Published Thursday, 03 March 2011
Red paint was used to scrawl the words "Lenon (sic) RIP" on St Matthew's in the Short Strand overnight and a hangman was also drawn on the wall.
Spotlights around the recently renovated building were also smashed in the attack by vandals.
Local Sinn Féin councillor Niall Ó Donnghaile, who attended the scene with PUP leader Brian Ervine, said he was disgusted by the graffiti and that those responsible need to "wise up".
"This attack in wholly unjustifiable and has caused considerable damage. As many parishioners came to mass this morning they were understandably very upset at the damage caused," he said.
"I, along with other community representatives within the Short Strand, did not back away from our responsibilities when the local memorial on the Newtownards Road was attacked and vandalised.
"I was glad to welcome Brian Ervine to St Matthew's so he could see the damage for himself - I commend him for that stand he has taken today and I believe that we can collectively send a message on behalf of our communities that we want this to stop and stop now."
East Belfast Ulster Unionist MLA Sir Reg Empey said: "Regardless of the events which took place at the Celtic v Rangers match last night, this type of behaviour is completely unacceptable.
"It is unfortunate that sport is once again the victim of those who would use any vehicle to support a sectarian agenda."
Alliance councillor Máire Hendron urged those responsible to "go and do something positive" instead of spreading hatred, adding: "Almost every time Rangers and Celtic play, there seems to be issues. This nonsense has to stop now - we're all sick of it across east Belfast."
Threats
Lurgan man Lennon, a former Northern Ireland international, has been subjected to numerous threats in the past - including bullets sent to him in the post.
Wednesday night's Scottish Cup fifth-round replay between Celtic and Rangers at Parkheaddescended into chaos with three Rangers players sent off - one during the match, one in extra time and one after the final whistle.
Lennon and his future Rangers counterpart, current assistant manager Ally McCoist, had to be hauled apart as the mayhem continued - although Lennon has since said the pair sat down afterwards to resolve the issue.
"There was an incident on the touchline at the final whistle between myself and Ally McCoist, and obviously it's one that has attracted a lot of attention," he said.
"We've both got a lot of experience of this fixture and know that sometimes, in the heat of the moment, things can be said and words exchanged.
"However, we were still able to sit down after the game and, as far as we are concerned, the matter is closed."
Police made 34 arrests in the wake of the game, prompting the Scottish Police Federation to call for an end to Old Firm "madness".