
Christian churches in Florida, Massachusetts and Arizona are facing suspected arson attacks, with each community left in shock.
Incarnation Catholic Church in Orlando, Florida, has experienced two such incidents in just over a year. The most recent fire broke out early Wednesday morning, damaging the altar despite firefighters’ efforts to contain it. Parishioners are frustrated by the lack of progress from last year’s investigation, which did not result in any arrests or clear cause despite initial suspicions.
Incarnation Catholic Church in Orlando was burned down by arson. The fire was so hot metal in the building melted. Nothing was left inside but ash. Except one thing was left. Where the altar once stood, on the ground and covered in ash, they found a monstrance with the Holy… pic.twitter.com/FoTYuwGmlO
— Royce Hood (@RoyceHood) July 14, 2024
Massachusetts’ St. Mary Church in Franklin also suffered a targeted fire. The flames broke out in the rear sacristy, causing smoke damage throughout the building. Authorities, including the ATF and local officials, are investigating and offering a $10,000 reward for information that could lead to an arrest. The investigation remains active as officials encourage community members to provide any helpful information.
Arson investigation:
Call the number in pic below, if you have any info about the fire at St. Mary Catholic Church in Franklin
Church members were in tears describing the scene from last night; they’ll now be unable to worship here for 4-6 weeks pic.twitter.com/BG6iOUcF9z
— Darren Botelho (@DarrenBotelho) October 24, 2024
Arizona’s St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church was another recent victim. The fire coincides with the state’s debate over Proposition 139, which would expand abortion rights. The church, known for its vocal opposition to the amendment, experienced significant damage. Father Ariel Luston, the parish priest, expressed concerns about the timing and nature of the fire. Authorities are investigating the incident as suspicious but have not yet confirmed any link to the church’s activism.
Horrible!
The crucifix at the altar of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Arizona, which was destroyed by fire last week
Since May 2020, 462 attacks have been reported on Catholic Churches in the United States, according to the CatholicVote tracker pic.twitter.com/oxk1QImpUf
— Sachin Jose (@Sachinettiyil) October 27, 2024
Tommy Valentine from CatholicVote highlighted the seriousness of these incidents, calling for increased protection for Christian places of worship. He pointed out that such violence often coincides with political controversies over abortion measures, urging authorities to take these attacks seriously and act swiftly.
With faith communities under threat, parishioners are demanding justice and transparency from law enforcement. They are calling for these arson incidents to be treated as acts of persecution, urging authorities to provide the necessary security to safeguard their places of worship.