Posts Tagged ‘LGBT equality and inclusion’
This Is Not The Progress I Wanted: A Queer Christian Defends Diversity
Same rights, same love, same values: this mantra is repeated across our movement as we work to claim space for LGBTQ people in an exclusive society. In a society that meets nonconformity with violence, it is no wonder we want to blend in. But if equality is earned through sameness, how can we answer to folks…
Read MoreReclaiming Our Christian Faith
Last week, our hearts were broken for an eight year old Virginia girl who was shamed and excluded by her Christian school because she does not dress and act enough “like a girl.” The same day, World Vision announced they would hire individuals in same-sex marriages—a decision they reversed after merely two days with an apology…
Read MoreBelieve Out Loud Director Joins Post-Election Panel Discussion
Washington, D.C.-November 15, 2012—Joseph Ward III, Director of Believe Out Loud, joins faith leaders at the U.S. Capitol tonight for a post-election panel discussion: “The Next Chapter in LGBT Justice: A Faith Perspective.” The discussion, convened by the Raben Group with Metropolitan Community Churches, will reflect upon the state of collaboration between progressive faith leaders…
Read MoreDeeply Held Religious Cake
When a person begins to unravel the various meanings in the Masterpiece Cakeshop Ltd., et al v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission decision, recently rendered by the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS), it becomes quickly obvious that what this ruling means in legal terms and what it means in the daily lives of LGBTQ+ American citizens is incredibly different.
Read MoreRev. Candy Holmes’ Resignation from MCC Leadership Roles
Dear friends and colleagues,
There are few things certain in life, but change is certain. Today I am writing to share a significant change in my ministry and why this shift is critical.
Read MoreThe Three Fault Lines Of Injustice Against Rev. Darlene Garner
As we wrap up Black History Month, my mind and heart are returning to Rev. Darlene Garner and the injustice she experienced at the hands of the Metropolitan Community Church, a denomination to which she faithfully gave her leadership and ministry. I have been an ally of the Metropolitan Community Church since I attended my…
Read MoreTips For Getting Through The Hard Holidays
The holiday season is rough for many people in the LGBTQ community. Extra expectations, financial strains, and social isolation cause depression rates to rise. Many people have tensions with their loved ones over their sexuality and gender expression. When that’s coupled with the extra religious observances that take place in the holiday season, it can…
Read MoreI’m Planning a Wedding in a State with a License To Discriminate
As a girl, I never dreamt of marrying in the church, yet I will be doing just that in May. Growing up Southern Baptist in my hometown of Slidell, Louisiana, I received the message early on that gay people were not Christians, and did not love God or family. When my attraction to women became…
Read MoreClose The Door, Or Open to All?
I was excited to take my now husband to the city I had considered home for many years. It was going to be his first time in New York City, having lived his whole adult life in the Pacific Northwest. I had lived in New York City for several years before moving to Washington State…
Read MoreStanding Up Against Discrimination
On Tuesday, the Supreme Court of the United States will hear a case about whether religious beliefs give businesses that are open to the public a right to discriminate. The case is about David Mullins and Charlie Craig, who visited Masterpiece Cakeshop in 2012 to order a cake for their upcoming wedding reception. The bakery…
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