Catholic School Vandalised in California; Federal Investigation Launched

California, Feb 5, 2026: Shock and sorrow spread through the Catholic community in Long Beach, California, after a school and parish centre was vandalised during the early hours of February 2. Intruders broke into Holy Innocents Catholic School, leaving behind widespread damage.

School officials discovered scenes of destruction, including shattered religious statues, damaged sacred artwork and scattered liturgical books. A tabernacle, which holds the Eucharist, was knocked to the ground and damaged, an act parish leaders described as a desecration rather than mere vandalism.

Authorities classified the incident as vandalism and burglary, estimating the financial loss at approximately USD 100,000. Federal authorities later announced that a civil rights investigation had been launched to determine whether the attack was motivated by religious hatred.

Despite the shock and grief, the parish community chose to respond with prayer and unity. The day after the incident, students, families, clergy and parishioners gathered for a Mass of reparation, seeking spiritual healing and restoration.

Auxiliary Bishop Marc Vincent Trudeau of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles led the Mass of reparation, offering words of healing and hope to the affected community. He encouraged the faithful to respond to the violence with forgiveness, faith and renewed trust in Christ.

Leaders of the school acknowledged the emotional toll on students and staff but reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the campus and supporting those impacted. As investigations continue, the Holy Innocents community has begun the process of rebuilding both its facilities and its sense of peace through prayer and solidarity.

Source: OSV News