Theresa's Table

Happy Knee Year!

2012-02-02T18:59:00.000-08:00

By Theresa D. McClellan

Faith Advocacy Coordinator

Gays In Faith Together

“It is not I, but the Christ within who does the work.”

These amazing words salved my tears 3 a.m. Sunday morning as I lay crying in my Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital room.

In pain and overwhelmed, I’d paged the nurse desk late Saturday night and asked if she’d go online, find and print the day’s Daily Word message from Unity Magazine.

The Daily Word is one of my favorite sources of spiritual sustenance. Each day a random topic is expressed in an essay inspired by a Scripture verse. I’ve received the magazine in my home for years. And even when I misplace it, it re-appears just when it’s needed with a message so profound, on point and seemingly just for me.

But since my Dec. 30, 2011 total knee replacement surgery, I have been without it. I forgot to renew my subscription.

But God is good and always on time and delivers to us exactly what we need. Often more.

This is the story of how a random message made it clear that God is constantly finding ways to show us we are not in this alone. All we have to do is listen, be open, and look for God’s work to unfold, often at the hands of surprising messengers.

This is also a message of how our “Gay Christian? Yes! Campaign is going to unfold in the spring of 2012 despite the human frailties of its organizers.

But I’m getting ahead of myself. This started in the fall of 2011 when I finally decided to seek help for my painful knees. Seeking just another pain relieving shot, I was informed my pain was caused by agonizing bone on bone knee deterioration. I needed two new knees. My reaction was instant.

“I can’t have surgery now, I’m in the midst of a major campaign starting in 2012!”

My accompanying friend and the nurse viewing my x-rays were aghast at my statement. They convinced me if I didn’t address this now, my future scenarios would be bleak.

So I agreed to a Dec. 7 surgery. Bouts of bronchitis caused surgical delays for me, but once fully healthy I finally snagged the Dec. 30 date.

I made preparations at work and home getting ready for this life-altering surgery, but it soon became clear how un-ready I was for everything coming my way.

As we start this New Year and our “Gay Christian? Yes! Campaign , I know all about being overwhelmed and about the power of God.

I’ve spent the last year with a talented team of Christians leading the way in praying, planning and collaborating to make this “Gay Christian? Yes! Campaign a success. With your continued involvement, some amazing events will begin to unfold this spring.

Preparing for and having that surgery led to the discovery of other health issues. After four days in Saint Mary’s Hospital, and ten at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, learning how to walk again in an amazingly supportive environment whose motto is “restoring hope and freedom,” I saw and felt God’s hand in my life.

It was never more apparent the Sunday morning of January 8 when God’s blessings unceasingly continued to bubble forth.

My asthma was out of control, my blood pressure numbers were consistently rising to stroke levels and the pain in my new surgical knee was unbearable. To keep all this at bay, a team of doctors had three computerized pages of drugs they were giving me daily and I would have to do the same once home.

I was scared and overwhelmed and paged the nurse asking her for more pain meds, a print out of my drugs list and a computer print out of the Daily Word. Saturday turned to Sunday morning and she brought me the message. I was not the only one feeling overwhelmed, she leaned against the wall and read it silently. I asked her to read it to me aloud.

The anonymous scribe was writing about feeling overwhelmed and used the New Testament Scriptures from Colossians 3:11 for inspiration.

This was the opening line of the essay. “It is not I, but the Christ within who does the work”

My nurse looked at me as I lay in bed crying while she read to me softly. She cried and held my hand. “May I give you a hug,” she asked?

“Yes, please?” I responded.

I requested the Daily Word message and a printout of my drugs on Saturday, but she was finally able to complete the task around 3 am Sunday morning leaving me a message that was right on time.

I used that message throughout the rest of the day to buoy me when my physical therapists sent me back to my hospital room because my blood pressure was out of control; later still in the day when a friend, who was going to bring my mother to visit me ,called to say sickness changed his plans and could I find someone else to bring my mother.

I saw God’s handiwork when out of the blue an old reporter friend ,hearing I was in the hospital, called to check on me and offered to bring my mother to see me upon hearing my dilemma.

I saw God’s handiwork again when my 85-year-old mother finally arrived, but after a short visit, became ill herself in my rehab hospital room with flu-like symptoms. Another friend arrived to take her to the nearby hospital emergency room, while I lay helpless in my hospital bed.

And once my mother was released from emergency, hours later to spend the night with one of my friends, I saw God’s handiwork as I sat on my bed and wept, releasing tears of pain and fear and relief.

And I heard the prayerful words of my roommate, an elderly stroke victim who thought she had lost her words.

“Lord, I don’t know what I’m saying or how to say it,” she prayed, “but be with my friend her and her mother. Let her know you are in control”.

I grew calm and an incredible sense of peace filled me. I felt it again that night when my sister Vanessa called me from Houston and prayed the Our Father to me with me repeating after her. As I heard myself pray, I was reminded of how my stroke-addled father would end each night repeating the Our Father as my sister Connie prayed it to him. My father Frank and my sister Connie are in heaven now and surrounding me with love.

As Vanessa prayed to me that Sunday night and I thought of all the God moments in just one Sunday, I knew at that moment that nothing, no thing could separate me from God and no thing could separate us from doing God’s will of spreading the “Gay Christian? Yes! message.

Just before midnight, the nurses came in to check my blood pressure. All had heard about my day and expected the numbers to be horrific. But I was floating in God juice and the numbers could not touch me.

On the first reading I was 180, then 190. I told the nurse I felt fine and asked her to read me my Daily Word printout while I focused on deep breathing. Their brows grew increasingly furrowed as my top numbers climbed past 200 and my bottom number reached 101.

“I don’t care what that computer says,” I told her while smiling at the computerized blood pressure monitor. “God’s got this” I said waving my hand from the soles of my feet to the top of my head.

“Well I care,” the nurse stated while consulting with a second nurse. I lay back and breathed and the nurses watched in amazement as the numbers decreased to 143 over 87.

I was physically, emotionally and spiritually exhausted, but I knew at that point that even though my flesh was weak and I was not where I wanted to be in the campaign, even though I had not yet met personally with every pastor that expressed interest and even though illness had not allowed me to raise all the monies for the billboard campaign, I realized God was telling me that I did not and would not go this alone.

And finally, you know how I knew I was on the right track with the Gay Christian? Yes message, I want back to Colossians where the message is “Christ is in all”

Sounds like Yes! to me.

Now it is February and after a month of intense physical therarpy and after ingesting medically necessary serious pain pills, I am home looking forward to outpatient therapy. My brain fog has cleared and I am moving toward returning to the campaign. This is my first column. I hope it sounds like yes to you.

Special GRITS gathering Wednesday Nov. 30 You're invited!

2011-11-26T22:39:00.000-08:00

"Ahh the holidays. Time for family, friends, the food. Sometimes Thanksgiving can be stressful. Were you and your relationship served up as the main course? Relax. Breath. Come to the next GRITS meeting 7 p.m. Nov. 30 where we'll all unwind, share holiday stories, laugh, pray, eat, support one another AND bring your dreams as we make plans for the 2012 future GRITS sessions and create a team to make it happen.

Things we're considering:
-Growing GRITS to twice a month meetings with speakers from area churches.

- GRITS outings: dinner anyone

-GRITS church visits: hey we are gay Christians, some of us don't have a church and are kinda shy about finding one. Go as a group.

-GRITS study sessions: what keeps you strong in the storm, how have others before you?
We'll be reading,learning and discussing the works of strong gay Christians including Rev. Melanie Morrison, Rev Candace
Chellew Hodge and your choices . . .

-GRITS action:
The idea of GRITS (God Rocks In The Stream) is creating and nurturing vocal, visible, strong LGBT Christians and allies. Standing strong in heavy currents. Being the one that stays and changing the course of the difficult conversations. Are there community projects we want to tackle/support as gay Christians in 2012?

Who we are:
We are in our 20s to 80s. We are churched and unchurched. We are struggling and solid. We are part of GIFTs "Gay Christian? Yes!" Campaign.

We provide unconditional love and support to one another through prayer, study, fellowship, fun, connections and collaborations. We are preparing ourselves for the reactions that will come in April 2012 as the "Gay Christian? Yes!" billboards are unveiled and we are letting the world know that yes, you can be gay and Christian. Yes, you can be an ally. Yes, you can be person of faith and LGBT.

Join us, see how much better we can be together!

GRITS meetings are held in The Vine, enter the rear southwest door of the First Place Bldg, 207 E Fulton Street, beneath the GIFT offices.
For more information call Theresa at 774-0446.

Why we hold the Transgender Day of Remembrance and Hope

2011-11-18T23:54:00.000-08:00

By Theresa D. McClellan
Faith Advocacy Coordinator
Gays In Faith Together

Less than 200 miles from Grand Rapids, a mother is grieving the loss of her 19-year-old child who was born male and self identified as a beautiful woman named "Treasure."

She was mutilated, burned and left on the ground like a piece of trash.

The publicized reactions by some, who read of this horrendous murder in Detroit last month focused on whether the victim, was male or female. Really?

The mother had to identify the torso of her loved one. The details are horrific. But because the one who was violated, is a member of the transgender community, one of the marginalized ones, there has been little outrage.

This is why we hold the Transgender Day of Remembrance. For all the non-conforming treasures out there who are cast aside. For all the mothers who are not allowed to fully grieve, their loss clouded by inane, insensitive, inappropriate questions, speculations and comments. For all those whose lives have been lost around the world to violence because they did not conform to the sexual roles expected of them.

We hold the Day of Remembrance for those who have been slain. We hold this day of Remembrance and Hope for those non-conforming transgendered friends who have come through the journey and found solid footing.

We also hold the Day of Remembrance for the allies who are willing to stand up and say "Enough" to those who see bullying, violence and murder as sport.

By the end of the Transgender Day of Remembrance and Hope service on Sunday November 20, 2011, participants will have celebrated all the ways that we are while recognizing the toll of violence being who you are has on the Gender variant community.

It is on that tightrope of remembrance and hope that allies and gender variant people will reveal how we can make a difference and change the course of bias, said organizers.

These messages of remembrance and hope will be interwoven into a service featuring a thought-provoking message from nationally known activist and educator the Rev. Dr. Julie Nemecek, soul-stirring music and presentations from the gender variant community.

The service will be held 6:00 p.m. Sunday November 20th at Plymouth United Church of Christ, 4010 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Grand Rapids, MI. The service is being planned by the Transgender Education Collaboration, Transpectrum, Plymouth United Church of Christ and GIFT (Gays In Faith Together).

"So often transgender and gender variant people go through their lives unnoticed by others. But there are exceptions where bias prejudices and even violence makes life impossible and all too often cut short for people that do not follow the societies’ ideas of gender,” said transgender educator and activist Jena Lewis.

“We hope that by both taking the time to remember, but more importantly to celebrate gender variant people, we can help open eyes in the community, and maybe even open doors for gender variant people." said Lewis.

Through the sharing of stories, reading of names and visual presentations, the service will create a space where all are free to be. There is hope that the service will serve as a springboard of action for others wanting to make Michigan and the rest of the world a safer and more informed place for the transgender and gender variant communities. Following the service, organizations such as the Transgender Education Collaboration (TEC) will have information and make connections during a reception for all present, said event co-organizer M Kelley.

A planning team, led by Lewis, Kelley and VanDoren have been working to create a space where there is space for hope and remembrance. The service will have secular and spiritual overtones as recognition that some in the transgender community have been shunned by religious traditions and would not feel comfortable in a church setting.

My faith tells me God rejects no one. So when anyone is rejected by the church, or church followers it is our role to make sure that everyone knows the outstretched arms of God embrace all, even if you've been told God does not live in or believe in you.

Please join us:

What is the future for Gay Christians in West Michigan?

2011-11-16T02:18:00.000-08:00

By Theresa D. McClellan
Faith Advocacy Coordinator
Gays In Faith Together

On Thursday night, crowds will pour into the Loosemoore Auditorium on the downtown campus at GVSU to watch the free premier screening of the People's History of the LGBTQ community in Grand Rapids.

From the trailers and descriptions posted on the Grand Rapids Institute for Information Democracy, (GRIID)website, we will hear interviews, see archived Grand Rapids Press news clippings, and television news broadcasts about the struggle for justice and equality by the LGBTQ population in Grand Rapids.

We will see familiar faces from Grand Rapids' past and hear stories that make us cringe in pain over the blatant discrimination, dismissal and demonization of who we are. We will rise up in our seats in recognition of those who paved the way before us. And if we are really listening and not just socializing, we will ask ourselves what is my role, what can I do?

The faith community is an important piece and continues to be an important piece of that struggle. We will see how people of faith wielded their religion to restrict, and we will also see how people of faith stepped up and reclaimed a vision of a God of love and hope.

As we watch our history, as revealed on this screen, consider where you fit in and consider how you represented your faith? Also consider, how do you want to be seen in the future? And before and after the movie, stop by our Gays In Faith Together (GIFT) table and see where you can fit in in making West Michigan a beacon of hope for all with our "Gay Christian? Yes!" Campaign that will launch publicly in 2012.

Our mission is to "proclaim the love of Christ for lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender (LGBT) people and their allies and to affirm their presence and inclusion in the Christian community."

For some, that mission is pretty radical. As followers of Christ, we see it no other way. Which is why we are launching a bold, exciting, blessed and Spirit-filled Campaign that will launch publicly during the 50 days of the Easter season 2012 and continue at least through 2013.

We are forming a collaboration of churches, other organizations and individuals to lay the groundwork for this exciting campaign. There is a lot of movement in Grand Rapids and West Michigan on LGBT concerns that will affect the history and future of who we are and how we are in this community and beyond.

So make sure you also visit the tables of others such as Holland is Ready and TEAM as well as the gay-friendly churches present. And after the movie, some of you will consider joining the fundraiser at the neighborhood pub The Meanwhile Bar where the Until Love is Equal group has gathered.

Let us create a groundswell of hope and support and action.

In creating this work, GRIID creator Jeff Smith explained it this way.

"There is an underside to every age about which history does not often speak,

because history is written from records left by the privileged.

We learn about politics from the political leaders, about economics from the entrepreneurs,
...
about slavery from the plantation owners, about the thinking of an age from its intellectual elite."

Howard Zinn

Following the model of radical historian Howard Zinn, this project involves the documentation of the history of the LGBTQ movement in West Michigan.

By doing interviews and collecting archival material, this project has produced a documentary film and an online archive of material about the struggle for equality and justice by the LGBTQ community in West Michigan. The screenings of “A People's History of the LGBTQ Community in Grand Rapids” will allow for continuing dialogue about the LGBTQ movement and provide a forum for current and future organizing.

This is a project of the Grand Rapids Institute for Information Democracy. The LGBT Resource Center is proud to be a co-sponsor along with GVSU’s Kutsche Office of Local History.

Come join us Thursday 6:30 p.m. Nov. 17 at the Loosemoore Auditorum in downtown Grand Rapids on the GVSU campus.

We will be there. I hope you will also. Because our vision for West Michigan is "that every LGBT person may walk freely in the love of Christ."

That has not been our history. May it be our future.

Bless tonight's 7 p.m. National Coming Out Day Service

2011-10-11T09:48:00.000-07:00

By Theresa D. McClellan
Faith Advocacy Coordinator
"Gay Christian? Yes!" Campaign

There is an excitement in the air as we ready for tonight's National Coming Out Day service at St. John's United Church of Christ, 1934 Bridge St. NW.

The hard work of the programming committee of the "Gay Christian? Yes!" Campaign is evident. The songs, the message, the creation of a sense of togetherness, purpose, family, solidarity and love is not by chance.

On this day we ask everyone to COME OUT! Show who you are. Embrace all that God has made you, be that lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender, ally.

One friend wrote on his Facebook page that he is coming out as a heterosexual who strongly supports the LGBT community.
I like that. That takes guts.

Others are considering coming out as Christian members of the LGBT community. This is another action that takes guts for there are those who say you cannot be a person of faith and LGBT. Some of those voices come from within the LGBT community, from people who have been so bullied from the pulpit they say why embrace your oppressor?

Others are pondering is it safe? Can I tell my sister, my mother, my father, my pastor, my Christian college counselor. I'm tired of walking on eggshells and telling so many lies to fit in. I, too, want to celebrate the love of someone who looks like me.

My heart goes out to those on that journey. Those first steps are excruciating. But the joy, the freedom, the reality that God makes no mistakes and the reality that there are places of worship that will embrace you, walk with you and who will ask you to walk with them as they learn their way. That is truly a blessing.

That is one of the joys of this "Gay Christian? Yes!" Campaign as more churches and individuals come on board to see how they can help,learn and walk with their congregation.

Come to tonight's service and you will hear stories from those coming out, you will hear music from the West Michigan Gay Men's Chorus that will make your heart soar. You will hear a gospel song that comes from my story. "I Want You to Know My God" a song I wrote more than a decade ago in response to a well-meaning pastor who informed me that my love of another woman was "not of God."

But my relationship with God told me a different story and as I came out to my pastor and shared my story, my faith and continued mutual dialogs, I saw the power of God as my pastor eventually held up the Bible and told the congregation, "this is a book of love, do not use it to beat up people."

We all have stories. Feel the poignancy, the power and the blessing of National Coming Out Day as celebrated in a church setting and stay afterwards for fellowship and learn more about our host church St. John's UCC led by the Rev. Bill Lyons, learn about out other gay-friendly churches and learn about the "Gay Christian? Yes!" Campaign.

The song I will sing with the Plymouth Chorus is also the kickoff of a song contest, a search for songs expressing the faith journey of LGBT Christians in all the ways that we are: Blues, Christian, Folk,Gospel,Indie, Jazz, Rock. The songwriter's contest will culminate in a concert in 2012.

Come Out and be blessed.

Is Gay a Gift?

2011-09-28T15:17:00.000-07:00

By Theresa D. McClellan

So a recent response to a billboard outreach to the gay community by a Toledo church has prompted another church leader to erect nine billboards stating, "Gay Is Not a Gift"

The message is that "no one would choose this."

Often I hear lesbian,gay,bi-sexual,transgender (LGBT) and heterosexual people say; why would anyone choose to be hated and demeaned?

When actually the question should be, why would anyone choose to demean, diminish and dishonor any of God's creation; especially in the name of God?

For me, gay is definitely a gift. It is one of the many gifts God has blessed me with and that I have CHOSEN to embrace. It wasn't always so. Societal pressures, media messages, even messages from some pulpits, leave no doubt that fully embracing all that God has made you to be is not ok if you do not conform to expectations of masculine and feminine.

The fallout from this pastor's message will have some - who already wonder and question why they are gay, lesbian, bi-sexual or transgender, feeling unsure and unsafe.

But that is why there are allies, LGBTQ organizations and a continuously growing number of safe places of worship where people can explore how to be all that God has meant them to be.

As the Faith Advocacy Coordinator for the "Gay Christian? Yes!" Campaign under GIFT (GaysInFaithTogether.org) it humbles and pleases me to see the collaborative efforts here in Grand Rapids for the upcoming Oct. 11 National Coming-Out Day Service at St. John's United Church of Christ, 1934 Bridge St. NW.

With Scriptures that salve and a meaningful message from the Rev. Dr. Randal Jelks, this 7 p.m. Tuesday night service will hopefully heal wounds and open doors.

With powerful music from the West Michigan Gay Men's Chorus, poignant messages from those who have made the journey out of the closet and an original gospel song celebrating and affirming all of God's children, this worship service will prayerfully help answer the question, "Is Gay a Gift?

The answer is a resounding Yes! Gay is a gift. So is being heterosexual or however God made you. There are no mistakes.

After the Tuesday night service, visitors will be able to come downstairs for a dessert reception where we will fellowship with one another. There are more than two dozen churches on GIFT's ever-growing list of gay-friendly churches.

We are getting responses daily of their intent to be represented at the service with tables of information, sermons, adult-education programs, support.

My prayer is that those here in Grand Rapids who have been shamed and demeaned because of who they are, will realize they are not alone.

My prayer for Toledo, and the rest of the world, is that those who have been hurt because of how they are made will not drive by and see harsh words condemning them. They will look up in their community, whereever they are, and see hope.

Three men on a Wednesday

2011-08-02T01:21:00.000-07:00

By Theresa D. McClellan
Faith Advocacy Coordinator
Gays In Fath Together

Wednesday night is rolling around again, but this time the story is different.
For on this Wednesday night, an 18-year-old man by the name of Max Singer is taking positive action against something that bothered him.

Armed with food, youthful energy and the unifying belief in accepting all people, Singer is organizing a youth march on Holland City Hall for Aug. 3

Max wants to raise his voice in protest, and give courage to other youths finding their voice, by demonstrating against the city council’s decision not to include sexual orientation and gender identity in the city’s non-discrimination ordinances.

On Wednesday, Max will ask the Holland City Council to reconsider its June 15 split vote.

He felt compelled to action after sitting through his first Holland City Council meeting July 20. He listened to the majority of supportive voices come from outside Holland. He realized how he felt on the issue and believed there were others in his age group who had remained quiet or unaware.

So he is organizing, through Facebook, a 5 p.m. march on Holland City Hall from Smallenburg Park. The culinary arts student decided he would provide food and cook for people, according to his proud mother who appeared Friday night in Grand Rapids at the Wealthy Theatre in Grand Rapids.

She was present for the showing of the Queeries movie, “Through Our Eyes,” the powerful documentary of earnest young gay Christians struggling with the messages of shame and condemnation they hear from their Sunday pulpits or in their homes.

One by one, the youths in the movie told painful stories of their inner struggle of trying to be themselves, while hearing soul-crushing messages from their faith leaders that who they were was unacceptable to God.

One youth told of being kicked out of his home by his father for being gay, while his crying mother said nothing in dutiful silence.

Another told of trying to pray away the gay and finally realizing after three years “the gay” would not go away.

Others told of knowing in their hearts, in their Spirit, that they were all right with God and of hanging on to that belief one day at a time.

I was glad to be watching this movie with other gay Christians from Plymouth United Church of Christ and St. John’s United Church of Christ. These are just two of at least 23 churches on our ever growing gay-friendly list of supportive churches.

I was glad to be with allies like Holland PFLAG, West Michigan Pride, Grand Valley State University GLBT Resource Center and of course GIFT (Gays In Faith Together) where we proclaim the news with resounding boldness that God makes no mistakes and Yes, you can be a person of faith and LGBT.

And I was glad we had set up information booths in the lobby telling of area gay-friendly churches and programs to affirm the LGBT community.

But before we watched the movie and saw the struggles of those in the documentary, we were reminded of the very real struggles of our neighbors in Holland.

Max’s mother spoke at the request of local journalist/facilitator Tommy Allen who wanted everyone to know what was happening in Holland. She told of her son, who like most his age, was oblivious to the City Hall actions. Since the vote, she has had signs in her front yard declaring her space a discrimination free zone. Sometimes the signs are stolen and she just makes more. On July 20 she brought her son to a council meeting and it was life-changing.

For a young man who had been raised in a family “committed to diversity” the young man with Hispanic and African-American siblings felt he had to “do something.“

He figured food would more readily bring people together, So he will feed them before the peaceful march. As his mother spoke at the theatre, others offered to bring food as well.

Contrast that with the actions of two men from the previous Wednesday.

They, too, saw something that “bothered them.”

Walking back to his car following a Michigan Equality reception for the new executive director, Denise Brogan Kator, Dave Battjes was attacked in downtown Grand Rapids.

He was wearing his pink Michigan Pride t-shirt and two young thugs in their 20s threw him up against a wall, punched him in the ribs, called him a gay slur and told him gays don’t deserve to live.

One young man encounters struggle around difference and wants to widen the circle. Two other young men encounter difference and want to destroy.

What messages have they been hearing that makes them think it’s ok to attack what is different? Who else is listening to those messages?

What are we doing to counter those vitriolic messages of dismissal and dishonor with messages of love, acceptance, affirmation and grace?

What are we doing so that no other child or adult, on a documentary movie screen or in our own backyard has to hear false and painful words about who they are and their place in the world?

Spirit: Can't Crush This

2011-06-24T03:13:00.000-07:00

As I walked through Riverside Park Saturday during the annual West Michigan Pride celebration, an old-school song, “Can’t Touch This,” from the prophet MC Hammer reached my ears and made me smile.

Of course, the way I think, I instantly gave it a new-school flavor and changed it to “Spirit: Can’t Crush This.”

For as far as the eye could see there were people filled with joy in the sunshine. Their Spirit was not shaken despite two separate heartbreaking decisions that week by the Holland City Council and the Christian Reformed Church Synod to maintain the status quo on harmful messages regarding the treatment of homosexuals.

On Monday the Synod decided 93-81 not to re-examine its theological position on homosexuality that has been unchanged since 1973. For those brave and determined allies and gay Christian Reformed Church Christians who supported the change, the decision to maintain the premise that homosexuality is sinful despite new studies, is heartbreaking.

And later that week the Holland City Council voted 5-4 to allow discrimination against homosexuals. Again, the rhetoric, the venom, the conversations that made it ok to accept that anyone should be treated less than, was heartbreaking.

But on Saturday, despite those voices in our communities that can wreak havoc on the souls and spirit of the lesbian, gay, bi and transgender community, there was pride and joy and light in the air at Riverside Park.

People were hugging one another, renewing old acquaintances, admiring new looks, flirting with one another, helping one another and basking in the freedom one has when one feels safe to hold hands in the park.

As the Gay Men’s Chorus stood on stage and the Rev. Matthew Cockrum of Fountain Street Church took the lead on a song about love, I watched young and old gay couples sitting in the grass sharing hot dog lunches, cuddled in one another’s arms and swaying to the music. Clusters of gay friends and family enjoyed the day just laughing, listening, being.

I watched drag queens dressed to the nines - in heels too fierce for me - command the stage with their presence; and sister-friends “Nervous but Excited” - with guitars and strong voices - pic their way into hearts of new fans.

Returning to my booth, Gays In Faith Together (GIFT), I watched with pride the confidence of young volunteers telling their stories of hope to strangers questioning if there was hope.

I swelled with pride and gave silent praise to Spirit when at one point our entire booth was engaged with visitors: a middle aged leatherman; a young lesbian couple with a baby; two gay teens; a mother with a gay son; a shy young black man, all with a hunger to know our message that yes, you can be Gay and Christian. Yes, you can nurture your spiritual life and embrace your sexuality. Yes, you can be all that God has meant you to be AND celebrate all the gifts that God has given you.

No, you are not an abomination. You are not evil. You are not unloved. You are not a mistake. You are not to take in those negative messages that crush your spirit.

My heart went out to a young man who told me he hasn’t been to church in eight years since a minister told him he was not welcome. He missed church, he said. He wanted a church home. I hugged him and showed him our growing list of more than two dozen gay-friendly churches and faith-based groups on our website and directed him to the record-number of churches and faith groups present in the park to say yes to him: Bridge Evidence Group; Center for Inquiry; First Park Congregational Church; Fountain Street Church; Plymouth United Church of Christ; Reconciliation Metropolitan Community Church; St. John’s United Church of Christ; and Westminster Presbyterian.

I saw love, and joy and connection and I thought of how the week started in Holland where discrimination found its footing with a 5-4 vote to deny efforts to even pursue the conversation.

I thought of the countless hours, efforts and prayers by Holland is Ready and other supporters to make a difference and I felt a sense of pride in their strength, grit, grace and Spirit that it takes to wage an uphill battle.

I relished in the eagerness of young allies and family members bringing their gay friends to our booth and the stamina of two senior volunteers who nonchalantly walked a half-mile to reach our booth just to be sure they could be there to provide yet another friendly face and listening ear in support of the lgbt community.

By the time we we ran out of fliers of our church listings and the sermon from our Chaplain Jim Lucas stating “God Does Not Condemn Us” the day had nearly ended.

But I left Pride with an extra buoyancy in my already joyful step because I knew that we had played an important part. This is why Pride is so valuable.

Spirit - Can’t Crush This.

GIFT announces LOGO contest for "Gay Christian? Yes!" collaborative campaign

2011-06-18T04:56:00.000-07:00

Are you creative?

Artistic?

Want to make a difference?

At West Michigan Pride today, GIFT announced the start of the GIFT LOGO contest for our "Gay Christian? Yes!" collaborative campaign.

GIFT LOGO CONTEST DETAILS

OVERVIEW

The purpose of the GIFT Logo Contest is to design a logo for GIFT’s “Gay Christian? Yes!” collaborative campaign.
We want an original, unique (no clip art) and dynamic image that represents the joy, hope, and energy of what it means to say Yes! to being gay and Christian. By participating in the contest, the artist accepts and agrees to comply with the official rules.
- All entries, images and artwork become exclusive property of GIFT (Gays In Faith Together).

The logo will be used online, in print, and on merchandise. The final version of the logo will need to be suitable for high quality printing.

How to Enter:
1. All entries must fill out the “Logo Entry” form found on the website. This form requires that you list the name, address, phone number, age and email address of the entrant.

2. Entries may be submitted by email to Theresa@GaysInFaithTogether.org with the subject line “logo contest” no later than 7:31 p.m. on 7/31/2011.

3. No more than 3 (three) entries may be submitted by any one entrant

4. Entries must conform to the Submission Guidelines set out below. Entries which fail to do so will be rejected.

5. Deadline for Entries is 7:31 p.m. July, 31, 2011.

6. There is no fee to enter the contest.

Required elements:
- The design must contain the words “Gay Christian? Yes!”
-We want an original, unique (no clip art) and dynamic image that represents the joy, hope, and energy of what it means to say Yes! to being gay and Christian.

Submission Guidelines:
The purpose of the Gays In Faith Together Logo Contest is to design a logo for the “Gay Christian? Yes!” campaign collaborative. The winning design will appear, in some form, on all promotional materials for the collaborative. This includes posters, mugs, programs and t-shirts.

-Entries must be original.

-Care should be taken to ensure that Entries are not in any way similar to
existing logos or other copyrighted images.

-After you create the logo, convert the design into a usable web version and print quality version of the logo. The logo must adapt well to electronic and print media, to reproduction on small and large surfaces, and to use in color and grayscale.

Eligibility:
Contest is open to everyone. If you are between the ages of 13 and 17, your parent or legal guardian must sign the consent block on the official entry form to ensure that you have your parent or legal guardian’s permission.

FORMATTING:
For purposes of submission, please submit the design in .png, .jpg or .psd for (Resolution of 300 dpi) AND as a .pdf file (less than 10MB). If the logo incorporates non-standards fonts, you must be able to provide us with the font should your logo be selected. If you are chosen as a winner, you MUST be able to provide a high-resolution vector file.

Prizes:

1. One crisp $100 bill
2. Artistic credit for your winning design on www.GaysInFaithTogether.org and an article on you in the Theresa’s Table blog.
3. The opportunity to be featured in an online interview.

Selection of winners:
All entry designs will be screened and those that comply with the contest rules and guidelines will be judged by our staff and volunteers of GIFT and be made available for a public vote.
The winner will be notified by phone, email or regular mail at the end of the contest.
In the event that no entry is selected, GIFT reserves the right to declare no winner and to run the contest again at a later date.

Please contact the GIFT office 616-774-0446 or send questions to Theresa@GaysInFaithTogether.org

Kenyan minister dedicated to advocating for gay Christians in Africa comes to West Michigan to visit with GIFT at noon on June 3

2011-05-29T00:08:00.000-07:00

By Theresa D. McClellan

When you live in a country where sexual minorities are shunned by church and society, how does your faith give you the strength to support and advocate for them and how do you give comfort to gays who feel the church is compelled to persecute them?

Listen, learn and be inspired by the message from visiting Kenyan pastor, the Rev. John Makokha, who will share his journey of faith and advocacy with GIFT staff and supporters in downtown Grand Rapids at noon Friday June 3 in Room 3109 at the First Place Building, 207 East Fulton St.

The Rev. John Makokha, a pastor in Nairobi, Kenya, is also the country director of "Other Sheep Africa" an organization dedicated to advocacy on behalf of gay and lesbian Christians. He and his wife, Anne, offer educational workshops for pastors, seminary faculty and lay church members on human sexuality and gender identity.

Their ministry is based on the Scriptures from John 10-16 "And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd."

Rev. John is a senior pastor of the Riruta United Methodist Church and founded the "Children of Africa Hope Mission" where he and his wife provide elementary education, clothing and meals to orphans and other vulnerable children living in the slums of Nairobi.

Local philosophy professor and Fulbright scholar David Hoekema met Rev. Makokha last year while studying abroad in Nairobi. "We were deeply moved by their dedication to the slum residents of Nairobi they serve, to the plight of gay Kenyans shunned by church and society and to their dedication to the Lord," said Hoekema.

"We are eager to introduce John to others concerned for the future of the church in Africa," said Hoekema who has organized several opportunities for others to meet with Rev. Makokha during his week-long visit to West Michigan.

For anyone working to ensure that the message of God's unyielding love emcompasses everyone, and for those wanting to support an important ministry, this is a must-see session. So join us.

Rev. Makokha will also appear 6/4 at the Amazwi Gallery of African Art in Saugatuck. 6/5 at the 9:40 a.m. Sunday Westminster Presbyterian Church adult education forum, and 6/6 at a luncheon with Calvin College faculty and staff.

For more information, contact Professor Hoekema at 616-826-7046 or dhoekema@calvin.edu. To learn more about Rev. Makokha's ministry, also see www.othersheep.org/Members_Makokha.html

--
Theresa D. McClellan
Faith Advocacy Coordinator
Gays In Faith Together (GIFT)
616-774-0446
www.GaysInFaithTogether.org

Join us in Lansing May 14 for statewide faith-based conference on LGBT inclusion

2011-05-04T16:14:00.000-07:00

By Theresa D. McClellan
Faith Advocacy Coordinator
Gays In Faith Together

Blessings,
This is an exciting time for the LGBT affirming faith community as we learn from one another May 14 in a statewide conference. I wrote this press release for the Together In Faith collaborative. The lineup for this conference will prove to be an exciting time. Whatever your faith background, you will be inspired and leave with new friends.
See registration info at the end of the release.

Faith does not mean exclusion. So what does it mean for the state of Michigan when all God's children are embraced and protected?

Join us May 14 when statewide faith leaders, committed to equality for all, gather to learn from and support one another in an interdenominational, multi-faith, multicultural conference in the state's capital.

The day-long "Together In Faith" conference "Lifting Up the Voice of All-Embracing Love" featuring workshops, resources, and worship, will highlight ways people of faith can be effective in working for equality for all within their faith communities and in the broader community.

Organized by the Together in Faith collaborative, this impressive, inclusive conference pulls from peoples of faith from the Upper Peninsula, Detroit and her suburbs, Western Michigan, Southwest Michigan and all points in between.

For too long, some have used their faith to beat down and hold back God's children and Michigan has become synonymous with tight-fisted oppression. We say that has to change as our faith compels us to create justice and to have an all-embracing, all-encompassing love of all that God has made.

Together In Faith is a continually growing statewide, interfaith collaborative of faith-based LGBTQ advocates and allies. The conference will be held May 14, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Pilgrim United Church of Christ Church in Lansing,Mi.

To register: www.inclusive-justice-together-in-faith.org

Sponsored by: Inclusive Justice, Divine Peace Metropolitan Community Church, Fortunate Families, Gay Christian? Yes! Collaborative, Gays in Faith Together, Michigan Fairness Forum, Michigan Round Table for Diversity and Inclusion, Interweave & Michigan Unitarian Universalist Social Justice Network, LGBT Ministries of Central United Methodist Church, Oasis TBLG Outreach Ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Michigan, OutCenter, Pilgrim United Church of Christ, PFLAG Detroit, PFLAG Manistee and the Southeast Michigan Synod Diversity Task Force of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America.

How to make soup

2011-04-18T01:30:00.000-07:00

By Theresa D. McClellan
GIFT Faith Advocacy Coordinator

The soup pots are empty. The wine glasses are clean. Happy bidders walked away with their prize winnings, including the huge framed drawing of Barbra Streisand, and the conversations and laughter has temporarily ended.

Our second annual Soup, Wine & Silent Auction at the Cascade Winery was a success in so many ways as connections were made and renewed. Saturday's event occurred because so many people said "YES!"

Yes, I will open my doors to you and your organization. Yes, I will take time from my busy schedule and create and ladle soup for you. Yes, I will take my merchandise, my livelihood, and offer it up to you for the benefit of your organization and the important work you do. Yes, I am busy, but I will find a way to spend a few hours on a cold and wet Saturday to support you by purchasing a ticket.

And those who said no or not at this time created an opening for more conversations. Everyone in our GIFT family worked hard to make this happen, culling our resources and calling in favors.

I remembered at the last minute that I had tapped multiple sources except my own Blackberry, a phone that just keeps alphabetizing all the contacts and numbers I've thrown in there and imported from previous phones. So I started making calls, renewing conversations from relationships past.

"Yes, I retired from the Press in 2009. I work with GIFT now as their Faith Advocacy Coordinator. GIFT is an acronym for Gays In Faith Together."

Silence. Then "Wow. Really? Wow. My church feels strongly about that gay issue, that it's wrong. ...But I can't judge." I was told this more than once. And because of relationships built over the years, the conversation didn't stop there.

One woman told me she, too, felt strongly about the "gay issue" and agreed with her church. We've had a professional relationship built on mutual respect. She did not know I was gay. She realized it is hard to embrace church traditions that shun when you see the person as whole.

As we talked, she also realized there may be some in her Christian Reformed Church who could benefit from a message of God's love for all God's children and from connections with other gay Christians who embrace all that God has made them to be. She vowed to pass on my email address (Theresa@GaysInFaithTogether.org) the GIFT website (www.GaysInFaithTogether.org) and the fundraising event to some in her church. We've also set up time to discuss my work further.

I spoke with a minister who let me know that "this will be a hard sell in the black church. Most black churches believe homosexuality is sin. It's a choice," he said.

It is a choice, I said. I choose to accept all that God has given me in order to be all that God wants me to be. We agree to have lunch and discuss this further.

At the fundraiser I spoke with an older black couple who came out to support me. Over soup and sips of wine we talked. "The church can be harsh on this issue. Sometimes I hate what I hear in my own church when they talk about gays. I think really, in 2011?" she said.

I remind her that there are likely members of the LGBTQ community in her congregation hearing those messages and suffering in silence in their pews thinking everyone agrees. Or perhaps the message is being uttered by a pastor thinking this is what the congregation wants to hear.

Another seed has been planted that will garner further conversation or entry into a church for further discussion. I am pleased. Because every time we hold a program or engage in conversation it gives us another entryway into spreading the message that there are no mistakes. God loves us all and Yes, you can be gay and Christian or a person of faith AND a member of the LGBTQ community.

These conversations can create allies and give courage to those who never thought they could be an ally. These gatherings give hope and safe spaces to members of the LGBTQ community and allies who love and support them. This fundraiser will help us continue our work making our way into churches and providing resources that give hope.

And just like a good soup or a fine wine we have brought together the ingredients that over time will make you say aaaaah. Blessings, and thank you all for your role in making this happen.

Where else can you say mmmmm, ahhhh, wow

2011-04-11T05:42:00.001-07:00

Carmelized onions. Roasted red peppers. Tender succulent sausages. Baby sweet potatoes. Those are just a few of the special ingredients swirling in my wonderfully rich and decadent soup that you'll get to savor this Saturday at GIFT's fundraising soup competition, wine-tasting and silent auction at the Cascade Winery, 4665 Broadmoor Ave. SE

And that's just one dish. We'll have vegan fare, spicy soups and savory lentils to name a few as well as the chance to taste six wines from our fantastic vinters of the Cascade Winery. You'll be able to vote with your dollars for the favorite soup.

This year we've added an additional attraction with the silent auction that features multiple goodies including a $500-value landscaping package and $400 value custom songwriting gift package.

So join us Saturday April 16 at the Cascade Winery from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 from the GIFT office by calling 774-0446 or $7 at the door on Saturday.

That's a great price to come out, have fun with old friends, meet new ones and support the work of GIFT. So be prepared to delight your senses and say mmmmm! ahhh! WOW as you have fun and support GIFT.

Exciting week of opportunities for affirming the LGBT community

2011-03-26T01:02:00.000-07:00

Blessings,

We are entering an exciting time and just wanted to remind you of the many opportunities starting Saturday to show your support and get support as a member of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bi-attractional and transgender community.

Starting 10 am today at The Spirit Space in Saugatuck, three speakers will lead the GLBT Spirituality Symposium during a "day of exploring, educating and encouraging our GLBT community."

For a $10 fee that includes lunch, there will be presentations by guest speakers, breakaway sessions and an open panel discussion from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Spirit Space, 3385 Blue Star Hwy in Saugatuck.
The day will include a viewing of the film, "Seven Passages" a docudrama created by Calvin College Professor Stephanie Sandberg based on more than 100 interviews with gay Christians in West Michigan. The daylong event also includes motivational speakers, inspirational writers, local residents and the parents of a transgender child.

Featured speakers include Mark Anthony Lord, Nancy Plantinga and Salvatore Sapienza.

Mark Lord is founder and director of the Bodhi Spiritual Center in Chicago. His latest book, "Nothin' Broken Here" is a guidebook for healing of gay shame. He offers a fresh perspective on sacred wisdom teachings. His training is in New Thought/Ancient Wisdom philosophies. He was first licensed at Unity School of Christian. As a student of Dr. Michael Bernard Beckwith, he received his Masters In Religion and Consciousness studies at Agape International Spiritual Center.

Nancy Plantinga is the founder of Natural Harmony Studios. Nancy is an acclaimed artist, massage therapist and musician whose mission is to assist others to "go within" and seek the inner healing of body, mind and spirit. She has exhibited her artwork in several juried shows and has received nationwide recognition for her portrait work. Nancy is also co-director of the Lakeshore Community Chorus.

Salvatore Sapienza is a former monk in the Catholic Church. Salvatore is the author of "Seventy Times Seven" which was nominated for two Lambda Literary awards including Best Spirituality. His latest book, "Gay is a Gift" shares the spiritual wisdom of gay shamans throughout history. He has written several cover stories for the "Gay & Lesbian Times" and has appeared locally on National Public Radio and PBS

Spirit Space www.spirit-space.org is located at 3385 Blue Star Hwy in Saugatuck.....

On Sunday during the 10 a.m. service I will join Pastor Bill Lyons of St. Johns United Church of Christ 1934 Bridge St. NW to share information on GIFT's "Gay Christian? Yes!" campaign as part of their lenten series featuring a community program.

On Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ, 4010 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, an exploratory meeting will be held to gauge interest and support for a Grand Rapids PFLAG group. PFLAG is an important cog in the wheel of support for LGBT families,allies and parents

And 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Wednesday the monthly GRITS meeting will be held at the Vine in the basement of the First Place Bldg, 207 E. Fulton.
GRITS, which stands for "God Rocks In The Stream, is comprised of gay Christians who choose to stand strong in their faith and their churches, even though their churches, the colleges, their workplace or even their families are not necessarily affirming. Such a decision requires strength of Spirit and purpose to change from within. We find support in one another's stories, presence and purpose.

A little background . . .

Sometimes when you are a pebble in the stream you can feel overwhelmed as the waters rush over you. No single pebble affects the stream very much. But we are rocks of varying colors, substance, weight and depth. We all matter, and we all can make a difference.

Join us as we gather to support one another, learn from one another, hear one another and embrace the gifts we each bring as God Rocks In The Stream. Hence the name GRITS.

GRITS is also a recognition of the inner strength, the true grit if you will, that it takes to be the lone voice in your church, your job, your school, your family.

There are several opportunities to connect with and affirm the LGBT community, find a way this week to say Yes!

Michigan Civil Rights Commissions wants to hear your bullying stories

2011-02-28T22:23:00.000-08:00

Have you been bullied? Is there a climate of fear around you? Does anyone hear your inner cry?
If you have been bullied, the Michigan Civil Rights Commission wants to hear your story. You are not alone and you will be heard.

Today, March 1, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Grand Rapids' Union High School,1800 Tremont Blvd. NW, testimony and stories will be taken and local supporters of anti-bullying efforts will make their voices heard. I will be there. So will representatives from schools, non-profit organizations and others in the community who want to ensure that your voice is heard.

A number of guest speakers will be present to speak about bullying, but the Commission really wants to hear from you, your personal stories.

The event will be at 1800 Tremont Blvd. NW at Union High School. Partners include: Kent Intermediate School District, Grand Valley State University, Grand
Rapids Community College, the City of Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Public Schools, the Hispanic
Center of Western Michigan and the Wyoming Community Youth Coalition.

The Michigan Civil Rights Commission is taking bullying seriously. "We have taken up this issue because of the long-term, negative psychological and social impacts of bullying and harassment. People must be treated equally and fairly, whether at work, online, at school or in society in general. Working with other civil and human rights organizations, we are trying to raise
public awareness about this issue,” stated Matthew Wesaw, Chair, Michigan Civil Rights Commission.

Bravo to the Michigan Civil Rights Commission. Blessings, and bravo to you who come forward to tell your story.

A Grand Rapids' PFLAG?

2011-02-16T15:29:00.000-08:00

By Theresa D. McClellan
Faith Advocacy Coordinator
Gays In Faith Together.

In this month of love and history, I have excitedly been preparing for future "Gay Christian? Yes!" collaboratives.

As we engage with more churches, encounter young and old ones who recognize themselves in the face of God, and hold up the ones who have been told God does not see them, I see the need for a Grand Rapids PFLAG.

I am not alone. Last night, I had the honor of meeting with a small group of people who are wondering if Grand Rapids could sustain an organization that works to support the parents and friends of the LGBT community.

There is already a lively and wonderful Holland/Lakeshore PFLAG chapter in Holland. I have attended their third Friday of the month meetings at Grace Episcopal Church, 555 Michigan Avenue, Holland where parents share with one another their joys and concerns, members of the LGBT community find solace among supportive parents, and the power of numbers dispel the mindset that one who loves someone that looks like them is abnormal.

An exploratory meeting will be held 7 p.m. Tuesday March 29 at Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ, 4010 Kalamazoo Ave. SE.

Plymouth, an open and affirming church, has been discussing the need and interest in PFLAG but didn't want to initiate a program since it should be parent-led. Around the same time, Nadirah Kharmai, a talented young video producer and GVSU graduate found the Holland chapter and was led to talks with Plymouth pastor the Rev. Doug VanDoren.

After much discussion other interested parties pulled together and met Tuesday night. After the meeting, Nadirah Kharmai issued this press release seeking more community input:

"Hi all:
A small team has gotten together to explore the avenue of creating a chapter of PFLAG here in Grand Rapids. Here are a few of questions the group has raised: Is there a need? Will parents and families come for support, and in turn, support others? Are there parents out there who will take on leadership positions?

We are looking for a group of enthusiastic leaders who have the time and passion to join us for a larger exploratory meeting where we will unpack the questions mentioned above.

There is an exceptional need for straight parents who have LGBTQ children to join us at our meeting. Everyone, regardless of sexual orientation, has a coming out story.

Join our next discussion, bring your thoughts and ideas, and celebrate advocacy with us on March 29 at 7 p.m. at Plymouth United Church of Christ, 4010 Kalamazoo Ave. SE."

Nadira
-----

I say excellent news Nadira. My hope is that a Grand Rapids PFLAG, heavily supported by parents, will occur and it will serve to be yet one more resource of hope, support and advocacy for the LGBTQ community.

I will be asking the 27 gay-friendly churches on our GIFT website to post this information and query their congregation.

I especially see this need as we engage more churches in becoming affirming and welcoming to the LGBTQ community. If you as a parent would like to know more ways to support our adult and adolescent gay offspring feel free to contact Theresa@GaysInFaithTogether.org

Blessings,

On King's Dream: The Power of love and conviction

2011-01-16T22:59:00.000-08:00

Editor's note:
Sunday I had the honor of celebrating the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's birthday with the Douglas Congregational United Church of Christ in Douglas Michigan. This spirit-led congregation, shepherded by the Rev. Andrew DeBraber, allowed me to provide their homily for the day. The service was beautiful as the words of Scripture and of the Rev. King were interwoven throughout. Below is my homily.

Blessings,
We gather here in celebration and recognition of the birth of a man of
vision and strength. A man who had the courage to hold onto his
convictions and speak his belief in a world that could be just and
true for all.

A man who had the strength of spirit, and I call it the Holy Spirit,
who had the strength of Spirit to rally against the growing injustices
around him.

We are all familiar with the “I Have a Dream” speech during the March
on Washington which gives voice to his vision of an end to the racial
segregation and economic injustice.

Some may not know that he tried out that speech in my hometown of
Detroit during the Great Freedom March. On June 23 in the summer of
1963, I was just one of thousands of little black girls heading to
Woodward Avenue with our families near downtown Detroit during what
they called “The Great Freedom March.”

I remember walking alongside my two older sisters and eventually being carried by my
parents who were anxious to catch a glimpse and
get energized by the voice and the words of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther
King Jr., that preacher from the South who was changing the way the
world saw us.

His nemesis was the pervasive and oppressive racism and discrimination
of the day that let entire communities think they had the right to
prevent others from enjoying what they took as their God-given right.

Jobs.

Housing.

Safety.

Life.

At the age of five, peering over the crowds while safe in my father’s
arms, my nemesis was the scratchy skirt netting beneath my pretty pink
dress, so I wasn't exactly fired up by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s Jr.'s
electric words of hope and vision.

But fast forward to college when I started to read and learn more
about the words and power of minister King and his message of
revolution and challenging the status quo.

I listened to his speech before concerned clergy and laity at
Riverside Church in New York on April 4 1967 where this Southern
Baptist, civil rights minister, this follower of Christ, made his
public stance on why he was against the war in Vietnam.

He spoke of the sin of silence.

And I became enthralled as he connected the dots of how this nation’s
chance to take war on poverty was usurped by the war on Vietnam.

And how the war of Vietnam was allowed to continue because once
again, we had segregated and demonized and made the situation a "thing"
instead of people.

You see, it’s easy to dismiss someone when you label them as other. Set
those fire hoses on those non-violent protestors seeking justice, they
are just black, ...they don’t matter.

Bomb those huts in those villages, there are overrun ..... with communists.

You can’t know God if you’re loving someone that looks like you.
That’s not ...natural.

Now I know there is great debate on what the Rev. King’s stance would
have been for those of us seeking justice and equal rights in this
country for the lesbian, gay, bisexual transgender community.

I don’t know for certain. But as a gay Christian leading a campaign,
as the Faith Advocacy Coodinator for (GIFT) Gays in Faith Together, as a precocious child who recognized the importance of Dr. King when
I saw my father cry for the first time in my life after the murder of the Rev. King

,as an African American lesbian Christian who followed, listened to and
read the words of the Rev. King who speaks of his “commitment to
Jesus Christ”; his words and actions tell me that he would stand with
me in solidarity as I visit churches across West Michigan and ask for
your support in letting others know that yes, you can be gay and
Christian.

I believe in the power of his conviction and faith as I say Yes, you
can be gay and a person of faith.

I feel the power of his passion as I tell you, God does not condemn
you or your love. God does not make mistakes. You are whole. You are
loved. Now go out and be all that God has meant for you to be.

Rev. King said during his speech at Riverside church in New York City
in 1967.

“I speak for the suffering, the helpless and the outcast children. We
( ministers, Christians) are called to speak for the weak, the
voiceless, those called enemies.”

Now many of my gay Christian friends would not consider themselves,
weak or helpless.

We know and recognize that we are all God’s children. We are loved.
We are not mistakes. And because we have been battered and bruised by
those calling themselves Christian and still found our way to love
and follow Christ, we do all that we can to lift up those who have
been hammered by the church’s teachings. By the church’s silence.

But there are many of us out here who are outcast, who have been
called enemy, abomination and they believe it. They take it to heart.
Some take it to an early grave.

That is why my work with churches and the “Gay Christian? Yes!”
campaign is crucial. We want to change the climate of West Michigan
and beyond, making this a safe and welcoming community for the lesbian,
bisexual, gay and transgender community by encouraging vocal and
visible gay Christians and allies..

We want church representatives to join us and help us spread the word
that yes, you can be gay and Christian.

- We want you to tell us what it means for you to be part of an open
and affirming congregation.

- We want you to sign up to mentor churches that want to undergo the
process to become open and affirming.

- We want you to help us raise money for the 2012 billboard campaign
stating “Gay Christian? Yes!"

-We want you to send two members from your congregation and encourage
friends in other congregations to join us as we create a cadre of
volunteers of writers, speakers, prayers, financial supporters,
marketers, web designers to help with the programming, the resources
and the curriculum that will come out of this movement.

-We want you to bring us your ideas on how we can support each other.

- We would like to have at least one church represented from every
denomination in West Michigan so that a gay person can find a place to
be who they are as God made them.

We know that not everyone can find an open and affirming congregation
or they work in a non-affirming place and they feel like pebbles in a
stream.

You can get overwhelmed pretty quickly when you’re the only one, but
when joined by other rocks,... I call us God Rocks in the Stream, or
GRITS.

We can make a difference. So on the last Wednesday of the month,
starting 7 p.m. Jan. 26 in the basement of the First Place Building of
the United Methodist Church, 207 East Fulton, we have our first
support group for adult gay Christians and allies.

It’s a place to come and be heard, to listen, to vent, to feel the
spiritual and emotional support of other gay Christians and allies.

Additional dreams for the year include:
-A prayer service on National
Coming Out Day.

-Forty (40) days of writings and prayers to be posted on our website during
advent from local gay christians and allies

- A Voices campaign featuring video stories of how you found your
congregation as a gay christian and the difference it has made in your
life.

-Affirming sermons from area clergy.

And we would love to have your ideas as we build coalitions.

During the last year of his life, the Rev. King called for a “radical
revolution of values.” He wanted us to move from a thing to a
person-oriented society. He said that “a nation that spends more on
the military than social uplift is approaching spiritual death.”

He asked for a call for “an embracing and unconditional love for all mankind.”

The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. believed in the power of love. His
vision, his dream for this world was all about love and justice.

As we celebrate and recognize his birthday, may we remember the power
of love, of justice and of the importance of making this a reality
for ALL God’s children.

Amen

Do Tell: A Christian Perspective on "Don't Ask Don't Tell"

2010-12-24T06:02:00.000-08:00

By Theresa D. McClellan

Faith Advocacy Coordinator
Gays In Faith Together

As we prepare to celebrate Christ's birth, for followers of Christ, also known as Christians, this is a blessed time indeed.

And as we prepare in this time before Christ's birth known as Advent, how fortuitous that we may also prepare ourselves with one more step in equality for all with the repeal of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell (DADT)."

As a Christian, as an African American woman and as a lesbian, that was my reaction Saturday to the announcement, on the eve of the third week of Advent, that Congress would change the law of the land and break down one more barrier with the repeal of DADT.

Just as the racial integration of the military and the allowance of women in the service helped move this nation forward in truly becoming all that she can be by recognizing the equality of all, so to does the decision to open that circle to gays in the military.

Lesbians and gays have always served in the military, but this act of Congress allows those, who have always been with us, to not fear losing their chosen career because of who they are.

And just as the acceptance of blacks and women into military life created all sorts of ramifications for blacks and women in the private sector, so to will this change.

And that is why the timing is fortuitous.

You see, Advent, that period before the Christmas celebration of the birth of Christ, is a time of waiting, watching, longing and preparing.

Be it the cries of Old Testament Israelites held captive, or my slave ancestors crying out for justice from systemic oppresion, there is a yearning for deliverance from oppression that is marked by prayer; and for Christians celebrated with the coming of Christ into the world.

So what does all this talk of advent and Christ have to do with DADT?

It means that a shift has occured. It means that now we really start talking about equality and what that looks like. It means that we look at what is in place to maintain bias and inequality. It means we look at leaders' ability to lead and create a climate of change that is not based in fear but in awareness, intelligence and wisdom.

It means that we pray.

Some will use Bible passages and their identity as Christians to squelch discourse and by claiming that homosexuality is against God. But as a follower of Christ, as a Christian lesbian, I say to you God created everyone.

Bible passages have been used to approve of slavery and silence women. God doesn't change, our understanding of God changes as we grow silent and listen to God's message, to the Christ message of love.

As Paul stated in a letter to the Galatians 3:27-8
"For as many of you baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, neither slave nor free, neither male nor female for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

As we celebrate the birth of Christ and his message on this Christmas Eve, may it be so.

Merry Christmas and Blessings to you all.

Come celebrate with St Johns United Church of Christ 6 pm tonight at their open and affirming banquet

2010-10-16T07:25:00.000-07:00

Tickets are still available at the door for tonight's celebration of the Open and Affirming designation afforded t St. John's United Church of Christ.

Last night at the Wealthy Street Theatre Queeries Movie "Fish Out of Water," I saw Theresa Bileth the Open and Affirming Committee Chair for St. John's. She was practically floating with excitement on the eve of her first planned community event.

Not only will there be good food, music and supportive friends from area churches present, (and there is still room for you) she is excited about her church.

So hear now from Theresa Bileth about why this is important. And consider your own churches and faith communities. What is there for you to celebrate? Let me know, and I will help spread the news.
------
"On March 26, 2010, St. John's United Church of Christ Grand Rapids was designated the 869th Open and Affirming congregation of the UCC! For those readers that are unaware, this designation recognizes and proclaims the depth of welcome and love that the congregation extends to all people, particularly lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.

Being open is not new to the United Church of Christ. The first gay pastor in the UCC was in 1972. Our church was given it's label because we live it, walk it and talk it every day. (Examples: Our pastor, Bill Lyons, spoke at the Stonewall Candlelight vigil downtown GR, our church was a sponsor for the Rock Out To Come Out concert downtown in Rosa Parks Circle in Summer '09, we participate in the AIDS Walks, we attend benefits around the city and hold a booth at West MI Pride Fest every year just to name a few.)

We have a history of standing up for others and wanted to have an event that would invite those in the community to celebrate not only our journey of acceptance but their own. We ALL belong and we are all welcome to participate in the full life of the church and the community.

On Saturday, Oct. 16th, we will gather to celebrate not only our Open and Affirming designation but our history of hospitality and welcome by presenting the St Johns UCC Grand Rapids Open and Affirming Banquet.

We will tell the stories associated with each milestone along the way—from our refugee response in WWII, our welcome of women in leadership, female pastors, gay pastors, our accessibility addition in the 1980s, same sex unions, our Open and Affirming designation earlier this year, etc.

The banquet will also include a beautiful catered dinner by West Michigan Caterer owner Bobby Johnson and wonderful entertainment by multi-album Michigan based recording artist Ben Walter and his band, Notes to Myself.

We are thrilled to present this meaningful celebration. We pray that it shines a bright light on the journey of acceptance and hospitality that the United Church of Christ has always extended to the wider community.

We pray that the people attending will feel inspired to pay it forward, shine brightly and lift those around them. Peace. Hope. Love. Equality. Compassion. Acceptance. Every voice counts!
www.stjohnsuccgr.org"
---------------
Blessings and good luck on your work. St. John's United Church of Christ is located at 1934 Bridge St. NW at the corners of Bridge St, Covell St. and Lake Michigan Drive.

Sexuality and Religion examined Friday 10/15 in The Queeries:Fish Out of Water" movie

2010-10-13T22:08:00.000-07:00

It's been shown at the Free Spirit Worship Center, now the award-winning movie "Fish Out of Water" is coming Friday Oct. 15 to Wealthy Theatre as part of Queeries, the monthly LGBT movie series presented by Grand Valley State University's LGBT Resource Center.

This is a must-see documentary for any gay Christian who has felt like a fish out of water while honoring their faith and their God-given sexuality.

Here is how the Community Media Center describes the event.
"The film tackles the seven Bible verses used to condemn homosexuality and justify marriage discrimination. This feature documentary uses humor and original animation to make a traditionally complex and controversial topic accessible to those who don't like talking about religion and sexuality.

"Fish out of Water dives into the underbelly of America, crisscrosses red and blue states and talks to ministers from every denomination to uncover America's impassioned relationship with homosexuality and the Bible. With slapstick animation and quirky interviews taken everywhere from barbershops to mega churches, Fish out of Water delivers a voice to the oppressed and informs to the misled.

"Most importantly, Fish out of Water sits down with hundreds of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender folks to impart their experiences with faith and sexuality. This unique lens spans across culture, race... Written by Ky Dickens

The Queeries is a monthly LGBT film series for the Grand Rapids area. It is brought to you by GVSU's LGBT Resource Center, Speak Equal, Rumors Night Club, the Ameriprise office of Sylvia Frattallone, the Network, Planned Parenthood of West and Northern Michigan, and Community Media Center

After watching the movie, come visit the tables of gay friendly groups in the lobby including mine, the Gays In Faith Together table.

Here you will find multiple resources including copies of sermons from affirming local ministers on the subject. You can sign up for more information on how to join the "Gay Christian? Yes!" action teams that interest you and sign up for a new support group of gay Christians and allies who choose to stay and change from the inside, their non-affirming congregations and Christian organizations.

Tickets for the show are $6 for the general public and $3 for Community Media Center members. Doors open at 7:15 p.m. amd the 2.5 hour movie begins at 8 p.m.

For more information, see the community media center website. www.grcmc.org/events.

Will your high school be represented during ally week?

2010-10-12T00:03:00.000-07:00

Blessings,
Wednesday, Oct. 13, is Ally Week for ALL K-12 students in Kent County. As everyone has been reacting to the rash of deaths across the country from bullying, what actions are being taken? What conversations are being held?

On Wednesday from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. students from across Kent County have the opportunity to learn about celebrating ally week in their schools. They will participate in an anti-oppression training led by a national staff member from the Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network and they get the chance to meet students from across Kent County who are trying to make their schools better places for everyone.

This event will be held at 227 East Fulton Street in Wesley Hall at the First United Methodist Church downtown and is organized by student leaders, said Kristen Hanson, of the Grand Rapids chapter GLSEN.

The site provides ample free parking. There will be free food and free goodies. This event is only for K-12 students, friends and and educators.

For more information, send an email to grandrapids@chapters.glsen.org

Can We Talk? Join us in community dialogues

2010-09-29T13:40:00.000-07:00

Blessings,
Following this brief introduction and invitation is a reprint of the "Be The Bridge" article I wrote for the Be One: Catalyst for Inclusion newsletter explaining transformative dialogue.

Starting the week of Oct 3 and for the next six weeks, there will be small, free, community dialogues across Grand Rapids at various nights as members of the lgbt and heterosexual community engage in safe, thoughtful, respectful and eventually transformative dialogues with one another.

Everyday there is something in the news regarding someone from the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and heterosexual communities that can lead to vitriol instead of conversation, heat instead of light,judgement instead of gentleness, ignorance instead of education.

What if we talked and really listened.

Interested? GIFT is collaborating with Be One, whose mission is to be a catalyst for dialogue, learning and healing and to create a safe region for all people, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ability, religion or other social identity.

---------------------
The talks will be held as follows. Please contact a facilitator if you care to join or walt.marston@att.net for more details and to sign up for future dialogues.

-Wed. 7-9 pm
West Michigan Strategic Alliance meeting room, 951 Wealthy St. SE
Theresa D. McClellan (Theresa@GaysInFaithTogether.org)
Tedi R. Parsons (tediparsons@comcast.net)

-Wed. 2-4 p.m.
Free Spirit Worship Center, 820 Monroe Ave. NW
Rev. Mary Martin (revmarymartin@freespiritworship.org)
Mark Hepper (heptunes1023@sbcglobal.net)

-Tues. 7-9 pm
First Place Bldg. 207 East Fulton St. across from First UMC Church
Jim Lucas (JimLuca@GaysInFaithTogether.org)
Cara Oosterhouse (caraoosterhouse@prodigy.net)

-Sunday 2-4 pm
Eastern Ave. CRC, 514 Eastern Ave. SE
Chad Beyer (chad@inclusionpower.com)
Vicki Johnston (maksadif2@msn.com)

By Theresa D. McClellan
Be One Executive Committee member

There is hope and excitement brewing that started on the edge of
downtown Grand Rapids this summer as 35 leaders, who are serious
about inclusion, gathered to learn how to do more than just talk.
They gathered in the offices of the Grand Rapids Community
Foundation, brought there by a vision to create a more inclusive
environment for LGBT people in West Michigan through
transformative dialogue.

While many in the room have had the vision, it all started coming together June 8 at the “Be the
Bridge” daylong interactive conference created by Be One: Catalyst for Inclusion.

And by the end of the day, those who believe there is room for all also realized they are not alone and there will be many strategies and efforts; as evidenced by the connections made in the room.

Be One brought in a national leader on inter-group relations to explore how to facilitate meaningful dialogue about lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender issues.

After undergoing her skillful exercises and guided discussions, the sparks and potential for
change were palpable even for the University of Michigan facilitator, Adrienne Dessel, who said
she ended the program “feeling excited” for our West Michigan community.

So what caused all this excitement?

One source of excitement is seeing the diverse community interest with the presence of business
professionals, faith leaders, students, widows, young, old, gay, straight and the realization that
some people will not fit into boxes.

Another source of excitement was the energy generated by the exercises and group
conversations which led to a deeper understanding of the power of safe spaces, skilled facilitation and group dynamics.

In just eight hours, participants were sharing thoughtful, personal and powerful pieces of
themselves which allowed them to go deeper and in some circumstances broaden their outlook
on how people are seen.

For example, after a seemingly innocuous questionnaire defining ourselves which resulted in an
open group conversation on interpretations and definitions, one participant commented, “just
having this conversation has changed how I think of myself.”

Indeed, creating awareness, common ground and new ways of thinking is part of what happen
with transformative dialogue and such dialogue can prove to be a catalyst for change.

As we engaged in deeper conversations, questions were asked, which could not be fully explored
in an eight-hour segment, but which could result in powerful and life-changing discussions in six
to eight week sessions.

This is part of the plan for Be One.

The June 8 training gave participants a taste of what could happen during a six-week dialogue
workshop. Those sessions are scheduled for the fall of 2010 and will involve six teams of six to
10 persons learning and practicing the Be One system of dialogue which could lead to the “full
inclusion” of LGBT and other marginalized individuals and groups in our community.

Now some may wonder what is the benefit of engaging in conversation with those who do not see
the world the same. Or to be more direct, what is the point in engaging in conversation with
someone who views gayness as a sin and those in the LGBT community as sinners?

While some participants shared stories of being shunned by their churches and losing their faith,
others shared stories of being ostracized and refusing to leave, causing them to stay in the
difficult and worthwhile conversations. They told of transforming stories, of baby steps and of the
power that comes from honoring the "critical events" in our lives which change us.

Take the step. Join us.

Theresa D. McClellan serves on the executive committee of Be One: Catalyst of Inclusion. She is also the Faith Advocacy Coordinator for Gays In Faith Together. For
further information about Be One, visit b1catalyst.org or email walt.marston@att.net

Join us

2010-06-30T20:45:00.000-07:00

By Theresa D. McClellan

Faith Advocacy Coordinator
Gays In Faith Together

When I first came to Grand Rapids in 1980, we were known as the city of churches. We were defined by our religion and our different denominations.

It wasn‘t always an image that brought to mind open arms and open doors.

But what would happen if we used that clout, that strength, that foundation as the city of churches to create a message, a vision of God’s love - for everyone.

What if we created a network of churches: Baptist, Catholic, Christian Reformed, Church of God in Christ, Episcopalian, Lutheran, Methodist, Non-denominational, Reformed … any way you wanted to worship, it could happen for you, your divorced mother, your gay brother, your transgender neighbor.

You don’t have to hide who you are when you sit in the pew, because as followers of Christ, you can be all that God has meant you to be.

Because you don’t have to hide, you are whole. You are grounded. You are solid in your belief and understanding of God’s love for you and you are learning God’s purpose for you.

Because there is no longer shame heaped upon you as you are, you no longer feel the need to “fit in” and enter into relationships that were never meant for you.

You no longer feel the need to bury your shame and guilt about being who God made you to be by over indulging in food, drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, sex.

You can openly study and learn about and from others like you without fear. Resources are plentiful. You can find movies in your community that challenge you and make you think. You have books, artwork and community events that bring you joy.

Because you are feeling solid in your faith and yourself, you create study groups within your church and you enjoy growing and learning from one another. You partner with other churches for study groups, teaching and learning from one another.

You are excited about reading the Word and engaging others. You see clearly the messages of Christ and even see Christ’s Spirit in others.

You encounter others in the community who are hesitant and who have been taught to be fearful of accepting you and you engage them in conversation. You are grounded and open and with a loving heart.

You recognize that for some, this idea of a gay Christian or a gay person of faith, is foreign and goes against everything they have been taught. And because you come from a place of love; a love of God, a love of yourself, you are firm and loving in your responses.

What is Gay Christian Yes? It is a movement. A reclaiming, if you will, of Christianity. A reclaiming of the social justice message of Christ.

Just as we define ourselves as members of the (lesbian gay,bisexual and transgender) LGBT community, we also define and are defined by our relationship with God. It is personal. It is strong. It is powerful and ever growing.

And because it is a relationship, we nurture it. We question it. We hold it up, exploring its boundaries and we grow it. And the beauty of being a gay Christian is that we also have a chance to be a gift, if you will, to other Christians.

For most heterosexual Christians, their faith is taken for granted and their relationship to God is taken for granted. But because we have questioned and been questioned, we know the faith journey, we are the faith journey and we can be leaders for other Christians, gay, straight, questioning.

Won’t you join GIFT as we create a coalition of individuals, churches and organizations, friends, family and allies who want to make West Michigan a place where all God's children are affirmed ?

-Join our first "Sun & Spirit Book Study Club" starting Tuesday July 27 where we will discuss the first four chapters of "Bulletproof Faith" by the Rev. Candace Chellow-Hodges.
- Attend the "Sisters in a Strange Land" weekend retreat for Christian lesbians led by Melanie Morrison and myself August 20 at the Leaven Center in Ionia county.
- Check out our GIFT website at http://www.gaysinfaithtogether.org/ and become a member
and keep visiting for information on new programming and chances to support GIFT.

Blessings,
Theresa

Fun (d) raising success

2010-05-24T15:47:00.000-07:00

GIFT's first annual soup-making competition and wine-tasting party was a wonderful success Saturday. Thanks to our kitchen chefs for the fantabulous soups and the remarkable wines served up at the Cascade Winery, we raised nearly $700 which will go toward programming and creating new ways of engagement with the lgbt community.

The atmosphere Saturday afternoon was festive and the winery at 4665 Broadmoor SE was filled with the enticing smells of homemade soups, as well as some wonderful dishes created by our kitchen chefs. Visitors dropped by each table, peering into soup pots and and grabbing ladles to serve themselves. Or they clustered in small groups for the wine-tastings of such memorable treats such as the rich and silky red Rossa Grande wine or the decadent raspberry chocolate wine.

There was much laughter as well as full bellies by the end of the day. We expect to have future social events to compliment our issue-driven seminars, community talks, book clubs and speakers. Look here and our facebook page for future events and let us know what events you would like to see.

And just so you know who has bragging rights for the year, kitchen chef Erica DeVries claimed top prize, a beautiful soup mug and plaque in the soup competition with her "pea soup" entry and yours truly claimed second prize with my "savory sausage and spinach soup."
The first place prize for the corporate competitors went to San Chez Bistro with their Chicken Pazoli soup.
Thank you again for all our entrees and we hope to see you again next year for what will be an annual event.

2010-04-19T22:15:00.000-07:00

Soup and Wine Tasting

GIFT puts the FUN in FUNDRAISING!

Come and join us!

Saturday, May 22, 2010

4:30 to 7:30 pm

at the Cascade Winery

4665 Broadmoor Avenue SE

Grand Rapids, MI 49512

Treat your senses to wines made locally by the fantastic vintners at Cascade Winery, while you indulge in tasting sumptuous homemade soups created by competing supporters

Tickets are $5 if purchased in advance, and $7 at the door. The tickets entitle you to six wine tastings and one tasting for each soup. Soup winners will be chosen by donations. The soup with the most donations in the box, WINS!

The money will be used for programming to widen our outreach to lgbt people of faith and to supportive churches wanting to pastor to all.

To purchase tickets in advance, send your check to GIFT at 207 E. Fulton Street, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, or order on-line (two tickets minimum on-line) at www.gaysinfaithtogether.org.

All tickets will be held at the door.

About GIFT

We are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning people (from teens to retirement) with family members, friends, and other supportive folks.

Faith is important to us. GIFT is people who have joined together to form an ecumenical Christian organization with headquarters in Grand Rapids, Michigan. We include people from a wide variety of faith backgrounds, and we welcome everyone to join us in our mission, which is to work toward affirming lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) persons in West Michigan’s faith communities. We want to be a beacon of light which reveals God's love for all people regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. We believe truly unconditional love includes all people.

We invite you to learn more about us!

GIFT

207 East Fulton Street, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

(616) 774-0446

www.gaysinfaithtogether.org

Powerful, thought-provoking speaker coming to Plymouth Church

2010-04-11T23:15:00.000-07:00

Friends, I heard Dr. Julie speak at Synod last year and this is not one to miss. Her story is powerful and poignant and is a very important part of the "t" in lgbt.

PUTTING THE "T" IN LGBT

2010-04-11T23:10:00.000-07:00

Putting the "T" in LGBT

Type:

Education - Workshop

Date:	Sunday, April 18, 2010
Time:	10:00am - 1:00pm
Location:	Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ
Street:	4010 Kalamazoo St. SE
City/Town:	Grand Rapids, MI
	View Map

Description

10 a.m. Sermon followed by soup and salad lunch
12 noon Presentation and Q&A
Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ
4010 Kalamazoo Ave. SE

You don’t have to attend the worship service in order to participate in the presentation. Lunch is free to attendees of worship and/or the workshop. Childcare will be provided.

_____________________
About Plymouth Cong, UCC:

Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ, Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a local congregation of the United Church of Christ, a mainline, Protestant denomination of 1.5 million members, with a tradition of progressive involvement in issues which uphold the rights, dignity, and equality of all people under God.

At Plymouth, we seek to celebrate God's inclusive grace and unconditional love in affirming the diversity of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, and economic status. All have need of God's grace, all have gifts to share for the just and peaceable reign God intends.

Our members have fought in war and fought against war. We have struggled with the question of sexual orientation and identity and have determined that God’s love is big enough to encompass all. We are a mix of ages and ethnicities, social and economic backgrounds. But, in our support and affirmation of each other, we are one family.

_________________________
About Julie Nemecek:

The Rev. Dr. Julie Nemecek is a former university professor who lost her job for following the treatment protocols for her diagnosed condition. The Christian university where she worked said that following these protocols to reach some measure of congruence between mind and body was “un-Christian behavior”. She is a transsexual. During this process, Dr. Nemecek shared her story with the local newspaper. The story was quickly picked up by the Associated Press and ultimately appeared in various media including The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, U.S. News and World Report, Fox News, Newsweek, Christianity Today and numerous other local, regional, national, and international publications or broadcasts. From February 5th through March 15th 2007, Dr. Nemecek averaged 2-3 media interviews a weekday and over 100 interviews before the year was over.

Dr. Nemecek and Joanne, her life partner of 37 years, have been willing to share their story with all who wish to hear it. In the process they have both become outspoken activists for LGBT rights. They recently spoke from the steps of the Michigan Capital to a crowd that was estimated by local police to be nearly 3000. They have shared their story on university and college campuses, churches, and even the occasional high school campus. It is a story of injustice, pain, suffering, hope, and love.

Before moving into higher education in 1990, Rev. Nemecek served for 20 years in pastoral ministry including an inner-city Chicago church. She is an ordained Baptist minister and an ordained elder in the Presbyterian Church. She often shares how the move to an authentic life has had a positive impact on her spiritual life as well as her emotional well-being.

Julie and Joanne have three boys; all married. They also have four grandsons. Dr. Nemecek serves on the boards of Michigan Equality, Soulforce, Michigan Fairness Forum, and PFLAG Jackson as well as the advisory board of Trans Youth Family Allies (TYFA).

Confirmed Guests

The Silence

2010-03-17T23:59:00.000-07:00

By Theresa D. McClellan

Faith Advocacy Coordinator

Gays In Faith Together

Imagine sitting in your church and the pastor states from the pulpit, “we don’t want any homosexuals in our church. And if there are any present, they can leave now.”

No one leaves. No one makes eye contact. Some are in agreement. Some are in silent agony.

Imagine sitting in your church and the pastor calls forth two women seated together in the pews. They are holding a baby. And from the pulpit, the pastor blesses the lesbian couple and baptizes their child.

They are surrounded by blood relatives and their church family who are smiling, applauding, affirming.

Both scenarios have occurred in West Michigan. Both incidents have occurred in Christian churches. Where would you sit?

As an ally, where would you stand?

At the recent showing of “Brother Outsider: The Life of Bayard Rustin” a friend thanked me for allowing an “ally” to be a part of the discussion. Without allies, change will not come.

What is the climate like for the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual transgender community where you pray, work, learn and live?

Would that public Sunday dismissal of gays have future ramifications for the shy young ones seated in the pew trying to understand their own sexuality?

Would those words energize a bully to take action against someone?

On April 16, the National Day of Silence occurs in our high schools and college campuses as a silent protest against hate, bullying and discrimination in our schools.

The student-led movement recognizes those in the lesbian gay bisexual and transgender community who have been silenced by statements of disdain and blatant acts of violence.

According to a national study conducted by Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network. (GLSEN,) more than 85 percents of the lgbt students have reported suffering harassment because of their sexual orientation.

What does this have to do with Gays in Faith Together? or the “Gay Christian? Yes! ” campaign?

Plenty. Discrimination and demeaning words affect everyone. It keeps people in the shadows and in shame. And when it comes from the pulpit, it can be devastating.

But the more we can become a beacon of hope by collaborating with others to affirm the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgenders in our community, the sooner we can make our students safe in their churches and their schools.

That is why we are teaming up with the Gay Straight Alliances of GLSEN led by Kristen Hanson and Speak Equal led by Brooke Murphy to support the students in their Day of Silence.

On April 16, we have opened up The Vine in the basement of First United Methodist Church First Place Building at 207 East Fulton Street for an event called “Day of Silence/Night of Noise” where the students can react to their day of silence in a safe environment.

This is the same location where (G-SAIF) GIFT's Gay Straight Alliance in Faith meets on alternate Tuesday nights.

And on that following Sunday and future Sundays, may pastors of congregations everywhere realize that their sermons have the potential to harm or heal.

And may they choose healing.

Theresa D. McClellan is the Faith Advocacy Coordinator for GIFT. She can be reached at Theresa@GaysInFaithTogether.org.

Black, Christian , Lesbian, not an oxymoron , reprint from the blackbottom.com

2010-03-01T07:05:00.000-08:00

Blessinsgs,

This is a reprint from the March 1, 2010 Theblackbottom.com blog by Dr. Randal Jelks

By Theresa D. McClellan

Faith Advocacy Coordinator

Gays In Faith Together

Twelve years ago while working as a daily news reporter for Michigan’s second largest newspaper, I decided to add another vision of gay America.

The entertainment world was falling over itself in the spring of 1997 from debates on whether “America was ready” for Ellen Degeneres to come out of the closet on national television on the show bearing her name.

And in Grand Rapids, we were reeling from the 1997 heart attack death of 32-year-old Gerry Crane, a popular music teacher beloved by his students, but forced out of his job in the Byron Center School district after the school board learned he married his gay partner. The venom against him from Bible spouting Christians prompted the rise of a group of ministers called Concerned clergy who offered a view of Christ that focused on love and justice.

So I wrote an article on what it was like for me, an African-American Christian lesbian, living in socially conservative Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The crux of the column was that it did not matter if America was ready, WE are ready, WE are everywhere and WE come in all shades, faiths and beliefs.

Among the varied reactions of thank you and how dare you, the more intriguing one was the reaction of the older black sistahs at the hair salons.

“Why’d she have to tell EVERBODY?” they asked.

You see everybody knows Uncle George is gay or Aunty Susie is “funny” that’s just not stuff we as a black community talk about.

At least not to your face; or as a way of getting to know the person as more than a label.

It’s usually whispered. Complete with tipping-the-boat hand rocking gestures and the phrase “s(he’s) funny.”

But it’s 2010 and last year I retired from the Grand Rapids Press after 28 years of telling other people’s stories.

I’m on to my second career as a singer/songwriter, freelance writer and social justice advocate.

In January I became the Faith Advocacy Coordinator for a small non-profit organization here in Grand Rapids called GIFT (Gays In Faith Together) and part of my job is to build a coalition of support for our “Gay Christian? Yes!” campaign.

Because too often, the faithful have been the oppressors of the gay community.

And in some of the black churches, the oppression comes in silence, in dismissal, and in downright demonization of the lgbt community.

After writing my article a dozen years ago and explaining the heartbreak I felt when a former pastor and spiritual mentor rejected me because I told him I loved a woman, my current pastor wrote me saying I would be welcome at his church. He was right.

They underwent a process where the congregation studied, prayed and eventually voted to become open and affirming toward gays. It is a beautiful congregation, they have become family, and they are a predominately white church.

Now as faith advocate, I’ve decided to visit the black pastors where they are. The conversations have been difficult if not downright sad.

Some pastors, more progressive than their congregations, fear they will lose their jobs if they push the issue. Some pastors have a policy of praying away the gay. Some have actually ignored members of their flock who announce they are gay. And some pastors feel bad but don’t know how to move their flock forward.

Last night for Black History month, GIFT showed the award-winning film“Brother Outsider: the Life of Bayard Rustin” the openly gay civil rights strategist behind the 1963 March on Washington.

Because of his sexuality he was practically erased from the history books.

But the battles waged by Mr. Rustin are not issues that remains in the past. Racism and homophobia remain twin evils today. And when the person feeling the brunt of the attack is black and gay, the load can be insurmountable. But Mr. Rustin did not bend.

But how many lgbt (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) people are ignored, dismissed or demonized in their churches right here in Grand Rapids? In your communities?

How many have become invisible in their pews when they come to a church looking for guidance, acceptance, love?

How many young black men and women from the lgbt community, who have never heard of Mr. Rustin, have gone through life thinking no gay person of color made a difference in American history in anything besides entertainment ?

How many black men and women remain silent thinking they are the only one in their church ?

What does that do to a person’s psyche and to their ability to be all that God has made them to be, when they are told that they are on the wrong side of love?

As Faith Advocacy Coordinator for GIFT, we have an affirming message that there are no mistakes, God made and loves us all and YES, you can be gay and Christian.

TELL EVERYBODY !

STAND

2010-02-17T16:21:00.000-08:00

When it’s coming at you from all sides, what kind of person does it take to stand strong and do what has to be done?

For openly gay social justice advocate Bayard Rustin, that question was raised daily as he battled racism and homophobia while organizing the 1963 March on Washington that brought the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. to prominence.

Come to Wealthy Theatre 7 p.m. Sunday Feb. 28 to see the free award-winning movie, “Brother Outsider: the life of Bayard Rustin.”

Mr. Rustin’s path of action, dignity and non-violence remains one of the lesser known stories of the civil rights movement. And the beauty of Black History month is that those acts of character in American history that are highlighted for 28 days, can be used to inspire ALL for 365 days a year.

The battles waged by Mr. Rustin are not issues that remains in the past. Racism and homophobia remain twin evils today. And when the person feeling the brunt of the attack is black and gay, the load can be insurmountable. But he did not bend.

How many lgbt (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) people are ignored, dismissed or demonized in their churches right here in Grand Rapids?

How many have become invisible in their pews when they come to a church looking for guidance, acceptance, love?

What does that do to a person’s psyche and to their ability to be all that God has made them to be when they are told that they are on the wrong side of love?

Let’s start the community conversations.

“Brother Outsider,” the movie sponsored by GIFT (Gays In Faith Together) is in honor of Black History Month. GIFT is continuing it’s outreach to all with an affirming message that there are no mistakes, God made and loves us all and YES, you can be gay and Christian.

Come, join us.

WHERE IS THE LOVE?

2010-02-04T22:24:00.001-08:00

Had a conversation with an old friend. She is one of two mommies to a beautiful little girl. Like most parents they love, nurture and sacrifice to make their child's life easier than their own. Yet, they make an even greater sacrifice. If their child's Christian school learned of the parents love, the child would lose her schooling. She would no longer be welcome. I pray that those who shun,dismiss,demean and deny fellowship in the name of Christianity take a second, third and fourth look at their actions. And then take another look and ask to see the world with Christ eyes. It makes me sad for my adult friends and for their child. And it makes me ask, "Where is the love"

The Knowing

2010-01-27T17:24:00.001-08:00

“The Lord will make a way.”
For as long as I can remember I have been telling family and friends this “Truth” when troubles seemed insurmountable.
For me this phrase means that by taking another look and asking for “God vision,” the answers come.
I’ve always had a solid connection to God; an inner knowing that God was walking with me, guiding my steps, loving me and smiling on me.
As a result, I’ve always had this sense of inner joy and of being blessed. It is a feeling which has buoyed me in some of the most dire circumstances.
Growing up in Detroit, we were raised Catholic in a tiny black Catholic Church school that merged with the local Polish Catholic school.
I learned early the lessons of racism, and the toll of being different. I also discovered the power of music and always, my connection to God.
Once I left Detroit for college at Michigan State University where I pursued a journalism degree, I joined a black gospel college choir which opened up my world even more. I discovered other churches and denominations with a rich social justice history. And yet, I always found something lacking.
By the time I graduated and joined the Grand Rapids Press in 1980 to become it’s religion editor, I was still searching for something.
And as an adult, once I realized I was gay, my personal God- connection did not falter, even though not everyone embraced my view of a God who loves me unconditionally.
I joined churches, enamored with their soul-stirring music or their powerful preaching, only to hear condemning words of people like me.
And once I was in love and looking to share the joys and woes of a new relationship with my spiritual leader, I was personally shot down by the words “That is not of God.”
I was wounded. I questioned. I believed differently. And I prayed.
I believed that God made me whole. That God does not make mistakes and God made me a
left-handed, African-American, lesbian, child of God and follower of Christ.
I also believed my past relationship with God was not changed because of love. I believe in the power of God to soften hearts, open minds, move mountains. So I stayed in those difficult conversations with my old pastor and before he left his old post, he held the Bible up before the congregation and stated, “this is a book of love,” not a weapon.
Since then I have participated in and led retreats for Christian lesbians finding their journey to God, in the Sisters in a Strange Land retreats at the Leaven Center in neighboring Ionia county.
So many of us have been wounded, or worse, when falsely told that God turns away from us because of who we love.
I pray daily, commune with God daily and continue to be awe-struck by the power of believing.
Today I am the Faith Advocacy Coordinator with Gays In Faith Together (GIFT), a turn of events that started with a leap of faith in pursuing another career after 28 years with the Grand Rapids Press.
I am excited to be working with you laying the groundwork for the “Gay? Christian? Yes!“ Campaign.
Our hope is to make West Michigan a place that affirms gays of faith..
My dream is to start the conversations, prayerfully and willfully, raising the veil from the pew whisperings and prepare to embrace all of God’s children and all that God has made us and meant us to be.
Growing up Catholic there was an old song I loved,

“They will know we are Christians by our love.”
Imagine.

Welcome

2010-01-27T16:48:00.001-08:00

Welcome to Theresa's Table. I am Theresa, Faith Advocacy Coordinator for GIFT (Gays In Faith Together) in West Michigan. I am a writer, singer, lesbian, African American, gay Christian. A follower of Christ. And at this table, all are welcome. Come visit here often as we explore the voices and views of West Michigan gay Christians and supporters of Christ's message of the greatest commandment - to love. Here you will find essays, local events by and for gay Christians and reactions to local and national events.