A self-described religious prophet claiming to be an agent of divine judgment was arrested after allegedly threatening violence at a Southern California abbey, authorities said.

According to CNA, Joshua Michael Richardson of Alabama is accused of bringing a stash of weapons to St. Michael’s Abbey in Silverado and making threats rooted in apocalyptic religious beliefs.

On August 28, Richardson was taken into custody after police responded to reports of criminal threats against the abbey, located in the Santa Ana Mountains east of Los Angeles. The monastic community is known for maintaining traditional liturgical practices, including the celebration of Michaelmas.

According to officials, Richardson had earlier attended Mass at the abbey on August 26. During that visit, he reportedly followed a priest into a private area and made unsettling and cryptic remarks alluding to violence and death.

Authorities allege that Richardson later sent an email threatening to "do the Lord’s reaping" at the church shortly before his arrest. The email, referenced in a September 3 statement by the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, prompted heightened concern and further investigation.

Man Allegedly Declared Himself 'Angel of Death'

Richardson purportedly identified himself as “Michael the angel of death” when speaking with law enforcement. He claimed to be fulfilling a divine mission and cited the biblical “rider of the pale horse,” a figure associated with death in the Book of Revelation.

According to officials, Richardson explained that he targeted St. Michael’s Abbey specifically because it is one of the few churches in the U.S. that continues to observe Michaelmas, a feast honoring the Archangel Michael.

When police searched Richardson’s vehicle, they discovered a collection of weapons, including brass knuckles, knives, a sword, and multiple loaded gun magazines. The nature of the weapons raised further alarm, given the religious and violent imagery in his communications.

Authorities Highlight Risk to Places of Worship

Richardson’s charges include making criminal threats, along with two felony counts for illegal possession of a dagger and brass knuckles. Officials say the situation could have been far more dangerous had the threats escalated into action.

Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer issued a strong statement about the sanctity of religious spaces. “Churches represent the most sacred places of worship and of peace,” he stated.

Spitzer added, "No one should have to worship in fear that a stranger would walk through the door with the intent to carry out their own day of judgment and determine who lives and who dies."

Deadly Event Elsewhere Adds to National Alarm

Richardson's arrest occurred one day after an unrelated and tragic incident—a mass shooting at a Catholic school in Minneapolis on August 27. That attack left two children dead and around 20 others injured, further rattling faith communities nationwide.

The Minneapolis shooter, identified as Robin Westman, reportedly left behind a manifesto discussing mental health struggles, marijuana use, and issues related to gender identity before dying by suicide. Authorities have not indicated any connection between Westman and Richardson.

Despite the back-to-back events, law enforcement officials have emphasized the importance of vigilance without jumping to conclusions regarding religiously motivated violence. Both cases, however, raise continued questions about access to weapons and the role of mental health in public safety threats.

Investigation into Motives and Background Continues

At this time, no further details have been released about Richardson’s mental health status or any history of similar threats. His specific interpretation of religious texts and ideas remains a focal point of investigative interest.

Prosecutors are preparing their case against Richardson using both the contents of his threats and the weapons found in his possession as central evidence. A court date has not yet been publicly announced.

Authorities continue to gather additional context, including whether Richardson intended to come back to the abbey or had targeted any individuals specifically. Police say the swift response helped avert a potential tragedy.