The Sunday after the Fourth we learned that our “You Are Loved” rainbow flag had been stolen from the church, along with the pole and mounting bracket. The flag’s symbolism is very broad. It encompasses our response to God’s call to love all people, all races, colors, nationalities and our LGBTQ+ siblings, friends and neighbors.
We have no idea who might have done this, nor why. Perhaps it was someone who really liked the flag and decided they had to have it. Perhaps it was someone who disagreed with what it stood for and wanted it gone. We don’t know and we can only make assumptions.
The theft of the flag may seem like a small thing on the surface, but the hurt experienced by the congregation goes deep. Still, we remain committed to expressing love and support for all people, including our LGBTQ+ siblings, friends and neighbors. We remain committed to the non-violent way of Christ.
We know that not everyone agrees with what the flag symbolizes. We recognize how blessed we are to live in a country where freedom of religion and expression are protected by the Constitution.
We are very appreciative of local law enforcement’s responsiveness. We do not seek retribution or punishment for whoever did this. We want you to know that we forgive you.
We also want it known that we’ll be putting up another flag. If it gets taken down, we’ll put up another, and another and another. As a local faith community that is fully open and affirming of our LGBTQ+ siblings, friends and neighbors, this theft has reaffirmed the necessity of our unwavering visible support.
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