Churches destroyed (Kosovo).

Pristina-Since the end of hostilities in Kosovo, June 1999, the return of Albanians to the province has been accompanied not only by revenge attacks on the remaining Serbs (almost all of whom--some 175,000--have been driven out) but also by extensive destruction of Christian church property. Since last year, over 100 Serbian Orthodox churches and monasteries, many of great historical importance--are known to have been destroyed or desecrated. Also Catholic cemeteries in Prizren and Pec have been desecrated and relatives of Catholic clergy are being terrorized by Muslim militants.

Leaders of the Catholic, Serbian, Orthodox and Muslim communities have come together to condemn these acts of hatred. Local clergy and residents, however, have accused the United Nations and their K-FOR peacekeepers of complacency and standing by in the face of these attacks. The latest incident occurred April 28 when an Orthodox church was blown up just before the commencement of Orthodox Good Friday services. Extensive casualties were avoided because the service had been delayed due to the priest's car breaking down. The church was located in the village of Grncar, a region patrolled by American K-FOR troops. (The Voice of Kosovo, Internet)