Donald Ray Hurt, 65, of 510 Broad St., Newark, told police "that the Holy Spirit told him to," Sgt. Jennifer Lynch said.
Officers were called by the custodian of the Basilica of Saint John the Evangelist at 279 Atlantic St. after finding a completely naked Hurt in the church, police said.
He was charged with third-degree burglary, third-degree criminal mischief and disorderly conduct. His bond was set at $2,500, and his first scheduled court date is April 4.
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