Beijing, China, Dec 4, 2005 / 22:00 pm
Sixteen nuns, who were defending a church building from attacks, were severely wounded when 40 uniformed young men armed with sticks raided the church and beat them.
The U.S.-based China Aid Association, citing "reliable sources," said the young men rushed into a Xi'an City church Nov. 22 at about 6 p.m. Two hours later, a bulldozer started tearing down the church.
China Aid said officials from the government's religious affairs bureau came to the site, and the destruction was halted until the next evening.
The nuns suffered severe wounds, including eye injuries and broken legs. Four remain in hospital.
China Aid described the attackers as "government-hired gangsters."
Nonprofit organizations have repeatedly documented attacks against Catholic and Protestant churches in China that are not officially registered with the government.
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
At Catholic News Agency, our team is committed to reporting the truth with courage, integrity, and fidelity to our faith. We provide news about the Church and the world, as seen through the teachings of the Catholic Church. When you subscribe to the CNA UPDATE, we'll send you a daily email with links to the news you need and, occasionally, breaking news.
As part of this free service you may receive occasional offers from us at EWTN News and EWTN. We won't rent or sell your information, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Click hereOur mission is the truth. Join us!
Your monthly donation will help our team continue reporting the truth, with fairness, integrity, and fidelity to Jesus Christ and his Church.
Donate to CNA