Anti-LGBTQ Vandalism At Church Sparks Counter-Protest

GENEVA, IL — Before Sunday service, the First Congregational Church of Geneva spent time sending a message to vandals who have destroyed their LGBTQ support banners. The church held a peaceful protest to take a stand against a group that protested the church's pro-LGBTQ stance by distributing anti-gay pamphlets just a week earlier.

Vandals have destroyed at least three banners on the church's property at 231 Hamilton St. In July, the church's rainbow flag was stolen and its "Got Love" banner, which showed images of same-sex couples and a heterosexual couple, was vandalized, according to Kane County Chronicle. The vandals removed the images of same-sex couples, but left the heterosexual couple's image intact.

First Congregational Church of Geneva has been repeatedly targeted for showing support for the LGBTQ and diverse races, cultures, and religions. In June, someone stole a "Love Thy Neighbor" banner that named "gay and straight, Muslim, Christian, Jewish, atheist, black, white, brown, homeless, rich, male and female" as those who should be loved, Kane County Chronicle reported.

At Sunday's protest, more than 170 people —churchgoers and community members— gathered, holding signs emblazoned with rainbows and supportive words, according to Chicago Tribune. The church's pastor, Rebecca Clancy, told Chicago Tribune that the leader of those who recently protested the church's pro-LGBTQ stance believes "gay people are intrinsically sinful."

First Congregational Church of Geneva plans to continue its vocal support of minorities with the help of the community and Geneva Mayor Kevin Burns, who came out Sunday to stand in solidarity.

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