NORFOLK, Va. — Recently, someone left homophobic messages outside of a Ghent United Methodist Church in Norfolk's Ghent neighborhood, and both church members and neighbors are upset. Someone wrote hate speech on signs, the flagpole and even took a sign from the front of Ghent United Methodist Church.
The incident left some neighbors feeling uneasy.
"It's upsetting and scary," said neighbor Robert Sites. Others believe the action does not represent the neighborhood.
"This is not reflective of the people in Ghent," said Mark Bonney.
Someone left hateful messages on the signs and the flagpole and even stole a sign from the front of the church.
Bonney has lived in Ghent for more than 35 years. He says he has visited the church and believes it's unfortunate this happened.
"Is it shocking? Is it sad? Is it bad? Absolutely. Is it reflective of our community? No," said Bonney.
Ryan Schaeffer is the pastor of Ghent United Methodist Church. He says he's shocked because it's not the first time the church has recognized Pride Month. They also recognized it last year, and no incidents occurred, according to Pastor Schaeffer.
However, Pastor Schaeffer says he will not stand for hateful speech.
"We aren't [backing down] just because someone had vandalized our sign. If anything, it proves to us how necessary our support for that community is," said Pastor Schaeffer.
Meanwhile, longtime resident Mark Bonney has a message for the person or people responsible for the message.
"We forgive you. We trust that things will be different and you are loved," said Bonney.
Police are investigating the incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact the police.
Pastor Bonney says church leaders have not decided whether to take legal action.