AUSTIN, Texas — Leaders of the Life in the City (LITC) United Methodist Church in South Austin reported vandalism at their property ahead of Sunday morning services, including damage to a Pride mural and the display of hateful messages targeting the LGBTQ community and the church.
Church officials said the vandalism occurred on a mural that had been installed in August of the previous year after an earlier incident of vandalism at the site. The church said the latest damage included the removal of flags and additional spray-painted messages similar to those seen in the prior incident.
Crystal Paull, artistic director of the congregation, said church leaders notified Austin police and are allowing investigators to determine any charges. She said the church has not confirmed whether the same individual was responsible for both incidents.
Church leaders said the mural and property have been targeted in what they described as repeated acts of vandalism over several months.
In a statement, the church said it continues to support LGBTQIA+ individuals and other marginalized groups and reaffirmed its commitment to providing an inclusive worship space. Leaders said Sunday services proceeded as scheduled despite the vandalism.
Paull said the church hopes those responsible will stop the behavior and said the congregation extends forgiveness while continuing its mission of inclusion.