Christian churches in Florida, Massachusetts, and Arizona have recently become the targets of arson attacks, causing fear and frustration within faith communities.
In Orlando, the Incarnation Catholic Church experienced its second suspected arson in 16 months. Firefighters responded early Wednesday morning, but significant damage occurred at the altar. Parishioners have expressed anger over the lack of results from last year’s investigation, which did not lead to any arrests or clear conclusions.
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 was also impacted by a similar attack. Flames broke out in the rear sacristy, spreading smoke throughout the historic church. Authorities, including the ATF, are investigating the case and have offered a $10,000 reward for any information that could lead to the arrest of the suspect. The state’s fire marshal’s office is asking for community assistance as they work to uncover those responsible.
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
In Arizona, the St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church faced another suspicious fire. The attack coincides with the state’s vote on Proposition 139, a measure expanding abortion rights. The church has been outspoken in its opposition, and some believe the fire may be linked to this activism. Father Ariel Luston described the extensive damage to the sanctuary, calling the timing suspicious. The ATF is investigating the incident but has yet to confirm any direct connections to the church’s advocacy.
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
These attacks have prompted leaders like Tommy Valentine from CatholicVote to call for immediate action. Valentine highlighted the troubling pattern of violence against churches, especially in states with controversial abortion measures on the ballot. He emphasized the need for enhanced security and protection for Christian places of worship.
Parishioners are demanding justice and a full investigation into these arson attacks. They insist that law enforcement take these threats seriously and provide the necessary protection for their communities. As these incidents unfold, Christian leaders and their congregations are urging authorities to treat these events as targeted violence against their faith.