In recent weeks, specifically throughout late 2025 and January 2026, a series of disturbing incidents have occurred at Catholic churches on Staten Island. While the term "Noumous" does not appear in official reports (it may be a phonetic misspelling of "numerous" or a specific name from a local report), the events have sparked significant concern and led to increased police presence.
The most prominent incidents include:
1. Violent Altercation at St. Ann’s (Dongan Hills)
On Friday, January 9, 2026, a 28-year-old man named Matthew Caffrey disrupted a 7:00 AM Mass.
* The Attack: He stormed the sanctuary, smashed a marble statue of an angel, threw flowers, and snatched a Roman Missal and a cross from the altar.
* The Struggle: When the NYPD arrived, the man resisted arrest and fought with officers near the altar. Police had to use a Taser to subdue him.
* Injuries: Two police officers sustained minor injuries. The suspect was taken into custody and hospitalized for a psychiatric evaluation.
2. Vandalism at St. Sylvester’s (Concord)
On Christmas Day 2025, surveillance cameras captured a man entering the church during morning Mass and defecating near the entrance. The pastor, Father Jacob Thumma, noted that the perpetrator appeared to be emotionally disturbed or homeless.
3. Burglary at St. Roch’s (Port Richmond)
On December 28, 2025, an intruder broke into the rectory of St. Roch’s. Although the physical theft was minor (a towel was reported stolen), the breach of the clergy's residence added to the community's sense of unease.
Community and Official Response
* Security Measures: On January 15, 2026, the NYPD and State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton announced a heightened police presence at houses of worship across the borough.
* Motivation: Law enforcement officials have stated that these appear to be unrelated acts of "opportunism, theft, and mental illness" rather than a coordinated hate group or targeted campaign against the Catholic faith.
* Healing: Despite the damage, Father Thumma has called for prayers for the individuals involved, emphasizing the need for better mental health services in the community.
Would you like me to look for more details on the specific legal charges or current security updates for these parishes?
Posts
0 Comments