August 2, 2025

Dear Beloved Community,

With heavy hearts, we grieve the recent act of vandalism at Life in the City United Methodist Church in Austin. Hateful graffiti was scrawled on their building, and the rainbow flag—long a sign of radical hospitality and Christ-like welcome—was torn down. This was not merely an attack on property; it was an attempt to strike at the very heart of who LITC is.

Life in the City is a vibrant, faithful community grounded in the love of Christ. It boldly proclaims the sacred worth of every person and affirms that all are beloved children of God—created in the divine image, named, known, and deeply loved. That includes our LGBTQ+ siblings, whose lives, witness, and gifts continue to enrich the life of this church and the broader body of Christ.

To those in our community who may feel especially vulnerable or afraid in light of this hateful act: you are not alone. We see you. We stand with you. We love you.

As the leadership of the Rio Texas Conference, we stand in full solidarity with Life in the City. We affirm their unwavering commitment to the gospel of love, justice, and welcome. And we echo their message that hate has no home in our churches.

In the face of hate, we respond with love. In the face of fear, we choose courage. In the face of destruction, we rebuild with hope. And yes—as followers of Jesus—we also choose to forgive. We do not excuse or diminish the harm done. But we remember that no one is beyond the reach of God’s mercy and transforming grace.

In the days ahead, the damage to the building will be repaired. But more importantly, Life in the City—and all of us across the Rio Texas Conference—will continue to proclaim and embody a gospel where love triumphs over hate and where every person has a place at God’s table.

“Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good.”—Romans 12:21

With grace, resolve, and forgiveness,

Cynthia Fierro Harvey
Bishop, Rio Texas Conference
On behalf of the Cabinet and Conference Leadership

From Hurt to Hope: What Happened at Life in the City UMC

The act of vandalism was heartbreaking, but it did not have the final word. What followed was a mighty outpouring of love. Volunteers, neighbors, and faith leaders showed up to restore what had been damaged and to stand publicly with Life in the City UMC.

The following images show real damage caused by a recent act of vandalism. They include hateful language that may be upsetting, especially for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.
PLEASE VIEW WITH CARE.

**Community Response:** Over 30 people gathered at Life in the City UMC to help repair the damage. Others from the community brought food, water, and encouragement, embodying Christ-like love in the face of hate.

Life in the City UMC is a place where outsiders are insiders. To follow their journey, show your support, and witness the ongoing work of love and restoration, visit them online:

Facebook: facebook.com/LITCaustin
Instagram: @litcaustin
Website: lifeinthecityaustin.org