A Chestnuthill Township church has been vandalized, resulting in $1,000 worth of damage.

State Police at Fern Ridge said the incident occurred between 9 p.m. Tuesday and 9 a.m. Wednesday at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Effort.

Police said an unknown person spray painted graffiti on the aluminum siding of the church at 164 Merwinsburg Road, which resulted in damage to its aluminum siding.

The graffiti included the phrase “Arbeit macht frei,” a German phrase meaning “work sets you free,” a slogan known for appearing on the entrance of Nazi concentration camps.

The church posted a statement Wednesday on its Facebook page in response to the act of vandalism.

“WHY would anyone do this to a Church, for one and TWO We are NOT rich and are pro community. We love our neighbors (and) are always ready to help others. So sad. BUT we will clean this up and move on. Bless their hearts. We welcome ALL who wish to worship with us. There is NO logical reason for this. Just PURE HATE. I’m sure whoever did this doesn’t even know our congregation or how we help our community! If they do, I pray for their soul.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact state police at Fern Ridge at 570-646-2271.