NEWS RELEASE 

 Little Rock, Arkansas (January 11, 2023) –

 Arkansas State Representative Aaron Pilkington (District 45) and Representative Zachary Gramlich (District 50), Representative Brit McKenzie (District 7), Representative Jon Eubanks (District 46), Representative Trey Steimel (District 2), Representative Ryan Rose (District 48) have issued a statement on Friday condemning the damage and theft of property that occurred at the Subiaco Abbey on January 5.

 “When an individual attacks a church, they are also attacking the religious practice of every individual who worships inside those walls,” said Rep. Pilkington. “I’m saddened to hear about the destruction at the Abbey and my prayers are with their congregation.”

 The Logan County Sheriff’s Office announced on Friday they arrested an individual that they believe stole relics and damaged the altar with a hammer. Fortunately, all relics have been recovered, but the congregation is still shaken after the attack.

 “While we do not know the motivation of the individual arrested, we want Arkansans to know that religious violence is not tolerated in our communities,” said Representative Gramlich.

 The representatives would also like to condemn any violence directed at any group of faith in the state and the nation. The freedom for Americans to practice the religion of their choosing is a core belief of our nation. If a congregation doesn’t feel safe, they can never truly be free. These kinds of attacks must be dealt with seriously and harshly in an effort to prevent other attacks on the religious peoples of Arkansas.

###