(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The First Congregational Church in Downtown Colorado Springs is dealing with repeated vandalism of its rainbow banner.
The banner reads “A just world for all”, with the goal of expressing acceptance, peace, and love. The congregation is known as a “just peace” church, meaning it’s open and welcoming to everyone. The inclusive banner has been ripped down this week for the fourth time in just six months.
“It has happened periodically in past years, but never this frequently,” said Emily Bond, the Director of Administration and Communications at the First Congregational Church of Colorado Springs.
The only evidence left outside the church is a broken bungee cord and an empty hoop where the banner used to be.
While a banner can be ripped down, the church said its spirits can’t be. Bond said they pray for the people responsible.
“We won’t let these acts of violence dishearten us. It saddens us, (but) we don’t want them to influence us in changing our views because (our views are) strong, and we welcome everyone, and that’s what we want to continue to convey,” said Bond.
The church has already re-ordered the banner and hopes to have the new one within the next week. The church also said it costs about $200 to replace the banner each time.
