After Arson, Renton Church Forges On With 'Affirming' Mission

RENTON, WA — Whoever set out to destroy the LGBTQ Pride display at the Renton United Christian Church in June only succeeded in making it bigger.

In the weeks since the June 19 arson incident, the church has forged on with its mission of inclusiveness, the Rev. Cynthia Meyer said Tuesday. There have been no vandalism incidents since June 19, and the church has added a new rainbow-colored sign over the front door. To help the poor, the church plans to open a little free pantry (similar to a little free library) offering food and other goods to anyone who needs it.

Meyer said the media attention from the arson resulted in an outpouring of support, including countless cards and letters. The church has also received more visitors, even from people who don't typically go to church.

"Folks who don't consider themselves religious are drawn in by the fully welcoming and affirming message," she said.

For Pride month, members of the church put up six doors painted the colors of the rainbow Pride flag. Each door had a word on it to complete the phrase, "God's doors are open to all." It was the first year the church set up such a display.

The doors were knocked over a few times, but around 2:30 a.m. on June 19, someone set off small explosives at the display, blowing holes in the doors.

"We were aware not everyone would agree with the church taking the position," Meyer said. "It was a little more hostile than we had anticipated with the use of an explosive. We really didn't think it would come to that sort of thing."

The Seattle FBI office is investigating the arson, and has put up a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. The FBI has received a number of tips related to the arson, but could not say if any suspects have been identified.

"The FBI Seattle Field Office would like to thank the public for providing tips and assistance in the Renton church defacement investigation. We still ask anyone with information on this matter to please contact law enforcement. Any piece of information, even if it seems small, could help law enforcement solve this case," an FBI spokesperson said via email on Tuesday.

In the days after the arson, the church repaired the damage and added a new door with the phrase "love wins" painted on it. The LGBTQ doors at the church came down at the end of Pride month, but the "love wins" door is still standing.

"We're not deterred by the violence, but we're very encouraged by the outpouring of support and the folks who want to work for a beloved community," Meyer said on Tuesday.