Published: November 03, 2009 11:49 am      

Church vandalized

Ada — Church members are searching for answers as to why, and who, spray painted racial slurs on their church.

The church, Philemon Missionary Baptist Church, is located in the Hammond Heights neighborhood which is predominately African-American.

The graffiti, discovered Thursday morning, was sprayed on a window, the front doors and the church’s sign.

The window was spray painted with the words “White Power” while the doors contained numerous threats, phrases and words including n***** and f***.

Ada Police Sergeant Terry McNeal responded to the vandalism Thursday morning and spoke with one of the church’s deacons, Herbert Colbert and his wife Blondell.

“They said they had no suspects,” McNeal said. “I told Mr. and Mrs. Colbert I would make a report and for them and other church members to watch out for anyone suspicious around the church.”

McNeal left after getting the information but was called back when someone discovered the church sign also had been vandalized.

“Apparently it had been removed from its stand and had been laid against some bushes with the spray painted side facing the ground,” McNeal said. “The writing was in red and said, ‘White Power’ and was signed ‘KKK.’ There was also a symbol of a ‘T’ lying on its side intersecting with a ‘V.’”

Blondell Colbert said the church does have insurance but said she finds the messages “very disturbing.”

The church was organized 100 years ago and the current building was constructed in 1962.

The church averages 25 to 30 active members.

Ada Assistant Police Chief Carl Allen said the matter is under investigation and said anyone with information on this crime can phone CrimeStoppers at 33CATCH or 332-2824, remain anonymous and earn a reward.