An Absolute Disgrace....

Yesterday at my church, a nun was attacked by an intruder. I am sick over this and can't seem to shake it. I know my church is not in the best area of Newark, but that is certainly not an excuse for such measures. My parents grew up in this area (they both received all their sacraments at this church, as well as the sacrament of marriage) but with time it has changed. I have called this church my home for several years now and most of the parishioners (who have since moved to other areas of NJ) have never forgotten their childhood parish. They continue to attend the services. When attending this church, I am very careful where I park and usually do not go there at night unless I am accompanied.

Part of the article in our local newspaper:

At about 11 a.m., Sister Obiama was doing work in her convent cell at St. Lucy’s Parish when she heard a noise, said Jim Goodness, spokesperson for the Newark Archdiocese. She got up to investigate and discovered a man inside the nunnery.

The assailant repeatedly punched and kicked the 55-year-old nun and stole a laptop before running off from the parish, a complex of buildings made up of the church, a rectory, and the convent on Amity Place in the Central Ward, said Rich Wohltman, the church sexton.

Sister Obiama came away from the attack with a large knot on the side of her head. She was sent to a local hospital and was expected to be released soon, Goodness said.

"She is being evaluated and we’re very hopeful what harm was done is very superficial," he said.

No arrests have been made in the case and her attacker remains unidentified, said Detective Josephine Santaniello, police spokeswoman.


I read the part where she was punched and kicked several times and my stomach turns. How could anyone do such harm to a nun. Actually to anyone. I just think my mind can't wrap around the thought of harming a nun.

Sal and I do all the travel arrangements for the nuns of St Lucy's. We have spoken to Sister Obiama on several occasions. She is very sweet and my heart is broken for her. I know from the article she will be alright and we will reach out to her superior Sister Henrietta to see if there is anything we can do.

I know the economic state is not the best and I also know many don't have jobs. But damn it, hurting the helpless is not the answer for a quick buck. Own up to yourself, and try to do the best with what you have. This simple sentence should have been instilled into this thoughtless thug by his/her parents. So shame on them and their elders. Just so senseless.

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