The attack took place on the 10th of October around noon in São Mateus church in the town of São Mateus do Sul located in Paraná state in southern Brazil, Catholic News Agency reported.

“Our statues were broken, but our faith is firm,” said the pastor of the parish, Father José Carlos Emanoel dos Santos, at an Oct. 11 press conference.

The priest said he was grateful for the many expressions of solidarity they have received.

Among the images that were destroyed were the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Our Lady of the Assumption.

The priest stressed that “evangelical brothers” also sent notes repudiating the vandalism, “something that we also appreciate.”

Photo credit: Diocese of União da Vitória