Over the last few months (through a mutual friend), I've become internet friends with Kathy Baldock, an evangelical Christian and a straight ally for LGBTQI Christians caught up in the tensions of wanting to stay connected with their evangelical roots.
Kathy has been keeping up with the fate of LGBTQI persons in Uganda and exploring the connection with anti-gay activists from the United States, like Scott Lively, who have stirred the pot. Her most recent post quotes at length a piece from the Ugandan Newspaper, Rolling Stone. The author, Muhame Giles, is writing what is clearly a propaganda piece about the death of David Kato (the Advocacy Officer for Sexual Minorities) in some of the most homophobic language imaginable.
My genteel side wondered if publishing Giles' article was really necessary. On reflection, I think it is absolutely necessary for us to see what kind of environment the LGBTQI community faces every day in Uganda.
I deeply appreciate Kathy's work and I hope that, as part of our reconciling ministry, we at UUMC can give whatever support and help our brothers and sisters on the conservative evangelical wing of the church need as they seek justice for all God's children.
If you read Kathy's blog, be forewarned that there is some very rough language in the article by Giles. With that said, here's the link:
http://canyonwalkerconnections.com/2011/02/lies-kill/comment-page-1/#comment-6110
Very glad you are doing this blogging thing and helping UUMC become a better and more public example of Christ's work through the reconciling movement.
ReplyDeleteI too am straight, not narrow. In fact, this church has been instrumental in so many ways in my life: one of those was learning as much as I could about being a gay man. I cannot think the church and God enough for bringing me light and vision through my dear friends in Christ who are homosexual. They lead by example.
But, hey, John? Aren't you winning a toaster for all this????? Katie Kelfer-Taylor
Thanks, John, for keeping the focus on moving toward the reconciling ministry. One of the questions that you referenced in the earlier blog was whether the church would lose membership when we become reconciling. It cuts both ways. I almost left when I realized that the Methodist church discriminates. The only thing that kept me from bolting was the example of the gay members of our congregation. If they can be patient, so can I. I am thrilled that we are on the verge of taking this next step and I pray for the day when Methodism wakes up to the spirit of the gospel and embraces all.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Jane and Katie. Ha ha--no toaster!
ReplyDeleteI do think you're right that it cuts both ways, and I'm seeing so many folks wanting to join UUMC who are all over the reconciling initiative.