We already have gay and lesbian people in our congregation, and members are fine with that. Isn't that enough? Why do we need to make a public statement?
Imagine being afraid to visit a church, having to wonder whether you would be ostracized or condemned on your first visit. This is exactly what many lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people (LGBT) fear when they contemplate attending church, and the fear only grows if they risk becoming active in a church community. "They accept me now, but what if they find out? Will they reject me and all I've given to the congregation?"
Why make a public welcoming statement? Consider this: Christians lead the charge against LGBT people. You may be welcoming, but if you don't state it publicly, you're aligned with condemning Christians. LGBT people have to assume that you're not welcoming, unless you go out of your way to say otherwise.
Openly proclaiming your congregation's inclusive welcome to LGBT people can bring new experiences of loving hospitality:
- Parents and family members of LGBT people may discover, often for the first time, that they can safely talk about their personal concerns and struggles-or bring their LGBT child to church.
- Young parents who give birth to a baby whose gender is ambiguous may find needed support for their journey.
- Youth struggling with sexual identity and responsible sexual behavior may find positive role models and an open forum for discussion that breaks through their isolation and confusion.
