Beyond the economic impact—a vital sum for the parish’s upkeep during the summer, the peak donation season—what has hurt the faithful the most is the symbolism of the act: the attack on a place of faith and generosity.
Newsroom (02/08/2025 20:01, Guadium Press) On the night of July 30-31, 2025, the parish of Sainte-Marie-de-la-Baie, located in Granville, France, was the target of a premeditated robbery that left the local Catholic community in shock. The parish house, located on Saint-Nicolas Street, was violently broken into by unknown individuals who stole approximately €6,000 in cash and checks from collections taken during Masses, baptisms, and weddings.
Father Régis Rolet, the parish priest, discovered the crime early on Thursday morning. “The door was ajar. Inside, the office had been broken into, as had the metal cabinet and the safe. Everything was gone,” he said with regret. After the discovery, the police quickly arrived to begin their investigation and take fingerprints.
Beyond the economic impact—a vital sum for the parish’s upkeep during the summer, the peak donation season—what has hurt the faithful the most is the symbolism of the act: the attack on a place of faith and generosity. “Many humble families contribute what they can. We live exclusively on these donations, and losing them compromises our mission,” said Father Rolet.
The case has reopened the debate on the growing vulnerability of churches in France. According to Tribune Chrétienne, this type of crime not only affects church finances but also represents a direct blow to charity and the silent commitment of believers. “Who cares about the future of neighbourhood parishes, which depend on such fragile resources?” asks the publication.
While waiting for the authorities to identify those responsible, the parish is working to reorganize its activities and reinforce security at the site. However, the case hints at a deeper crisis: the loss of awareness of the sacred and the common good in today’s society.
This attack adds to a series of similar incidents in other regions of the country, highlighting the lack of protection for places of worship. The situation has led religious leaders to request state and community support to ensure that these spaces can continue their spiritual and social work.
Despite the pain, the community of Sainte-Marie-de-la-Baie remains united. “We will move forward with renewed hope. What has been stolen is money, but what they cannot take away from us is our faith,” concludes the parish priest.
Compiled by Dominic Joseph
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