(FOX40.COM) -- A Stockton church is pleading for action after a series of crimes, vandalism, and other safety concerns have left parishioners feeling unsafe.

Volunteers and leaders at Saint Gertrude’s Church say the violence and property damage have been escalating over the years, and they are now calling on city officials to consider solutions to protect the church and make nearby streets safer for students and churchgoers.

For decades, St. Gertrude’s has been known as a place of comfort and prayer. However, now, many feel it has become a target.

Members said they’ve endured repeated incidents of vandalism, arson, shattered windows, church doors burned, a Virgin Mary mural burned, and even a cross outside the church was set on fire.

Armando Valerio, a volunteer and parishioner with th

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