A PRIEST has been taken to hospital in a serious condition after being assaulted in a church in Co. Down this morning.
The incident occurred at around 10.10am inside St Patrick's Church in Downpatrick.
The priest, believed to be Downpatrick Parish Priest Father John Murray, was struck over the head with a bottle in the attack, which police described as 'shocking and brutal'.
A short statement from the parish said: "Parishioners will be aware of an incident in St Patrick's Church earlier today.
"Fr Murray is currently receiving medical treatment. We thank you for your prayers and well-wishes."
According to police, a man walked into the church on St Patrick's Avenue and hit the priest on the head with a bottle before leaving.
The victim was taken to hospital for treatment, where he remains in a serious condition.
"This was a completely shocking and brutal attack and has left the priest with a serious head injury," said Detective Chief Inspector McBurney of the PSNI.
Fr Murray is believed to be undergoing surgery at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast.
'Disgraceful'
Chris Hazzard, Sinn Féin MP for South Down, condemned the 'cowardly' attack.
"I was shocked and saddened to hear the news from Downpatrick this morning that Father Murray was attacked in St Patrick's Church," he said.
"My thoughts and prayers are with him, and I wish him a full and speedy recovery.
"This cowardly attack is completely unacceptable and I condemn it unequivocally.
"I urge anyone with information to contact the police."
Party colleague Cathy Mason branded the assault a 'shameful act'.
"Horrified to hear of the news coming from Downpatrick today," said the MLA for South Down.
"The attack on Father Murray in St Patrick's Church, Downpatrick, this morning is deeply shocking.
"No one should ever face violence, least of all in a place of worship. This was a shameful act and must be condemned outright.
"My thoughts are with Father Murray and I hope he makes a swift and full recovery."
Meanwhile, DUP MLA Diane Forsythe commented: "Absolutely shocking and disgraceful attack on a religious leader in a place of worship this morning in Downpatrick.
"Wishing him a full and speedy recovery. This violence is completely unacceptable."
Anyone who witnessed the assault, or who has any information that could assist the investigation, is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference 543 of August 10.
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