Hi Zach,

You're probably wondering what your name is doing on a banner in front of Parkside Community Church!

Well, we saw you hacking down our pride flag the other night, right around 10:30 pm, when it was dark enough to give you some cover. The companion who was waiting in the car kept yelling encouragement at you, which is how we got to know your name.

After you hacked through the straps we noticed that you ran off with our flag.  We're not sure if you intended to keep it or destroy it, but either way, we're concerned because you looked really angry and awfully anxious.

Did you know that we've had about 20 banners vandalized in the past three years? Mostly pride or transgender flags, but also Black Lives Matter banners. We're always  sad and disappointed when our banners are destroyed. The one you vandalized most recently is called a Pride Progress flag. It's based on the original rainbow flag and it celebrates the diversity of the LGBTQ community while also calling for a more inclusive society. So having it cut down seems pretty ironic to us.

Anyway, since we had such clear evidence of this vandalism - what some might consider a hate crime, actually -  our church council thought about sharing it with the Sacramento Police Department. We agreed though, that taking that path wouldn't be consistent with who we are as a community. 

You see, we believe that no matter who you are, or where you are on life's journey - you are welcome here. At Parkside Community Church, we are a caring community, pursuing justice, practicing diversity and promoting spiritual journeys.

So here's the deal Zach; if you’re still feeling angry or anxious and you want to talk about it click below! We can have someone give you a call to talk - or just to listen. Your reply will be private and you can just let us know the best way for one of our ministers to contact you for a conversation.

In Peace, 

Parkside Community Church 

P.S. If you're NOT Zach, but you found your way to this page and would like to learn more about Parkside and our open and affirming approach to Christianity - please enter your information below as well. We'll have someone follow up.