The Unitarian Universalist Society in Vineyard Haven has flown the rainbow flag since 2003 as a symbol that we are a welcoming congregation. We fly this flag so that passersby know that here they are safe and welcome, so that teenagers know that they are not alone, so that all in the LGBT community know that we fully affirm the worth and dignity of ever person. Over the weekend our flag was stolen; the pole was forcibly pulled down and the flag cut off. It was a shock to our community that this could happen here on this friendly Island of warm, caring people. Perhaps this was a random act of vandalism or perhaps a statement against our views. Until our new rainbow flag arrives, we want the community to know that we continue to stand on the side of love, to support the civil rights, promote understanding, and welcome gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered people. Our doors and our hearts are open to the extraordinary richness and diversity of human life.

In peace and love.

Rev. Bill Clark and Dorie Godfrey
Vineyard Haven