Post by Joanna on Jan 28, 2017 2:01:34 GMT -5
Satanists Vandalize Arkansas Church and Cemetery
MELBOURNE, Ark. — Police are seeking information after a church and cemetery in Arkansas were vandalized Saturday, January 12, were spray-painted with messages such as “Death to God,” “Satan be with you” and “666.” Both the interior and exterior of the church were vandalized, as well as headstones in the cemetery.
According to the Izard County Sheriff's Department, Deputy Steve Davidson found the headstones and the inside and outside of the church had been spray-painted with graffiti along with what is believed to be various Satanic symbols. It was noted the cemetery hasn’t had any new burials since October of 2016. Sheriff Tate Lawrence called the vandalism a “horrendous act” and is asking that anyone with information call his office. There are no named suspects at this time.
The community has likewise condemned the actions of the vandals, with several noting they either have family members buried at the location or were married there. Some have volunteered to help clean up the graffiti.
“This very unsettling. We have family buried in this cemetery,” wrote Erica Holt Brandon. “This is a horrible act made by ungodly people. Yes, they should be prosecuted for this act. They also need prayers for their souls.”
“I got married here and this is very upsetting,” remarked Valarie Valentine McMahill. “It was always a great place to go and be in the quiet and pray and talk to God, but now someone has ruined that.”
“My mammaw and great great grandparents are buried here, along with many other family members,” said Allie Calvert. “Whoever did this, I hope you feel better about yourself with your immature act. And I honestly feel sorry for you for feeling the need to do this in such a beautiful place. You clearly need help.”
Last May, a church cemetery in Redfield was damaged when almost 80 headstones were knocked over and/or broken, and items left to honor the dead were strewn about the graveyard. Cemetery workers who were preparing for a burial discovered the damage, which a representative of Orion Mission Baptist Church reported to police.
Source: Heather Clark, Christian News, January 26, 2017.