Vandalism was discovered in the Villanova University Law School Chapel on Tuesday, Aug. 27, prompting an investigation by campus authorities. The chapel, located in Scarpa Hall, sustained damage to several items. No other areas were affected.
In response, the University issued a statement to law school students, confirming the involvement of the authorities.
“The Villanova University Police are investigating the incident and have identified a suspect who may be responsible,” the statement read. “The individual has been administratively removed from campus pending further investigation.”
As the investigation remains ongoing, the University is unavailable for further comment.
According to the University website, the chapel aims to provide a quiet space for future attorneys and Villanovans to reflect, meditate and celebrate weekly Mass, bringing together a community united by faith. Unverified reports suggest that candlesticks were thrown across the chapel, pages from the Bible were ripped out and the words “Pedro was here” were scribbled in the New Testament. Since the chapel was the only building targeted, it is reasonable to infer that this act may have been motivated by anti-religious sentiment. While these claims have not been officially confirmed by campus authorities, the potential destruction of a religious space has understandably stirred strong emotions.
The incident has prompted discussions on campus about the sanctity of shared spaces.
Third-year law student Ryan Silverstein spoke about the impact he believes this destruction will have on the Villanova community.
“In the short term, I think this act of vandalism will bring the community together,” Silverstein said. “People of all races, faiths, ethnicities and political ideology have all joined together in voicing their disgust for the desecration of a place of worship. In the long term, I don’t think this will change any of the current dynamics in the law school.”
Tory Belval, a second-year law student, expressed similar sentiments on the mindlessness of such a hateful act.
“We didn’t hear much about the incident outside of our Dean, but it was a senseless act that was clearly done on an important day for the University,” Belval said. “I’m glad that the person who did this should be brought to justice soon.”
Villanova officials expressed deep concern over the vandalism, emphasizing how the act conflicts with the University’s core principles.
“This incident is extremely upsetting as it goes against our community ideals and the values of veritas, unitas and caritas (truth, unity and love) we hold dear at Villanova.”
University faculty and police have been commended by students for their swift action and transparency in addressing the incident. Their efforts are seen as crucial in restoring a sense of safety and trust within the campus community.
When asked about the appropriateness of Villanova’s response to the vandalism, Silverstein expressed confidence in the University’s actions.
“As soon as the vandalism was discovered, they moved the Wednesday afternoon Mass to a different room and called the state police to investigate,” Silverstein said. “They took statements from students and conducted a thorough investigation.
The School of Law also sent out a message informing the community of what occurred and has been nothing but transparent since the incident. Villanova deserves praise for refusing to hide in the shadows and being so transparent with the student body.”
The incident brings up important conversations surrounding campus security and access. Villanova University remains focused on addressing the aftermath of this incident, ensuring justice is served and reinforcing the values that define its community both currently enrolled and alumni.
