Leaders from various faiths in Singapore unite in condemning the stabbing of a priest at St Joseph’s Church, emphasizing peace and solidarity.
Singapore’s religious leaders from Islam, Hinduism, and Judaism have united in condemnation of violence following the stabbing of a priest at St Joseph’s Church in Bukit Timah. On November 9, 2024, the Mufti of Singapore, Dr. Nazirudin Mohd Nasir, expressed his shock at the attack and extended his support to the Catholic community. He emphasized that violence, especially in sacred spaces, has no place in society, calling for solidarity among all faiths to protect places of worship and maintain peace.
In his message to Archbishop William Goh, Dr. Nazirudin expressed his hope that the incident would not sow division but instead strengthen the resolve to preserve harmony. He also conveyed prayers for the quick recovery of Father Christopher Lee, the priest who was attacked while conducting evening mass. The Mufti reiterated the importance of reinforcing the peaceful nature of all religious teachings.
The Hindu Endowments Board and Hindu Advisory Board also condemned the attack, expressing sadness and solidarity with the Catholic community. In a joint statement, they stated that violence has no place in society, especially in sacred spaces designed for peace and reflection, and extended prayers for Father Lee’s recovery.
Similarly, Chief Rabbi Mordechai Abergel of the Jewish Welfare Board described the incident as distressing. He expressed support for the Catholic community and called for peace, healing, and strength across all faiths. The Taoist Federation also voiced their rejection of violence, encouraging a culture of peace, respect, and understanding.
The Inter-Religious Organisation, which represents 10 faiths, including Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, and Christianity, condemned the attack, stressing that violence in places of worship cannot be tolerated.
The attack occurred as Father Lee was conducting mass. The assailant, who was armed with five weapons, was subdued by members of the congregation and arrested by the police. The suspect, identified as 37-year-old Basnayake Keith Spencer, a Singaporean Sinhalese man, was charged with voluntarily causing grievous hurt with a dangerous weapon. Preliminary investigations suggest he acted alone and are not treating the attack as an act of terrorism. Father Lee is in stable condition after successful surgery and remains under medical supervision.
Authorities continue to investigate the case as Singapore’s religious communities stand united in promoting peace and condemning violence.
