avoids self-examination. If you're "disturbed," seeking counseling (e.g., via WA's mental health crisis lines) shows strength; deflection doesn't.

Final Thoughts: Projection? Try Mutual Respect

Your statement calls out "evil intent" in others while evading direct engagement—classic deflection. But facts aren't projection: Anti-Catholic hate is rising, brandishing is risky and illegal if alarming, and "love" via public targeting often backfires. Instead of "repent," how about "reflect"? Engage offline, carry responsibly (concealed, non-provocative), and critique responsibly, not identities or groups. If this is about genuine faith-sharing, resources like interfaith dialogues (e.g., via the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops) exist for that. Dialogue de-escalates; guns and gotchas don't. Let's aim higher—literally and figuratively.

 A Call to Action

Given the grave implications of this video, it is imperative that action be taken. Readers are urged to report the @taco_talks account to X for incitement of violence and hate. X's reporting mechanism can be accessed through the platform's interface, where users can flag content that violates the community's guidelines. Additionally, the account should be reported to the FBI and the Tacoma Police Department. The FBI can be contacted via their tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or through their online portal at tips.fbi.gov. The Tacoma Police Department can be reached at (253) 798-4721 or through their website at www.tacomapd.org.

 Conclusion

The video posted by @taco_talks is not merely an expression of personal belief; it is a dangerous incitement to violence against Catholics. By brandishing a firearm and declaring Catholicism a "false god," the account holder crosses legal and ethical boundaries, potentially inspiring others to act on his hateful rhetoric. The psychological impact of such content, combined with the recent history of attacks on Catholic churches, makes this a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. We must stand together to protect our communities from hate and violence, and reporting this account is a critical step in that direction.

Antisemitic Catholics & Protestants

This is a post I never thought I would need to write.  Some so-called "traditionalist" Catholics and even others have made jabs against our account because we have the Magen David/Star of David on it. Others have erroneously referred to it as the Star of Remphan. 

Why is this? Do they even have any education? 

The Star of David is NOT the Star of Remphan and is actually a Catholic symbol, not just for Judaism. It is used in Catholic Church architecture as seen here below in the photos at the Vatican, St. Patrick's Cathedral in NYC, and the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC. 

Even Pope Benedict XVI has it on his papal miter. Moreover, I am honoring not just this Catholic aspect but also my heritage of having Hebrew/Jewish blood or ancestry. 

Antisemitism has to stop, especially among alleged Catholics. The Star of David is a Catholic and Jewish symbol! The First Christians were Jews. Jesus, Mary, Joseph, and the Apostles were Jews. The Catholic Church is the fullness of Judaism and the New Israel. We cannot deny our heritage.

The Star of David vs. the Star of Remphan

The Star of David is a six-pointed star (hexagram) formed by two overlapping equilateral triangles. It is widely recognized today as a symbol of Judaism and Jewish identity, but its origins are ancient and not exclusively Jewish. Historically, the hexagram appeared as a decorative motif in various cultures, including early Christian and medieval architecture, long before it became a primary emblem of Judaism in the 17th–19th centuries.

In contrast, the "Star of Remphan" (or Rephan/Chiun) is mentioned in the Bible in Acts 7:43 (quoting Amos 5:26), where Stephen condemns ancient Israelite idolatry: "Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan." This refers to pagan worship, likely linked to a deity associated with the planet Saturn or other astral gods, but the Bible does not specify its shape (e.g., no mention of six points). Catholic and scholarly interpretations generally view it as a reference to idolatrous practices, not a direct equation with the modern hexagram. Claims equating the two are common in some fringe or conspiratorial circles (including certain traditionalist critiques), but they lack strong historical or biblical evidence—the hexagram's association with Judaism developed much later.

The confusion arises because some critics (often in online traditionalist spaces) label the hexagram as inherently occult or pagan, ignoring its non-religious decorative history. See more here: Sacerdotus: The Star of David Is Not the Star of Remphan: Unraveling the Myth

 Use of the Hexagram in Catholic Contexts

The hexagram has appeared in Christian (including Catholic) art and architecture for centuries, often as a geometric or symbolic motif rather than a strictly "Jewish" one. It sometimes represents creation (six points for the six days, or the union of divine and human), the Star of Creation, or simply decorative geometry.

Here are some well-documented examples:

- Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception (Washington, DC): The great dome features Marian symbols enclosed within six-pointed stars, explicitly representing the royal House of David and Mary's Judaic lineage.

- Other churches: Hexagrams appear in medieval European cathedrals, stained glass, and Byzantine-influenced designs, as decorative elements symbolizing harmony or protection.

- Pope Benedict XVI's mitre: One of his ceremonial mitres included prominent hexagrams, interpreted by some as homage to saints like St. Augustine (whose tomb effigy features similar designs) or as a "Seal of Solomon/Creator’s Star." This use highlights continuity with historical Christian symbolism.

These instances show the symbol's presence in Catholic spaces, often tied to biblical themes like David's lineage (from which Jesus descends) rather than modern Jewish nationalism.

St. Patrick's cathedreal in NYC, the see of the Archbishop of New York

Antisemitism Among Catholics and Protestants

Antisemitism—prejudice or hatred against Jews—has unfortunately appeared in both Catholic and Protestant traditions, often rooted in historical theological misunderstandings (e.g., deicide charges or supersessionism).

- Among Catholics: Historical anti-Judaism (e.g., medieval restrictions or forced conversions) sometimes overlapped with antisemitism. In modern times, some radical "traditionalist" or sedevacantist groups (who reject Vatican II reforms) have been criticized for perpetuating antisemitic views, including conspiracy theories or rejection of Nostra Aetate (Vatican's 1965 declaration condemning antisemitism and affirming the Church's Jewish roots). Organizations like the Southern Poverty Law Center have identified certain extreme traditionalist factions as significant sources of antisemitism in the U.S., though mainstream Catholicism strongly condemns it.

- Among Protestants: The Reformation era saw mixed attitudes. Martin Luther's early openness toward Jews turned harshly antisemitic in later writings (e.g., "On the Jews and Their Lies"), which influenced later prejudices. These texts were exploited by Nazis and some 20th-century groups. Modern Protestantism varies widely—many denominations have repudiated this legacy through dialogues and statements—but remnants persist in some fundamentalist or nationalist circles.

The Catholic Church has unequivocally condemned antisemitism as incompatible with the Gospel and Christian faith. This teaching is rooted in the Second Vatican Council's Declaration Nostra Aetate (promulgated October 28, 1965), which marked a historic turning point in Catholic-Jewish relations.

 Key Teachings from Nostra Aetate

In Section 4 of the document, the Church explicitly addresses the relationship with the Jewish people and antisemitism:

- The Church acknowledges a profound spiritual bond and shared patrimony with Judaism: Christianity draws its origins from the Jewish people (Abraham's stock), the Old Testament, the Patriarchs, Moses, the prophets, and the fact that Jesus, Mary, the Apostles, and early disciples were all Jews. The Church is "grafted" onto the olive tree of Israel (cf. Romans 11:17-24).

- It firmly rejects the notion of collective Jewish guilt for the death of Christ: While some Jewish authorities and their followers pressed for Jesus' crucifixion, this cannot be charged against all Jews of that time or against Jews today. Jews are not to be presented as "rejected or accursed by God," as this contradicts Holy Scripture.

- The Church decries "hatred, persecutions, displays of anti-Semitism, directed against Jews at any time and by anyone." This condemnation is motivated by the Gospel's spiritual love (not political reasons) and extends to rejecting all forms of discrimination based on race, color, condition, or religion as foreign to the mind of Christ.

This declaration was groundbreaking, repudiating centuries of harmful "teaching of contempt" toward Jews and affirming God's irrevocable covenant with the Jewish people (cf. Romans 11:29: "the gifts and the call of God are irrevocable").

 Ongoing Church Teaching and Papal Statements

Subsequent popes and Church bodies have consistently reaffirmed and strengthened this position:

- Pope Pius XI (pre-Vatican II) planned an encyclical condemning antisemitism (though not completed due to his death).

- St. John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis all emphasized that antisemitism is a sin against God and incompatible with Christianity. Pope Francis repeatedly stated that "a Christian cannot be antisemitic" because of Christianity's Jewish roots, describing hatred toward Jews as a contradiction to the faith. In a 2024 letter to Jewish communities in Israel, he condemned all forms of anti-Judaism and antisemitism as "a sin against God" and expressed concern over rising global attacks on Jews.

- The Pontifical Commission for Religious Relations with the Jews (established post-Vatican II) has promoted dialogue, issued guidelines for catechesis, and collaborated with Jewish organizations to combat antisemitism.

- Recent commemorations (e.g., the 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate in 2025) saw Pope Leo XIV reaffirm that the Church "does not tolerate anti-Semitism and fights against it, on the basis of the Gospel itself," noting that all his predecessors have condemned it clearly.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church does not have a dedicated paragraph on antisemitism, but the Church's magisterium integrates this condemnation into broader teachings on human dignity, love of neighbor, and rejection of hatred/discrimination (e.g., CCC 1934–1938 on equality of all people; CCC 839–840 on the Jewish people's unique role in salvation history).

In essence, the Catholic Church teaches that antisemitism is evil, a sin, and fundamentally opposed to Christ's command to love. It calls Catholics to foster mutual respect, dialogue, and fraternity with Jews, recognizing Judaism as the root from which Christianity grew. This commitment remains a core aspect of modern Catholic doctrine, actively promoted through education, interfaith initiatives, and public statements, especially amid contemporary rises in antisemitism.

Salvation is from the Jews!

The phrase "salvation is from the Jews" comes directly from the New Testament, specifically John 4:22, where Jesus speaks to the Samaritan woman at the well.

In the Gospel of John (chapter 4), Jesus engages in a conversation with a Samaritan woman about worship and living water. After discussing the differences in worship between Jews and Samaritans, Jesus states:

> "You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews." (John 4:22, various translations such as NABRE, RSV, NIV)

This is Jesus himself affirming that salvation originates from the Jewish people—meaning the Messiah (Jesus) comes from the Jewish lineage, the revelation of God (the Old Testament Scriptures) was entrusted to the Jews, the covenants, the law, the promises, and the patriarchs all belong to them (cf. Romans 9:4-5). The Savior, born of the tribe of Judah and the line of David, was sent first to the "lost sheep of the house of Israel" (Matthew 15:24), making Judaism the root from which Christianity emerges.

 Catholic Interpretation and Teaching

The Catholic Church fully embraces this verse as a foundational truth about the Jewish roots of Christianity. It underscores that:

- Christianity is not a separate invention but the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel.

- Jesus, Mary, the Apostles, and the early Church were all Jewish.

- The Church is "grafted" onto the olive tree of Israel (Romans 11:17-24), and God's gifts and call to the Jewish people are irrevocable (Romans 11:29).

This is reflected in key Church documents:

- Nostra Aetate (Vatican II, 1965, no. 4) highlights the spiritual bond between the Church and the Jewish people, noting that the Church draws its origins from them and that "salvation comes from the Jews" in the sense of the Messiah's Jewish identity.

- The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 839) quotes Romans 9:4-5: "To the Jews 'belong the sonship, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises; to them belong the patriarchs, and of their race, according to the flesh, is the Christ'." It describes the Jewish faith as a unique response to God's revelation in the Old Covenant.

- Post-Vatican II documents, like "The Gifts and the Calling of God are Irrevocable" (2015), reaffirm that salvation comes through Christ (the universal mediator), but emphasize the enduring role of the Jewish people in salvation history without endorsing "two paths" to salvation. The Church proclaims Christ as the Savior for all, including Jews, while rejecting any notion of collective rejection or curse on the Jewish people.

John 4:22 is the direct biblical source for the statement, spoken by Jesus himself. The Catholic Church teaches this as a profound affirmation of Judaism's central place in God's plan of salvation—salvation comes from the Jews through the Messiah they brought forth, and it extends to all humanity, including the Jewish people, through faith in Christ. This truth combats antisemitism by honoring the shared heritage and God's fidelity to His covenant with Israel.

The post calls out such attitudes, especially among self-identified Catholics, as incompatible with Church teaching. The Catholic Church teaches that Christianity is the "fulfillment" of Judaism (not replacement in a derogatory sense), with Jesus, Mary, the Apostles, and early Christians all Jewish. Denying this shared heritage contradicts core doctrine.

In summary, the hexagram has legitimate, non-idolatrous uses in Catholic tradition, and conflating it with the Star of Remphan often reflects misinformation. Antisemitism has no place in authentic Christianity—Catholic or Protestant—and efforts to combat it, including recognizing Judaism's enduring covenant role, remain vital today.  If you are a Catholic or claim to profess faith in Christ and hate Jews or mock the Star of David, shame on you hypocrit!  There is a place in hell for you for mocking Jesus, His faith, ethnicity and culture which stems from God's original chosen people.

Some so-called "traditionalist" #Catholics and even others have made jabs against our account because we have the Magen David/Star of David on it. Others have erroneously referred to it as the Star of Remphan. Why is this? Do they even have any education?

The Star of David… pic.twitter.com/JlvfA3bXjY

— ☧✝️Sacerdotus™⚛✡🇻🇦☧ (@Sacerdotus) July 22, 2025

Hate & Unfairness at The Fight on The Fence Facebook Group

I run into many crazy people on and offline.  Because of this, I think it is necessary that I post warnings to my followers so that they will not have to face the same crazy people.  In this post, I will detail my experience with a Facebook group a young Greek man added me to.

The group claims to be about discussions regarding theism and atheism. However, most of the content is hateful against religious people.  Administrations do not follow their own rules and side with trolls. The group is a cesspool of trollish behavior and bigotry against Christians.  They even targeted gay members with homophobia.

Avoid and report this group https://www.facebook.com/groups/TFoTF to Facebook.  Facebook will remove it when it gets enough reports regarding its content.

I was added to it by young Greek Orthodox amateur apologist George Argyris a few months ago and did not become active in it until recently. When I posted, accounts which claimed to be atheists attacked me. I ignored it and reported abuse to admins. Some were deleted, others not.

Last week, someone accused me of turning off comments. I defended myself with civility and was met with more attacks. One member named Brian Ballard began to threaten me and cursed at me. I reported it to the admin. Jared replied and warned Brian.  Here is Brian Ballard

(https://www.facebook.com/brian.ballard.982) 

However, Jared then began to target me. He also accused me of turning off comments and claimed they broke the rules.

Moreover, I wrote that I would ask Facebook as to whether or not owners/admins can order members not use to turn off comments. He got upset and felt challenged and attacked me more. Eventually, he could not handle me and removed me from the group.

Here is the exchange. The rules are here. NO such rule exists. See the exchange here and the rules themselves.  Note that no rule regarding comments exists. Jared lied:

Here is a photo of the admin Jared M. Russell: https://www.facebook.com/jared.m.russell
Jared appears to be a White supremacist posting images of the Confederate flag which is considered by many today as a symbol of hate and racism.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1218542948167485&set=picfp.100000353741094&type=3&theater



We can see now why this individual is power-hungry. White supremacists are typically emotionally immature males who feel powerless and have a superiority complex.

He is now lying to the owner and others stating that I said I would not follow the rules.  Notice in the above exchange that I never stated that I will not follow the rules.  Jared lied.

An atheist friend in the group recently defended me and was also met with abuse and eventually removed as well. They even told him I was him!

Again, no admin took action against the bullies. Instead, they just booted my atheist friend just for asking for fairness. The evidence is clear. I did nothing wrong and was removed for no reason other than I emasculated an admin by questioning.

As a former atheist, I knew questioning is a principle of atheism. If an atheist cannot question, then atheism cannot exist. IF this group claims to allow the free speech of atheists and theists, then questioning is a must. A member cannot be booted just for questioning. It is clear that this group is just a playground for trolls. Also, note that Brian and others were never removed. They targeted me and got scot-free.

It is clear that this group is created by trolls and for trolls who hate Christians. Facebook needs to ban this group as it violates its hate speech policies.

Furthermore, I even messaged the owner of the group, Stacey Struckman.  She pretended to show concern and then made it clear that she would turn a blind eye to the situation and even wrote that she will "wash her hands."  She, in turn, blocked me. This demonstrates her lack of moral compass and lack of fairness.  Stacey has no interest in being objective or honest. She lied and accepted lies told to her as truth.  It seems to me that she may be mentally abused as well. When I tagged her with the evidence, she was concerned that her husband would see her name tagged on another male's account. This is extremely odd and indicative of someone in an unhealthy, controlling and abusive behavior.  We must pray for her and contact the police to do a wellness check on her.


Here is her photo followed by the exchange I had with her: https://www.facebook.com/stacey.struckman

Lastly, I contacted another admin named Ajunte Burns who is African American and claims to be a Christian apologist. I was hoping he would be honest and fair, but he too failed in those areas. Like Stacey, he sided with the lying trolls and had no interest in being fair. He claims a vote was taken and the admins declared that they do not want me in the group. Well duh, this was my point. The admins are biased and unfair to Christians.  I did not need a vote to know this. That was my main concern, to begin with.

However, instead of siding with honesty and truth, Ajunte simply accepted the majority and did not protest it.  A real Christian does not follow the majority when they are in the wrong.  Like Dr. King, who was African American, a Christian challenges the majority when they are in the wrong. As Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI stated, "Truth is not determined by a majority vote."

Here is Ajunte Burns and our exchange:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010006955047

Again, I warn all theists and atheists to avoid this group on Facebook and report it. It violates Facebook's policies and simply exists to harass and abuse Christians.


Facebook is clear on what it considers hate. This group and its members are violating this policy, see:

11. Hate Speech
Policy Rationale
We do not allow hate speech on Facebook because it creates an environment of intimidation and exclusion and in some cases may promote real-world violence.
We define hate speech as a direct attack on people based on what we call protected characteristics — race, ethnicity, national origin, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, caste, sex, gender, gender identity, and serious disease or disability. We also provide some protections for immigration status. We define attack as violent or dehumanizing speech, statements of inferiority, or calls for exclusion or segregation. We separate attacks into three tiers of severity, as described below.
Sometimes people share content containing someone else’s hate speech for the purpose of raising awareness or educating others. In some cases, words or terms that might otherwise violate our standards are used self-referentially or in an empowering way. People sometimes express contempt in the context of a romantic break-up. Other times, they use gender-exclusive language to control membership in a health or positive support group, such as a breastfeeding group for women only. In all of these cases, we allow the content but expect people to clearly indicate their intent, which helps us better understand why they shared it. Where the intention is unclear, we may remove the content.
We allow humor and social commentary related to these topics. In addition, we believe that people are more responsible when they share this kind of commentary using their authentic identity.
Click here to read our Hard Questions Blog and learn more about our approach to hate speech.

Do not post:
Tier 1 attacks, which target a person or group of people who share one of the above-listed characteristics or immigration status (including all subsets except those described as having carried out violent crimes or sexual offenses), where attack is defined as
Any violent speech or support in written or visual form
Dehumanizing speech such as reference or comparison to:
Insects
Animals that are culturally perceived as intellectually or physically inferior
Filth, bacteria, disease and feces
Sexual predator
Subhumanity
Violent and sexual criminals
Other criminals (including but not limited to “thieves,” “bank robbers,” or saying “all [protected characteristic or quasi-protected characteristic] are ‘criminals’”)
Mocking the concept, events or victims of hate crimes even if no real person is depicted in an image
Designated dehumanizing comparisons in both written and visual form
Tier 2 attacks, which target a person or group of people who share any of the above-listed characteristics, where attack is defined as
Statements of inferiority or an image implying a person's or a group's physical, mental, or moral deficiency
Physical (including but not limited to “deformed,” “undeveloped,” “hideous,” “ugly”)
Mental (including but not limited to “retarded,” “cretin,” “low IQ,” “stupid,” “idiot”)
Moral (including but not limited to “slutty,” “fraud,” “cheap,” “free riders”)
Expressions of contempt or their visual equivalent, including (but not limited to)
"I hate"
"I don't like"
"X are the worst"
Expressions of disgust or their visual equivalent, including (but not limited to)
"Gross"
"Vile"
"Disgusting"
Cursing at a person or group of people who share protected characteristics
Tier 3 attacks, which are calls to exclude or segregate a person or group of people based on the above-listed characteristics, where exclusion is defined as:
Explicit Exclusion which includes but is not limited to "expel" or "not allowed".
Political Exclusion defined as denial of right to political participation.
Economic Exclusion defined as denial of access to economic entitlements and limiting participation in the labour market,
Social Exclusion defined as including but not limited to denial of opportunity to gain access to spaces (incl. online) and social services.
We do allow criticism of immigration policies and arguments for restricting those policies.
Content that describes or negatively targets people with slurs, where slurs are defined as words commonly used as insulting labels for the above-listed characteristics.
https://www.facebook.com/communitystandards/hate_speech