The victim was allegedly followed out of the ceremony at St Stephen’s Church in Sneiton, Nottinghamshire, by the 20-year-old suspect and stabbed in the abdomen.
Police rushed to the scene at around 10.50am on Easter Sunday, where they found the victim.
The suspect is believed to have been a fellow member of the congregation who had attended two or three times before, while the victim is understood to have been a regular churchgoer.
The stricken man was rushed to hospital for surgery and his injuries are not believed to be life threatening.
Meanwhile, the alleged attacker was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm and remains in police custody.
Lynda Blakely, the curate of St Stephen’s told The Telegraph: “All I can say is that our thoughts and prayers are with everybody affected by this very difficult situation.”
Another church source said: “Obviously the Church and everyone there is very upset.”
A third added: “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone involved.
“Churches do not want this to be happening at any time, least of all on Easter Sunday.”
Nottinghamshire Police confirmed that they do not currently believe that the attack was a hate crime and have appealed for witnesses.
DCI Mark Dickson said: “Officers were called to Dale Street, Sneinton on April 9 following reports of a serious assault.
“Police arrested a 20-year-old man shortly after the incident on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and he remains in custody.
“An investigation has since been launched to establish what happened and, despite the large police presence in the area, I’d like to reassure the public that there is no wider threat to the community.”
Anyone with information regarding the attack is encouraged to contact the force on 101.
Those who wish to make an anonymous report can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.