Police Investigating Burglary, Attempted Arson at State College Church

State College police are investigating after someone broke into and attempted to start a fire inside Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Centre County.

Rev. Carol Thomas Cissel, minister of the church at 780 Waupelani Drive Extension, said an individual or individuals broke in by smashing the window of a religious education classroom. Once inside, they attempted to start a fire on the floor, causing additional minor damage.

The damage was discovered by a board member on late Sunday afternoon.

Cissel added that the rest of the church, including the sanctuary, was unharmed.

Anyone who may have information about the incident to contact the State College Police Department at (814) 234-7150, by email or by submitting an anonymous tip through the department’s website.

“Violence is never the answer,” a statement from the UUFCC board said. “We continue to believe in the goodwill of our neighbors and the kindness of the State College community. Our fellowship is a steady beacon of light for all – for those on the margins, for those who are considered the other, for everyone hoping, wishing, and praying for justice and desiring a better world. That will not change.“

Cissel said “we live in troubling times,” that have people worried and incidents like this cause further anxiety.

“It’s senseless and there’s no reason for people to be violent like this,” she said.

“It’s painful. This is our home. This is our community… We’ll keep doing what we do, which is spreading peace and trying to change the world.”