Shepherdstown Presbyterian Church has recently experienced two incidents of vandalism, in the removal of two rainbow decals from our front sign in less than a week. Over the last couple of years, in fact, vandals have destroyed at least a half-dozen decals and flags. At SPC, we see our rainbows as not just nice decorations, but as a visible expression of our commitment to welcome, love and celebrate all of God’s beloved children. They serve as a symbol of our corporate identity as a diverse and diversity seeking progressive spiritual community.

Our particular commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community is something we have been cultivating for at least twenty years, through intensive study of scripture, theology, science, history and human experience, along with countless conversations with one another about our own personal views and experiences. It has not always been easy, but our community has deepened and flourished along the way.

We also know that rainbows, like love, exist whether we see them right now or not. So we want to assure the community that our commitments remain unchanged and that our rainbows will return. In the meantime, we invite everyone to keep an eye out, fly your own rainbow flags and decals, and spread the word so that we all might be partners in preserving the safety of our community.

And, in this season of hope, peace, love and joy, let’s keep reminding each other: goodness is stronger than evil, love is stronger than hate and there is a light in this darkness that no darkness can overcome.

Ethel Hornbeck, Shepherdstown Presbyterian Church director of Spiritual Formation and Campus Ministry