Christian communities across Queens, New York City, were left stunned after three churches were defaced with anti-Christian graffiti in the early hours of October 5. Police report that the suspect spray-painted messages such as “cult” and “anti-gay cult,” and vandalized two religious statues during a 20-minute spree. Surveillance footage shows the man wearing an LGBTQ pride flag and a mask while committing the acts.
Father Francis Shannon of St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Church said, “It was really heartbreaking learning about the vandalism. I was at my mother’s house, and as soon as it happened, I got sent pictures. So, when I woke up, I saw them, and it was just really sad.” He added, “I think this is more of a statement than a hate crime, so just an anti-institution kind of stuff.” Father Shannon also stated, “I don’t think this is a big part of the LGBTQ movement since he had the flag. I think he’s just the exception.”
Police are investigating the incidents as hate crimes, though no arrests have been made.
