A historic Catholic church in the heart of Edinburgh has been left reeling after a shocking act of vandalism on Christmas Eve, which saw a statue of the Baby Jesus deliberately smashed.
Christmas Eve Desecration at Historic Church
The attackers are believed to have entered St Patrick’s Church in the Cowgate area of Edinburgh’s Old Town at some point before the Midnight Mass service. Clerics discovered the devastation and shared images of the damaged figurine on social media at around 10.30pm on December 24.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, the church described ‘the attack upon the Child Jesus’ and detailed a wider desecration of relics in the Lady Chapel. They reported acts of ‘violence at the crib in the side aisle, and blood spilled in the sanctuary, side chapel and nave’.
The post revealed this was not an isolated incident, stating: ‘At the Easter Vigil we also had threats made against us; tonight another told us “you’re finished here”.’ The church vowed to bless the building again after cleaning up the damage.
Police Investigation and Community Outpouring
The incident was reported to Police Scotland, who attended immediately after the discovery and again on Christmas Day. In a significant statement, the church clarified that it believed the incident was ‘not sectarian in nature’. The destroyed statue from the nativity scene has since been replaced.
Churchgoers and the wider community were described as heartbroken by the sacrilegious act. However, in a moving response, St Patrick’s has been inundated with ‘very kind and touching’ offers of financial assistance to cover the costs of repairing the original statue.
In a subsequent social media update, the church expressed its gratitude: ‘Thank you everyone for your prayers and concern with Christmas Eve’s desecration.’
A Landmark with a Long History
St Patrick’s Church is a prominent fixture on the Cowgate skyline, known for its impressive façade—a feature that is a relatively modern addition to the ancient site. The church has a deep history, having first opened for worship as a Scottish Episcopal Church in October 1774. It was later established as a Catholic church in 1856.
The current striking frontage, with its grand triumphal arch and high steeple, was designed much later, in 1929. The building remains a vital part of Edinburgh's historic and religious landscape.
Police Scotland and representatives of St Patrick’s Church have been approached for further comment on the ongoing investigation.
