In the early hours of the previous night, unidentified individuals vandalized the shrine area in Medjugorje, causing significant damage. They set fire to the recently renovated external altar, which was quickly extinguished before spreading to the church building. The perpetrators defaced religious statues, including the image of Mary, painted offensive messages on the pedestal, and left graffiti with anti-Medjugorje slogans. Transparent signs with derogatory messages were also displayed. The police are investigating the incident and searching for the culprits. The local parish office expressed deep sorrow over the vandalism, stating they immediately began cleaning and repairing the damaged areas to restore the sacred spaces for worship. They thanked those who contributed to maintaining the site as a place of peace and devotion. The shrine remains open for pilgrims, and the prayer schedule continues as usual. The incident occurred shortly after the feast day of Saint Jacob and just before the annual youth festival, which is scheduled to begin later this week.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual account of the vandalism at a religious site without overtly taking a political stance. While the event has cultural and religious significance, the reporting focuses on the actions of the perpetrators and the responses from local authorities and the parish office. No黨





