Saint Lucia today marks the 25th anniversary of the deadly attack on worshippers at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Castries, an event that shocked the nation and left a lasting impact on the Catholic community and the wider public.
The attack occurred during the early morning Mass on December 31, 2000, when two assailants entered the cathedral and set upon worshippers. In the aftermath, Sr. Theresa Egan, SJC, was fatally assaulted outside the sacristy and later died from her injuries. Scores of people were injured in the incident, with thirteen requiring hospitalization.
Among those hospitalized were Fr. Charles Gaillard, Sr. Mel Kenny, SJC, and several lay worshippers. Six of the injured suffered severe burns and were airlifted overseas for specialized medical care in Martinique and the United States, while others with serious head injuries were transferred to Barbados for treatment. Fr. Charles Gaillard later succumbed to complications from his injuries.
The perpetrators were arrested shortly after the attack, charged, and eventually sentenced to life imprisonment following legal proceedings that drew regional and international attention.
Twenty-five years on, the tragedy continues to be remembered as one of the darkest moments in Saint Lucia’s modern history. The anniversary has renewed calls for reflection, prayer and remembrance, as well as initiatives to honor those who lost their lives. Church leaders have encouraged the faithful to preserve the memory of the victims—often referred to as the Martyrs of Saint Lucia—as a legacy of faith, resilience and national unity.
