France: Vandalized church saved from burning down by a passerby; Mayor calls to “promote dialogue and understanding between different religious and cultural communities in our city”

The perpetrators knocked over the candles on the floor, damaged the picture frames and damaged a crucifix. They caused a fire. Fortunately, a passerby intervened in time: he was able to extinguish the flames and call the fire department. (…)

The mayor of Cugnaux immediately condemned these acts and expressed his solidarity with the Catholic community. “To ensure coexistence in Cugnaux, it is crucial that we collectively stand against hatred and intolerance by promoting dialogue and understanding between the different religious and cultural communities in our city” (…) “Diversity is what makes us strong and proud, so let’s stick together and mobilize so that Cugnaux remains united, resilient and determined to confront intolerance and violence.”

Cugnaux is indeed a community where several religious communities coexist: Catholics, Muslims and Buddhists. “These religious communities have always lived well together in Cugnaux,” said Albert Sanchez, who expressed surprise and shock. “It is the first time we are dealing with this kind of doings on a religious building”. France 3 Régions

https://www.fdesouche.com/2023/05/29/cugnaux-31-leglise-vandalisee-sauvee-de-lincendie-par-un-passant-le-maire-appelle-a-favoriser-le-dialogue-et-la-comprehension-entre-differentes-communautes-religieuses-et-culturelles/