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On Friday, June 13, Beavercreek United Church of Christ (UCC), a church in rural Clackamas County, was vandalized when an unknown person or persons threw a brick through three historical stained-glass windows (view news story). This is not the first incident of vandalism the congregation has experienced, and members of the church attribute these attacks to the fact that they are an antiracist and LGBTQ+ open and affirming church. Everyone should be able to worship freely without fear of attack.
Frank So, EMO executive director, stated:
Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon stands with our UCC community in Beavercreek, Oregon. We are reminded of The Rev. Dr. MLK Jr’s words that only love will overcome hate. Last month, EMO held a very successful Collins Lecture in Pendleton on how faith communities can continue to support the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. We must continue to engage in this dialogue and be civil with one another.
As an ecumenical organization, we know and celebrate the plurality of Christian theology and beliefs; however, there is no place for violence when disagreements about these beliefs create friction. EMO hopes to be an organization that encourages and facilitates these difficult conversations as we condemn this violence and hope for peace.
If you missed the Collins Lecture on May 29, you may watch it now: "A Call to Justice: How Faith Communities Can Support LGBTQIA2S+ Rights."
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