A 59-year-old New Bedford man was arrested Monday evening after police responded to a reported disturbance at Mount Carmel Church on Bonney Street, where a priest was allegedly assaulted during a confrontation.
New Bedford Police officers were called to the church shortly after 5:15 p.m. for reports of a man arguing with a priest. When officers arrived, they observed Jose Nascimento, 59, involved in a physical altercation with the priest and a bystander who had intervened.
According to police, Nascimento entered the church and began knocking items from the altar. A physical confrontation followed as the priest attempted to escort him outside.
The priest suffered a minor facial injury after allegedly being punched and struck with a beer can. He was transported to St. Luke’s Hospital for further evaluation.
Nascimento was arrested and charged with:
• Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon
• Assault and Battery
• Threat to Commit a Crime
• Disturbing the Peace
• Disorderly Conduct
In a statement on Facebook, Father Chris, the priest involved, said he is doing well while being checked at St. Luke’s Hospital. He said the incident occurred during confessions and adoration and that the man allegedly attempted to take the monstrance.
Despite the attack, Father Chris said:
“I forgive him. I am just glad nobody else was hurt.”
He also thanked the New Bedford Police Department, ambulance crew, and St. Luke’s Hospital staff for their response and care.
Father Chris ended his message with a request for compassion:
“Pray for that man!” 🙏
