A shocking attack at the Santo Espíritu del Monte monastery in Gilet, Valencia, has left seven religious members injured, with one in critical and another in serious condition.
The assault took place on Saturday morning when an unidentified man, described as being between 30 and 40 years old, broke into the monastery and attacked several friars in their rooms before fleeing into the surrounding hills.
Initial death report revised
Earlier in the day, a spokesperson for the Archbishopric of Valencia had mistakenly reported the death of a 76-year-old friar who had sustained severe head injuries. However, it was later confirmed that the injured man remains alive. He is currently in critical condition being treated at Valencia’s Clinical Hospital. The attack, which occurred around 10.00 am, also left three others—aged 57, 66, and 95—with non-life-threatening injuries, including contusions and blunt force trauma.
Attacker still at large
The alleged assailant entered the monastery early in the morning, targeting the friars who were in their rooms. According to witnesses at the scene, the man used sticks and a bottle as weapons while shouting, “I am Jesus Christ, and I am here to kill the friars.” The Guardia Civil is currently searching for the attacker in the nearby mountainous area. Authorities have not released further details about the man’s identity, and the motive remains unclear.
Religious community appeals for peace
The religious community at Santo Espíritu del Monte expressed deep sorrow for the incident. They condemned the violence and offered prayers for both the victims and the attacker. In a public statement, the monastery emphasised the need for reflection and heightened vigilance to prevent similar incidents in the future. “We also pray for the attacker, hoping he realises the harm done and finds a path away from violence,” read the statement. “This event calls on us all to be more vigilant in safeguarding our fraternity against harm.” The monastery urged the community to remain united in support during this difficult time.