State officials have increased security at places of worship after an attempted arson at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan.

Worshipers attending Good Friday and Passover services saw an increased police presence Friday, particularly at Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark.

People attending services in Newark say that they are glad to see the added safety measures.

“It’s the job of the government or the police to keep us secure, so I don’t mind that there is added security. Especially in times like this. It’s different. It’s a different time now,” says visitor Jason Manalastas.

Hasbrouck Heights resident Marc Lamparello, 37, was charged with attempted arson and trespassing. NYPD officials say that Lamparello was found inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral Wednesday night with two canisters of gasoline, two lighters and lighter fluid.

Essex County officials say that two days earlier, on Monday night, Lamparello was charged with trespassing for refusing to leave the cathedral in Newark.

Lamparello worked at Seton Hall University as a philosophy adjunct professor. He also worked at Brooklyn College and most recently at Lehman College in The Bronx. He has since been terminated from that position.