Intruders Defile Church: Foul Surprise of Excrement Found on Nave and Altar Disturbs Parish Priest
On Tuesday, November 25, an unsettling incident occurred at the San Nicola di Bari Church in Ostia, Rome. The parish priest, Don Cosmo Scardigno, was alerted by his secretary to the defilement of the church premises.
Details of the Incident
Upon arriving at the church, located on Via Gian Carlo Passeroni 1, just across from the G.B. Grassi Hospital, Don Scardigno discovered a disturbing scene. Unidentified individuals had entered the church and left human excrement in various areas, including the main altar. This act is a significant display of disrespect and blasphemy towards the religious space.
Community Reaction
- The local community expressed outrage and sorrow regarding the incident.
- Cardinal Baldo Reina and Monsignor Renato Tarantelli Baccari condemned the vandalism.
- They proposed a solemn Mass as a form of reparative gesture for the spiritual injury inflicted.
In addition to the reactions from religious leaders, the parish priest has called upon secular organizations to show support. There is a collective hope for a thorough investigation by law enforcement to identify the culprits.
Similar Past Incidents
This incident draws parallels to an event that occurred on October 10 at St. Peter’s Basilica. During that event, a man was filmed urinating on the altar, leading to similar measures of purification proposed by Pope Leo XVI.
Both occurrences highlight a growing concern regarding the protection of sacred spaces and the community’s response to such acts.
As of Wednesday, November 26, 2025, there has been no further development regarding the investigation or additional statements from church officials.
