He still wasn’t sure what had happened until he saw multiple police officers arriving and heard the term “aggressor” used.

He then spoke to some parishioners seated near the front. They said there was some commotion and the priest retreated but was stabbed near the mouth.

The congregation member told CNA that he stayed in the church to pray but was asked to leave the area outside the service hall by police officers.

SUPPORT MESSAGES

Following the attack, many religious-based organizations made statements.

AMP Singapore, a non-profit organization serving the Muslim community, wished Father Christopher a speedy recovery and said any form of violence “is unacceptable and should not be tolerated”.

The Sikh Advisory Board also expressed a similar thought, noting that places of worship are sacred spaces. He also urged people to remain calm and not speculate about the incident.

LoveSingapore, a Christian movement, also condemned the attack: “We stand with our brothers and sisters in the Catholic church who condemn violence in any place of worship.”

Describing the attack as “senseless”, “unprovoked” and “horribly disgusting”, the Singapore Buddhist Federation said that people of all faiths would come together to pray for Father Christopher’s speedy recovery.

The Interfaith Organization (IRO), which aims to promote harmony between different faiths, called on the public to show support for the Catholic community.

“These are times to demonstrate interfaith compassion and social harmony, as we always do in Singapore,” the IRO said.

“Let’s stay calm and unite in love and solidarity.”

Additional reporting by Abigail Ng.