BARRHEAD, Scotland (LifeSiteNews) — A vandal has been charged after setting a crucifix on fire and smashing dozens of headstones at St. Conval’s Cemetery in Scotland on Sunday morning.

Police announced on June 30 that a 39-year-old man, later identified as Grzegorz Strzelecki, was charged with smashing 40 gravestones at St. Conval’s Cemetery, the cemetery for the Diocese of Paisley, and setting the cemetery’s large wooden crucifix on fire on June 29. Since the attack, locals have expressed their outrage at the vandalism carried out where their relatives are buried.

Bishop John Keenan of the Paisley Diocese condemned and expressed his sadness at the “senseless vandalism” and “destructive violence” caused by the vandal in a statement.

“I am saddened and dismayed by this senseless vandalism and the destructive violence behind it. My thoughts and prayers are with the families who have had headstones attacked, as well as with the whole community of relatives and friends who visit St. Conval’s and care for the graves of their loved ones so tenderly,” Keenan wrote in a statement.

“My gratitude goes to the St. Conval’s staff who maintain the grounds and administer the cemetery and who now face the distressing task of repairing and making safe damaged graves while comforting distraught families,” the bishop added.

READ: Tabernacle left exposed during Catholic church demolition symbolizes widespread abandonment of God

Strzelecki was charged with willful fire raising, malicious mischief, being in possession of an offensive weapon, and breaching the peace. He made no plea during his first court appearance at Paisley Sheriff Court on Monday.

Sancta Familia Media emphasized in an X post that this was not simply an act of vandalism but one of blasphemy.

🚨 PAISLEY SACRILEGE
A 39-year-old man has been charged after gravestones were smashed and a crucifix set on fire at St Conval’s Cemetery.

Not vandalism — blasphemy. 🙏 Respond with prayer & reparation.

✝️ Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord…#StConvals #Paisley #Catholic pic.twitter.com/mLQfHf5fcu