Ankeny Church Asks Vandals to Return Flags

From the Des Moines Register

Three flag poles were torn down and flags from Ghana, Japan and China were stolen Friday from , 2110 W. First St. in Ankeny. Church officials reported the incident to the the next day.

The church’s Flags of Nine Nations represent the nine countries of first generation families that have come to St Anne’s as members from around the world. The flags are blessed on the altar and raised every fall. They are sacred to our members and the families they represent, said The Rev. Bob Kem, rector of St. Anne’s.

“We are sad that this senseless vandalism was done with no thought behind it,” Kem said. “Please pray for those who may not have understood the spiritual importance of these flags and the many peoples they represent.”

Church officials are asking that the flags be returned – no questions will be asked.