HILLSBOROUGH -- The Hillsborough United Christ of Church prides itself on the inclusion of everyone regardless of race, gender or sexual orientation.
The church's pastor says that won't change despite vandals burning two entry way, rainbow flags over the weekend.
"I kind of thought someone might be bold enough to steal them, but the burning feels a little more intense,” said Jay Kennett, pastor of the Hillsborough United Church of Christ.
In the fallout of our state's new non-discrimination law, House Bill 2, the church decided to put up the colorful flags as a reminder that all are welcome, including those in LGBTQ community.
"We believe in the teachings of Jesus, that Jesus reached out to all people, and that as Christians, we are called to do the same -- that we are called to reach out to all people, to love all people,” said Kennett.
Kennett put up two new flags within a few hours of finding the charred ones Saturday morning.
Now, support for the small church grows by hundreds on social media.
The executive director of The Open and Affirming Denomination, Andrew Lang, offered his words of encouragment on
"We're proud of you, Hillsborough UCC! Know that ONA churches around the country are celebrating your ministry of justice, inclusion and love today!"
Kennett says the incident only adds fire to his purpose.
"The powerful message that I have received is that in the midst of these struggles about discrimination and religious libery bills and bills like HB2, that folks want to reach out and say, 'We stand with all people. We stand with the LGBT community.’"