Masked Suspect Vandalizes Three NYC Churches With Anti-Christian Messages While Carrying LGBT Flag

Three churches in Far Rockaway, Queens, were vandalized in the early hours of October 5 after a masked suspect spray-painted anti-Christian messages on their buildings while carrying an LGBT pride flag. The NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force is leading the investigation, calling the spree a targeted attack against Christian institutions.

Timeline of the Incident

Refuge Church of Christ – 1:40 a.m.

The suspect approached the Refuge Church of Christ on Mott Avenue and spray-painted the phrase “anti-gay cult” across the front of the building.

City of Oasis Church of Deliverance – 1:44 a.m.

Just minutes later, the same individual moved to the nearby City of Oasis Church of Deliverance, leaving similar hostile graffiti directed at Christians.

St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Church – 2:00 a.m.

The final attack occurred at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Church on New Haven Avenue. Along with anti-Christian phrases such as “cult” and “Welcome Cult Members,” the suspect also defaced two religious statues, painting over their faces.

Surveillance images show the suspect walking a bicycle, wearing dark clothing, sunglasses, a blue baseball cap, and a rainbow face covering, while holding the pride flag during the vandalism.

Church Leaders Respond

Father Francis Shannon of St. Mary’s said the incident left parishioners “heartbroken,” emphasizing that while the vandal carried an LGBT flag, the act appeared to be the work of an individual rather than a broader movement.

The Diocese of Brooklyn condemned the attacks as “absolutely disgraceful”, thanking law enforcement for taking the incidents seriously.

Why This Matters for Pastors and Churches

1. Increased Need for Security Awareness

The incident highlights the growing need for enhanced church security, particularly during nighttime hours.

2. Opportunity for Pastoral Guidance

Pastors may need to help believers navigate responses rooted in peace, avoiding hate while standing firm in faith.

3. Strengthening Community Witness

Despite tensions symbolized in the attack, church leaders can reaffirm love, dialogue, and resilience in the face of hostility.

4. Ministry to Affected Congregations

Churches targeted by hate crimes often require emotional and spiritual support as they process fear, anger, or confusion.

Call to Prayer

PastorsInfo encourages prayer for:

The congregations of the three vandalized churches.
Law enforcement, as they work to identify and apprehend the suspect.
Healing and unity for Christians in New York responding to acts of hostility.
Peace and reconciliation in communities experiencing ideological tension.