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A statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church in Wembley was attacked by unidentified individuals, leaving the statue reduced to rubble and an empty plinth in its place. The destruction occurred on the night of August 6 or in the early hours of August 7, according to the parish office. The incident is currently under investigation by the police.
The parish community expressed deep sadness over the attack. “The Parish community as a whole is saddened by this mindless act,” a staff member from the parish office said. “But we will utilize this opportunity to strengthen our faith.”
The church, located in the Brent Deanery of the Diocese of Westminster, was originally built in 1901 and consecrated in 1957. The statue of Mary had been moved from a grotto at the front of the church to an alcove on the side of the building, facing the street. Social media images purportedly show the destroyed statue, with only broken pieces of white masonry remaining on the ground.
This incident comes amid a wave of unrest in the UK following the tragic killing of three young girls during a knife attack at a dance class in Southport. The event has sparked nationwide turmoil, with demonstrations, protests, and riots breaking out across the country. Various groups, including anti-immigrant and far-right factions, as well as counter-protest and anti-racism groups, have been involved in the disturbances. During this period, hotels housing migrants and other buildings have been vandalized, raising concerns about escalating violence and intolerance.
The English bishops have condemned the outbreaks of violence, especially those targeting asylum seekers, refugees, and immigrant communities. Paul McAleenan, the bishop responsible for refugees in the Bishops’ Conference, denounced the mob attacks and praised the work of charities and volunteers who have supported the affected families and businesses. He emphasized the importance of prayer, solidarity, and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
“Today, and always, we need to continue to pray, work, and stand together for peace in our country,” Bishop McAleenan said. “The actions of the few involved in violence stand in stark contrast to the work of charities, church groups, and volunteers who tirelessly extend the hand of welcome to migrants in acts of solidarity.”
Bishop Tom Neylan, auxiliary bishop for Liverpool, also called for calm, urging the use of non-violent means to resolve societal issues and bring about the peace and healing needed in these turbulent times.
The destruction of the Virgin Mary statue at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church is a poignant reminder of the deep divisions and challenges facing the UK during this period of unrest. The church community, however, remains resilient, drawing on their faith as they work to rebuild and restore peace in their community.
