LGBTQ-affirming church in South Austin, Texas, vandalised and Pride Flag torn down

A church known for its inclusive stance towards the LGBTQ+ community has been vandalised in South Austin, United States, prompting a wave of support and solidarity from local residents.

Life in the City United Methodist Church (UMC) was targeted late Thursday night. Vandals defaced the building with spray paint, scrawling the message “Pride was the first sin” across its front façade. The church’s Progress Pride flag was also torn down in the attack.

In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, the church expressed sorrow but reaffirmed its commitment to radical inclusivity. “Sadly, our beautiful church space was vandalised… by those who clearly oppose our mission,” the post read. “But we shall NOT be moved, except toward bringing the ‘kin-dom’ of God to earth, where all of God’s precious children are loved and affirmed.”

Pastor Glenn Luhrs noted that this was not the first time the church had been targeted. He linked the incident to a broader pattern of hostility, referencing a recent assault on a trans woman. “These are not isolated events,” Luhrs said. “They are part of a growing pattern of violence and dehumanisation targeting LGBTQ+ people and other marginalised communities.”

Despite the damage, the church’s spirit remains unbroken. On Saturday morning, community members gathered to repaint the vandalised area, transforming the act of hate into a moment of unity and resilience.

“Our doors will remain open to everyone—always, all ways,” Luhrs affirmed.