By Voice staff

Vandals defaced an outdoor altar and damaged a baptismal font and gazebo at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Pittsburg last month.

While the property has been hit by minor vandalism in the past such as a broken sprinkler head, it has never been this extensive, said Deacon Ken Wedge, who lives with wife, Corky, in housing on another part of the parish property.

“I’m sad about the vandalism,” he said. The property rarely gets locked up at night because “most people respect it and care for it.”

The vandalism occurred on a part of property developed by the parish into a kind of park initially for parishioners. It has also become a neighborhood haven where residents of all ages can meditate, walk or play. The site, separated from the church by a driveway, includes an expanse of lawn and trees, play areas for children, a volleyball court and a basketball court in addition to the altar and font.

The park was built with donations from parishioners under the supervision of Father Helmut Richter, who has been pastor since 1997.

The recent damages in the park took place in early July, according to an interview that Father Richter gave to the Contra Costa Times. He was on vacation and unavailable for comment when The Voice went to press.

It is a beautiful park that has become “a fun place to be,” Deacon Wedge said. “In the evening you can hear a bunch of teens playing basketball on the court or see groups having picnics there. It is a really nice connection to the community.”

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