10-11-2024 (SINGAPORE) A Catholic priest is recovering in hospital following surgery after being stabbed during a children’s mass at St Joseph’s Church in Upper Bukit Timah on Saturday evening, with authorities ruling out religious motivation for the attack.
Father Christopher Lee, the parish priest, was assaulted by a man wielding a foldable knife during communion at the monthly children’s mass. The Archbishop’s Communications Office confirmed on Sunday that Father Lee’s surgery to close his wounds was successful, and he remains under medical observation in stable condition.
“While we appreciate the community’s concern, we are requesting that well-wishers refrain from hospital visits to allow Father Chris adequate rest,” the office stated, encouraging prayers for his recovery instead.
The incident occurred during a special mass where children typically perform duties usually handled by adults. Quick-thinking members of the congregation, including the Archdiocesan Emergency Response team, successfully subdued the attacker. Police later discovered four additional weapons in the assailant’s possession.
The 37-year-old suspect, identified as a Singaporean of Sinhalese descent who is not a regular churchgoer, will face charges of voluntarily causing grievous hurt with a dangerous weapon. If convicted, he could face up to 15 years’ imprisonment, along with potential fines and caning. Authorities will seek his remand at the Institute of Mental Health for psychiatric evaluation.
Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam revealed that the suspect had previously identified himself as Christian to immigration authorities and has a history of serious assault and drug-related offences. Police investigations indicate he acted alone, with no evidence suggesting terrorist involvement.
Despite the shocking incident and heavy rain, Sunday services proceeded as scheduled, with parishioners attending in substantial numbers. Police maintained a visible presence around the church premises, with patrol cars monitoring the area as worshippers gathered for mass.
