The title of my blog post and YouTube videos is churches burning across Europe: why is this happening? In recent years, we’ve seen a deeply concerning trend across Europe and the UK: a significant rise in churches being burned, vandalized, or otherwise attacked. This is not a random occurrence. Many of these incidents have been confirmed as acts of deliberate arson, and sadly, Christian persecution is on the rise across many parts of the world, including Western nations where freedom of religion has historically been valued. You can see more posts about the church on my website by clicking here.
In this post, I want to have a closer look at what’s happening, why it’s happening, and what the Bible says about gathering together as believers in difficult times.
Watch the Video: Churches Burning — What’s Really Happening
Churches Set on Fire: A Growing Pattern
Recently, reports emerged of two teenagers arrested in Port Talbot, Wales, suspected of setting an 18th-century church on fire. In Ireland, the historic Green Island Church was destroyed by fire. In Derrybeg, St. Mary’s Church was also reduced to ruins.
Tragically, these incidents are just a few examples among many. In recent years, more than a thousand churches have reportedly been burned or vandalized across Europe. Meanwhile, there has been a significant rise in the construction of mosques, an observation that many find thought-provoking.
News outlets, including Premier Christianity magazine, have reported on the worrying increase in deliberate arson attacks against Christian places of worship. Despite the scale of these events, they are often downplayed or ignored by mainstream media.
In France, for example, the number of church fires and acts of vandalism has hit alarming levels. Investigations into major fires, such as the devastating 2019 fire at the Notre Dame Cathedral, have sparked widespread speculation about whether authorities have been fully transparent about the causes.
Why Are Churches Being Targeted?
At its core, the attack on Christian churches is about much more than damaged buildings. It’s a spiritual battle.
The Bible teaches us that the name of Jesus has the power to break every chain. When Christians gather together to pray, worship, and declare the truth of God’s Word, there is power released into the world.
Satan and the forces of darkness do not want people worshipping Jesus Christ. That’s why the church — the gathering of believers — has always been a target.
In many parts of the world, Christians are openly persecuted, imprisoned, and even killed for their faith. In Europe, the methods are often subtler, but the erosion of religious freedom is becoming more obvious year by year.
What Does the Bible Say About Gathering Together?
Despite these challenges, the Bible calls believers to gather, worship, and stand firm in their faith. Here are some scriptures that remind us why fellowship is so important:
Matthew 18:20
“For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.”
John 4:23
“But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him.”
Hebrews 10:24–25
“And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Psalm 34:3
“Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together.”
The Bible makes it clear: gathering together is vital. It is a source of encouragement, strength, and spiritual power.
A Call to Stand Firm
Today, more than ever, Christians are called to stand firm. We must not be intimidated or silenced by those who oppose the truth of the Gospel. We must continue to meet together, worship boldly, and proclaim the name of Jesus.
The destruction of church buildings, as painful as it is, reminds us that the true church is not a building, but the people of God. As believers, we must be the light in a dark world, pointing people to the hope found in Christ alone.
Are You Searching for Hope?
If you’re reading this and wondering if there’s a way out of the madness you see around you, there is.
Jesus Christ died on the cross for you. He rose again so that you could have eternal life and a relationship with God. He offers hope, forgiveness, and new life to everyone who will believe in Him.
If you would like to begin a relationship with Jesus today, you can say a simple prayer from your heart:
Dear Lord Jesus, I acknowledge You as Lord and Saviour of my life.
I repent of all my sins, and I ask You today to take complete control of every aspect of my life. Amen.
If you prayed that prayer sincerely, know that God hears you, and you now have the promise of eternal life through Him.
Final Thoughts
The burning of churches across Europe is heartbreaking, but we should not lose hope. God is still on His throne. His church will prevail. Let us continue to pray for protection, revival, and boldness to share the Gospel wherever we are.
Thank you for reading. If you have any questions or thoughts, feel free to leave a comment below or directly on my YouTube video. I would love to hear from you. You can see my YouTube channel here.