An arson attack at the Pennsylvania governor's residence in Harrisburg has led to widespread condemnation and calls for peace. Cody Balmer, 38, was arrested and charged with attempted murder, arson, and terrorism. Catholic leaders and public officials, including Bishop Timothy Senior of Harrisburg and Bishop David Zubik of Pittsburgh, have expressed shock and offered prayers. The incident occurred during Holy Week and Passover, with Gov. Shapiro and his family safely evacuated. The residence sustained heavy damage, and Balmer admitted to harboring hatred towards Gov. Shapiro.
3 months ago
On April 13, 2025, an arson attack occurred at the Pennsylvania Governor's Residence in Harrisburg while Governor Josh Shapiro and his family were inside 1. The incident prompted widespread condemnation from religious leaders and public officials 1 2.
Cody Balmer, 38, was arrested and charged with attempted murder, arson, and terrorism for allegedly scaling a security fence and setting fire to the mansion using improvised gasoline devices 1 2. Balmer reportedly admitted to harboring hatred towards Governor Shapiro and stated he would have attacked the governor with a hammer if given the opportunity 1 2. The fire caused significant damage to the residence, including multiple rooms, art, and furniture 1.
Catholic leaders, including Bishop Timothy Senior of Harrisburg and Bishop David Zubik of Pittsburgh, condemned the violence and offered prayers for the Shapiro family 1 2. Public officials, such as Pennsylvania Senators Dave McCormick and John Fetterman, along with Trump administration officials like Pam Bondi and JD Vance, also expressed their condemnation and support 1 2. Governor Shapiro expressed gratitude to law enforcement and first responders and emphasized the need to stand against violence 1.
The attack occurred during Holy Week and Passover, adding a layer of religious significance 1 2 3. Governor Shapiro, who is Jewish, had celebrated Passover the evening before the incident 1. Bishop Senior emphasized the importance of eradicating antisemitism and standing in solidarity with Jewish communities 1. Governor Shapiro vowed that the attack would not deter him or any Pennsylvanian from celebrating their faith openly and proudly 2.
The Church addresses violence, justice, and public authority.
The arson attack on Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's residence raises important questions regarding violence, justice, and public authority, viewed through the lens of Catholic teachings. The Church provides guidance on these matters, offering principles that can help to understand and respond to such events.
The Catholic Church condemns violence, yet acknowledges the legitimacy of self-defense and the defense of others under certain conditions . According to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, while defending one's own life or the life of another is permissible, using more force than necessary is considered unjust . Pope Francis emphasizes that any defensive action must be necessary and measured, and that using deadly force must be strictly necessary . The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that legitimate defense can include a lethal blow to an aggressor when necessary . In the context of the arson attack, the Church would unequivocally condemn the violence perpetrated by the attacker, while also acknowledging the right of the governor and his family to defend themselves, if necessary.
Catholic social teaching emphasizes the importance of justice, which includes both retributive and restorative dimensions. The state has the authority to punish wrongdoers to maintain public order and protect the common good, as highlighted in Summa Theologiae . However, punishment should be proportionate and aim at the correction of the offender, when possible . Pope Leo XIII in Humanum Genus teaches that justice must be joined with clemency, equity to authority, and moderation to lawgiving . In the case of the arson attack, justice demands that the perpetrator be held accountable for his actions through a fair legal process.
The Church recognizes the necessity of public authority for the common good. Public authorities have the duty to defend the common good against internal disturbances and external enemies . Pope Leo XIII in Sapientiae Christianae affirms that the Church supports those who strive to make the relations between Church and State work in perfect accord for the common good . The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that those holding legitimate authority must repel all aggression, even by armed force, to the extent necessary to protect their own lives and those of the people entrusted to their charge . The condemnation of the attack by public officials and religious leaders aligns with the Church's teaching on the role of public authority in maintaining order and protecting citizens.
The arson attack on Governor Shapiro's residence is a grave act of violence that the Catholic Church condemns. In response to such events, the Church calls for justice, the protection of public authority, and the importance of upholding the common good.