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July 11, 2005

Christian Extremists Burn Church?
In Virginia, a United Church of Christ structure was set on fire. Why? Graffiti found in the church indicates that it was because of the recent UCC vote to support gay marriages. It would appear, then, that religious bigots in the South are starting to use violence against other Christians who adopt more liberal stances on homosexuality.

The Staunton News Leader reports:

    The vandalism contained anti-gay messages and a declaration that United Church of Christ members were sinners. The graffiti's message appeared to be a reference to the national church's decision last week to endorse gay and lesbian marriages, Shultz said.

    Firefighters removed a stack of burned hymnals. Police cordoned off the sanctuary, but through the windows a portion of the choir loft and a pew that had been damaged by the fire were visible. ... Smoke damage will keep the congregation out of its sanctuary, but members still intend to have a 225th anniversary celebration this morning. They'll move it onto the front lawn and use tents, Pastor Dorcas Lohr said.

Other UCC churches have been attacked recently, too:

    The vandalism at St. John's is the third time in the last seven months that a Shenandoah Valley United Church of Christ has been vandalized. Two churches, one in Rockingham County and one in Harrisonburg, were damaged in December.

Given the extremist rhetoric used by the Christian Right to attack gays, it's little wonder that something like this occurred — indeed, it's surprising that it hasn't happened more often. Gays and those who support gay rights are commonly compared to terrorists and accused of working to bring down all of western civilization. A violent reaction to something like that is predictable.

When you demonize opponents, then your opponents will be treated like demons — and demons aren't force with which one compromises or which one treats honorably. Demons must be destroyed, and the sooner the better....