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
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Join us in Lansing May 14 for statewide faith-based conference on LGBT inclusion
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.
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.
Monday, April 18, 2011
How to make soup
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.
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.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Where else can you say mmmmm, ahhhh, wow
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.
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.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Exciting week of opportunities for affirming the LGBT community
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!
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!
Monday, February 28, 2011
Michigan Civil Rights Commissions wants to hear your bullying stories
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.
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.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
A Grand Rapids' PFLAG?
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,
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
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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,
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