Satanic Vandalism at Wichita Church Leads to Arrest

Police have arrested a 23-year-old Saline County man in connection with extensive vandalism at St. Patrick Catholic Church of Wichita. The suspect was apprehended Sunday after investigators discovered damaged statues, broken glass, and hate speech graffiti that included writings from a satanic website. The vandal had also burned an American flag.

The attack took place Saturday morning.

“It’s with a heavy heart that we wanted to inform you that our church was vandalized this morning,” the church posted on its website. “Our priests are safe. For this reason, there will be no 5 p.m. Mass tonight as the investigation continues. We will keep you posted in regard to the scheduled events for this weekend and Mass tomorrow.”

The Kansas Catholic Conference, which represents the state’s bishops, called it a “hate crime scene” after viewing the destruction. “After forcing their way inside, statues were destroyed, glass smashed, and other extensive damage exacted upon this sacred space,” the conference wrote. “This is the face of evil.”

“This reprehensible act of vandalism will not be tolerated,” Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan said. “Our officers and investigators worked tirelessly to bring this suspect to justice. I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our dedicated staff, civilian and commissioned. Our commitment to protecting every member of this community remains unwavering.” Sullivan later praised the congregation’s resilience despite the attack.

As reported by Metro Voice, attacks on churches nationwide doubled to more than 400 in 2023 from the previous year, according to the Family Research Council. From January through November 2023, it report found at least 315 acts of vandalism, 75 acts of arson or attempted arson, 10 gun-related incidents, 20 bomb threats and 37 other incidents at churches.

“Although the motivations for many of these acts of hostility remain unknown, the effect is unmistakable: religious intimidation,” said Arielle Del Turco, who wrote the report. “They send the message that churches are not wanted in the community or respected in general, Our culture is demonstrating a growing disdain for Christianity and core Christian beliefs, and acts of hostility against churches could be a physical manifestation of that. Regardless of the motivations of these crimes, everyone should treat churches and all houses of worship with respect and affirm the importance of religious freedom for all Americans.”

–Alan Goforth | Metro Voice