“Today that statement drives our ministry in all areas of our church, from our building and grounds, to our worship, to our engagement in the community,” the church’s website explains.
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Despite multiple threats, one of which was Penny’s alleged arson attempt, the church continued with its scheduled “Drag Queen Story Hour.”
“Despite three vile threats from hate groups, we are moving forward and we are confident in our security plan,” the church posted on Facebook. “We desperately wish to communicate to well-meaning supporters and community members that they should stay home if they are not coming to our events with a ticket. We are grateful for the support but we do not want anyone to be harmed by potentially violent hate groups.”
Community Church of Chesterland thanked those involved with the investigation who led to the quick apprehension of Penny. While the church expressed forgiveness toward Penny, they “would like to see him prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law as a way to send a message to other like minded people and groups that violence as a form of coercion to advance any kind of agenda is unacceptable in 2023.”
