Swastika, Pride Flag Thefts Target Temecula Church; Pastor Responds With Hope

TEMECULA, CA — After a swastika was spray-painted on Temecula United Methodist Church and its pride flags repeatedly stolen, Pastor Drew Davis is responding with a message of hope, opening the church doors to anyone seeking peace and reflection on Election Day.

The church remained open for prayer and meditation until noon Tuesday, Nov. 3, welcoming anyone in the community who needs a quiet moment before voting.

The invitation comes amid a Riverside County Sheriff's Department investigation into vandalism and thefts targeting the church, which has become a welcoming space for LGBTQ community members and others seeking connection and support.

The incidents began following the Temecula Valley Pride Celebration, held Oct. 17 in the church parking lot.

"I came to church on the 18th, and that evening, we found our Pride flag was stolen," Davis told Patch. "Then, on Monday morning, I got a phone call that a swastika was painted on the back of the church. Later that evening, someone stole another Pride flag."

Davis said the property's security cameras were not working at the time, but repairs were scheduled for Tuesday.

"I didn't share this initially as a hate crime; however, I feel now that this should be considered exactly that," Davis told Patch.

The Riverside County Sheriff's Department is investigating the incidents. "Deputies were informed on Oct. 27 and collected evidence but did not locate any suspects," Lt. Dierdre Vickers said. "There have been no arrests made, and the investigation remains ongoing."

Davis said deputies from the Southwest Sheriff's Station have been supportive.

"The sheriffs were very supportive," Davis said. "I was quite pleased with the conversation. They drove around the community and investigated paths someone may have used to reach the building."

Despite the incidents, Davis said the church has found encouragement in the community's response.

"Through this, it has shown me how much the community is noticing what we are trying to do," he said.

That work includes hosting Temecula Pride celebrations, two queer proms (with a third in the planning stages), and advocating for LGBTQ awareness at Temecula City Council and local school board meetings.

Davis said those efforts are helping build a support network throughout the Temecula Valley.

Finding Hope Through Chosen Family

For Davis, the church's mission extends beyond Sunday services. He believes community connections, particularly the concept of chosen family, can help people through difficult times.

"We can find hope in places where we aren't looking for it," Davis said. "I have become very open to the concept of adoptive family."

He said support does not always come from traditional family relationships.

"If we look around, we find an unexpected place, and someone waiting to be a caregiver," he said. "May not be a birth parent or a blood sibling, but it is chosen family that has become our foundation to get through things."

Even the vandalism has reinforced the importance of the church's outreach. A donations link is open to replace the stolen flags and paint over hateful marks left on the building.

"When our community became faced with this, first the graffiti, then the stolen flags, I heard many say that this is a horrible thing," he said. "They'd say, 'I'm angry about this, but we're getting their attention.' It matters what we're doing here. They have responded with hope and help. Thank you to those who want to be part of our image of hope, and to those who will not let fear win."

Other Temecula congregations have also offered support.

"United Church of the Valley has always been a great friend. Hope Lutheran has reached out to us; they are great sibling churches," Davis said. He added that on Tuesday, Temecula City Councilmember Zak Schwank stopped by the church while Mayor Jessica Alexander emailed a message of support.

"It was a blessing to have Zak Schwank from the Temecula City Council come to the church for a tour today. I have also received a wonderful email from Mayor Jessica Alexander. It is a blessing to serve in a city that supports its community partners with their presence and care," the pastor wrote on Facebook.

Moving Forward With Remembrance Service

The church is continuing preparations for its Transgender Day of Remembrance service, scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 19, despite the recent incidents.

The evening service will include music, speakers sharing stories of transgender people who have died, reflections on grief and community support, and a reading of names honoring those who have lost their lives.

"Even with this hate crime happening, we, without hesitation, are moving forward with our plans for Transgender Day of Remembrance on Thursday, Nov. 19," Davis said.

For Davis, continuing that work is part of the church's commitment to providing a place where community members can find acceptance, connection and support.

More information about Transgender Day of Remembrance is available at TransgenderDayOfRemembrance.org.

“Our goal is to maintain a welcoming and affirming space for all, ensuring that all are loved and of sacred worth in the eyes of faith and in the heart of grace," Drew states on the church's website.

Temecula United Methodist Church remains a welcoming, affirming, and reconciling congregation, according to its website.

"All who seek God are welcome. Join our TUMC family to participate in worship, education, fellowship, ministry and mission, regardless of race, color or ethnicity, age, marital status, gender, sexual identity, expression, physical or mental ability. “Anyone who comes to me, I will never drive away” (John 6:37). This is a place where you will find welcome, support, comfort, and strength for your life."

Learn more at: temeculaumc.com.