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Beavercreek United Church of Christ in Clackamas County, Oregon, experienced vandalism last June when three historic stained glass windows were broken. The incident occurred on the night of June 13, during Pride Month. Security footage captured a car arriving at the church around 9 p.m., and a male figure can be seen throwing bricks and rocks at the windows. The attack damaged both the protective plate glass and the stained glass itself.
The Rev. Coqui Conkey, who has served as interim pastor since March, said she believes the church was targeted for its open support of LGBTQ+ inclusion. "Someone intentionally threw bricks and rocks at these windows, breaking the plate glass that protected the stained glass, but also causing some damage to the historic windows themselves," said Conkey. "The windows orginally came from a church in Germany in the 1800s, and they are now being repaired."
Despite this act of vandalism, members of Beavercreek UCC have stated their commitment to maintaining their welcoming stance. Cynthia Andrews, moderator of the congregation, commented on their resolve: "We are a progressive church in a conservative area," said Andrews. "It’s important for us to say we’re not giving in or giving up to those who would do us violence. They can’t silence our voice."
Following the incident, Central Pacific Conference Minister Rev. Tyler Connoley sent an email titled “Sweeping up the glass and picking up the peace,” reassuring recipients that the church remained undeterred by what happened. Connoley described how local media coverage had unexpected positive effects: “They saw this vandalism as an opportunity to amplify their prophetic voice. The reason many of you have heard about the event is because two Portland TV stations picked up the story. And the story on Channel 12 had an amazing, unexpected ripple effect. Later that week, one of our other Oregon churches had a new visitor at a midweek Bible study. The visitor said, ‘I saw the story about the UCC church in Clackamas County, and I was horrified by the vandalism, but I was also impressed by the church’s message of love and inclusion. I wanted a church like that, so I found you.'”
Conkey explained that parishioners discovered evidence of damage just before holding a planned peace protest: “We had a peace protest scheduled in our parking lot that Saturday morning, and when people arrived they found the damage. So, they swept up some of the glass, and went out to the parking lot with their signs. We weren’t going to let that stop us.” She added that while similar acts—such as damaging banners—have happened before at Beavercreek UCC, they continue repairing them.
The congregation has about 70 members with approximately 40 attending Sunday worship regularly; several identify as LGBTQ+, including Conkey herself and some youth members.
Andrews noted ongoing connections with young people: “We have several youth in transition and it’s kind of funny, you know, teens will often pull away from the church during those those years... But [one teen's] father recently told me that his child still considers this their church, and we will continue to be there for them.”
Looking ahead, Beavercreek UCC plans to participate again in September’s Oregon City Pride Fair after finding success at last year’s event.
Conkey highlighted other ways Beavercreek UCC serves its rural community through initiatives such as operating a certified food shelf and hosting annual rummage sales attended by residents across different backgrounds: “This is...a certified food shelf for community...Many who aren’t members come...some are surprised when they find out how progressive we are...it’s just an important way this little church helps people in this conservative community.”
She continued: “It’s a different type of mission work...we are missionaries in our own community. We are known as 'the liberal beacon on the hill.'”
A statement on Beavercreek UCC’s website thanks neighbors for their messages and offers following recent events: “We want to thank our Beavercreek neighbors for...emails,...phone messages,...offers of financial gifts following...recent vandalism....Although appalled by this demonstration of violence,...blessed knowing many...stand with us....If you’d like to support our recovery efforts but aren’t sure how,...please reach out...[or] donate.”
Local sheriff’s deputies continue investigating; no arrests have been made so far.
