Paris: France has once again witnessed an alarming attack on a Christian place of worship, as Islamist extremists stormed the Notre-Dame de Bonrepos church and assaulted its priest. Though the incident occurred on May 10, details are only now coming to light.

Following Saturday Mass, a group of about 15 young men approached parish priest Father Laurent Millan, initially expressing interest in converting to Christianity. However, the encounter took a shocking turn when the group began shouting blasphemies against Christ. Suddenly, they turned violent, shouting “Allahu Akbar” as they physically assaulted Father Millan and looted church property, including his cassock, a checkbook, and a painting.

“They entered the church ridiculing our faith, then threatened to return and burn the church to the ground,” said Father Millan. He credited the composure and restraint shown by parishioners for preventing the situation from escalating into something more tragic.

Just days earlier, on May 7, another troubling incident occurred during a parish meeting. A different group of youths reportedly shattered the church windows and made off with candles and a computer.

“The church is located in a high-crime neighborhood. The bravery and calmness shown by the faithful deserve praise,” said Archbishop François Fonlupt in response to the events.

This latest attack adds to a growing pattern of hostility faced by Christian communities in France, highlighting an alarming rise in violence against churches, clergy, and believers in 2025.