Catholic Priest Attacked by Disturbed Church-Goer (Video)

A peaceful night of prayer turned violent Tuesday as a Catholic priest in Spokane, Washington, was assaulted inside the Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes.

The shocking attack unfolded before a congregation gathered for a sacred Novena for Healing, a nine-day prayer leading to the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, revered by Catholics as a patron of healing and peace.

The incident occurred as the Rev. David Gaines prayed alongside Bishop Thomas Daly. Without warning, a man seated in the front pew leapt from his seat and charged toward the altar. As worshippers gasped in horror, the assailant struck Father Gaines squarely in the face.

“It was like watching a nightmare unfold,” said Mary Callahan, a longtime parishioner who witnessed the attack. “One minute we were praying, and the next, chaos.”

Despite the surprise blow, Gaines quickly acted, grappling with the attacker and pinning him to the ground. Church staff and congregants rushed to assist, restraining the man until security intervened. The cathedral’s live stream captured the unsettling moment, including muffled shouts and the frantic rustling of pews as attendees scrambled to react.

Father Darrin Connall, the rector of the cathedral, maintained composure in the face of turmoil, calling for security as the attacker’s incoherent yells echoed through the sanctuary.

“We pray for that disturbed gentleman,” Connall told the shaken congregation once order was restored. “May God bring him the healing he so clearly needs.”

Authorities later confirmed the suspect was arrested and charged with assault and trespassing. His identity has not been released, and officials have not disclosed a motive for the attack.

Despite the shocking events, the Novena for Healing continued the following evening. Bishop Daly, Father Gaines, and Father Connall led another prayer service, standing resolute in their faith.

“We’re fine, just a little shaken,” Connall said, addressing worshippers. In a moment of levity, he joked that Father Gaines should wear a square bandage—reminiscent of the one President Trump famously donned after surviving an assassination attempt in July 2024.

The congregation responded with laughter and applause, a testament to their resilience and unity in the face of adversity.

“This is our church,” said parishioner Robert Jenkins. “We won’t be intimidated by violence. We will pray, we will heal, and we will stand strong in our faith.”

The suspect is expected to appear in court Thursday. Church officials urge prayers not only for Father Gaines but also for the attacker, hoping he finds the peace he so desperately lacks.