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
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Friday, December 24, 2010
Do Tell: A Christian Perspective on "Don't Ask Don't Tell"
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.
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.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Come celebrate with St Johns United Church of Christ 6 pm tonight at their open and affirming banquet
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.
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.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Sexuality and Religion examined Friday 10/15 in The Queeries:Fish Out of Water" movie
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.
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.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Will your high school be represented during ally week?
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
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
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Can We Talk? Join us in community dialogues
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
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
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Join us
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
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
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