Basnayake Keith Spencer, 37, appeared in court via video link from his place of remand, The Straits Times reported.

Spencer was unrepresented during the hearing and the police prosecutor applied for a three-week remand period for a medical examination.

On Saturday, Father Christopher Lee, the parish priest of St Joseph’s Church, was stabbed during a special morning mass for children. The attacker was disarmed by members of the congregation and subsequently arrested by the police.

According to court documents, Lee sustained an 8cm laceration on his tongue, a 3cm cut on his upper left lip and a 4cm wound on the corner of his mouth

Lee is reportedly in stable condition and recovering at the National University Hospital.

The court has fixed a further mention of the case on Dec 2. If convicted, Basnayake may face life imprisonment or be jailed for up to 15 years. He may also be liable to caning and/or a fine.

Earlier, Singaporean police confirmed there was no indication of terrorism or religiously motivated motives behind the attack.

In response to the incident, additional patrols have been deployed at places of worship. The Archbishop of Singapore, Cardinal William Goh, has announced a review of security protocols at local parishes.