The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore has announced that Fr. Christopher Lee, Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Church in Bukit Timah, was attacked by a knife-wielding man during the 5:30 p.m. Mass on November 9, 2024.
In a press release from the Archbishop’s Communications Office, it was confirmed that congregation members, including the Archdiocesan Emergency Response Team, quickly intervened to subdue the attacker.
Paramedics from the Singapore Civil Defence Force then transported Fr. Lee to the National University Hospital, where he is currently undergoing treatment. The Singapore Police Force has taken over the investigation.
The archdiocese has urged the faithful to remain calm and refrain from speculation on social media while the police continue their work. “The Church does not condone violence of any kind,” the statement read, also calling for prayers for Fr. Lee's recovery, for the assailant, and for parishioners—especially children—who may have been impacted by the traumatic event.
Affected parishioners are being offered counseling support through Catholic Family Life therapists.
Cardinal William Goh, Archbishop of Singapore, expressed profound sadness and concern over the incident. “I am deeply shocked and saddened by this act of violence against one of our priests, especially within the sacred space of Mass. I am also very concerned about the psychological impact on our children and all who witnessed the attack,” he stated.
The Cardinal urged the community to remain calm, avoid passing judgment without full knowledge of the facts, and allow the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation.
He added, “We must trust in God to see us through these painful moments. Let us also pray for those who seek to create division through violence and fear, that God may enlighten the assailant with His mercy, leading him to find forgiveness and healing.”
The archdiocese will continue to provide updates on Fr. Lee’s condition and the investigation as more information becomes available.
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