A prayer service at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes in Spokane turned chaotic when a priest was assaulted by a disturbed individual.

In a startling incident, a Catholic priest, Rev. David Gaines, was attacked during a Lourdes Novena for Healing at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes, Spokane, New York Post reported.

During the live-streamed February 4, 2025, service, a man suddenly leaped from the first pew and charged the altar, where Bishop Thomas Daly and Rev. Gaines were present.

The attacker struck Rev. Gaines, but quick action from him, church staff, and congregants subdued the assailant. A witness reassured him, saying, “It’s OK, buddy, it’s all right, it’s OK.”

Security Called as Service Is Disrupted

Rev. Darrin Connall quickly called for security as attendees helped restrain the attacker, preventing further harm.

Despite the incident, the service resumed with a prayer for the attacker, reflecting the congregation’s commitment to healing. Rev. Connall praised those who intervened, bringing calm to the shaken attendees.

Cathedral Community Shows Resilience and Compassion

No one else was harmed, thanks to the swift response of the cathedral’s staff. The church later reassured the public on Facebook that Rev. Gaines and Bishop Daly were safe and grateful for the community’s concern.

The next night’s service addressed the incident, with Rev. Connall acknowledging the clergy were shaken but fine, joking that Rev. Gaines might wear a playful bandage as a symbol of their resilience.

Reflections on Healing and Irony During Novena

Rev. Connall told KREM it was ironic that the attack occurred during a novena for healing, noting that the attacker himself needed healing—a stark reminder of the Novena’s purpose.

The suspect was set to appear in court Thursday, though authorities had not revealed a motive, leaving the community to reflect on the incident’s deeper meaning.

Despite the disruption, the attack united the congregation in compassion and resilience, strengthening their commitment to peace and spiritual healing.

Cathedral’s Response Highlights Community's Strength

This event tested but ultimately showcased the Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes’ strength and unity, reinforcing its commitment to spiritual and physical healing through forgiveness and compassion.

Moving forward, it serves as a reminder of the challenges religious communities face and their resilience in times of crisis.