Introduction to the Incident
A man is accused of urinating on the Altar of the Confession at St. Peter’s Basilica on Friday, prompting a swift response from security personnel and drawing the attention of many visitors. FILE – The St. Peter’s basilica is seen from inside on November 1, 2017 in Vatican City, Vatican. (Photo by Laszlo Szirtesi/Getty Images)
Response to the Incident
Security staff and plainclothes police officers quickly intervened and escorted the man out of the church, according to multiple Italian news outlets. The incident occurred in full view of a large crowd, with footage circulating widely online.
Vatican Response
Vatican officials had not immediately issued a statement, though some reports indicated that Pope Leo was informed and "shocked to learn of the news." The episode is the latest in a series of disturbances at the basilica in recent years. In February, another individual damaged ceremonial items on the same altar, according to the Catholic News Agency.
Previous Incidents
MAN FACES HATE CRIME CHARGES OVER ‘HUNDRED PLUS’ EXPLOSIVES, THREATS OUTSIDE CATHEDRAL AHEAD OF SCOTUS EVENT. "This is an episode of a person with a serious mental disability who has been detained by the Vatican Police and then placed at the disposal of the Italian authorities," Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said in a statement to ANSA. A similar incident occurred in 2023, when a Polish man staged a protest near the altar, prompting the Vatican to hold a penitential rite afterward. REMAINS OF HISTORY’S MOST BELOVED SAINT, ST FRANCIS OF ASSISI, TO BE DISPLAYED IN RARE EVENT.
Details of the Incident
The man reportedly undressed and climbed onto the altar, with the words "Save children of Ukraine" written on his back. "As officers of the Vatican Gendarmerie approached, the man did not resist but cooperated as they led him to the police station inside the Vatican," Vatican News reported at the time. "After confirming his identity, he was handed over to the Italian police and issued an expulsion order." LGBTQ CATHOLICS MARCH THROUGH ST. PETER’S BASILICA IN JUBILEE RITE AS VATICAN CALENDAR ENTRY STIRS CONTROVERSY.
Canonical Implications
Under the Code of Canon Law (Canon 1211), serious acts committed in a sacred place that cause scandal to the faithful are considered violations of the site’s holiness. When this occurs, public worship is suspended until a penitential rite is performed to restore the sanctity of the church. According to the Ceremonial of Bishops, such rites – often a Mass or a Liturgy of the Word – should take place as soon as possible following a desecration.
Conclusion
The incident at St. Peter’s Basilica highlights the need for increased security and vigilance at sacred sites. The Vatican’s response to the incident, including the detention of the individual and the potential for a penitential rite, demonstrates the importance of maintaining the sanctity of these sites. Stepheny Price covers crime, including missing persons, homicides and migrant crime. Send story tips to stepheny.price@fox.com. Read more from FOX News Digital, including news on Religion, Crime and Public Safety, and World News.
FAQs
Q: What happened at St. Peter’s Basilica?
A: A man urinated on the Altar of the Confession, prompting a swift response from security personnel.
Q: How did the Vatican respond to the incident?
A: The Vatican detained the individual and issued a statement, with Pope Leo reportedly "shocked to learn of the news."
Q: What are the canonical implications of the incident?
A: The incident is considered a violation of the site’s holiness, and a penitential rite may be performed to restore the sanctity of the church.
Q: Are there any similar incidents that have occurred at the basilica?
A: Yes, there have been previous incidents, including a Polish man staging a protest near the altar in 2023.
