The mission of Matthew 25 AIDS Services, Inc. to support, educate and treat those infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS is lived out in many ways. From the very beginning, Matthew 25’s commitment to treatment has been based on the philosophy that HIV/AIDS care must be high quality, comprehensive, and holistic. Imagine a wooden stagecoach wheel. The patient is the center of that wheel, the very HUB. Surrounding the center is spokes. In our world at Matthew 25, each of the spokes represents a critical connection for the success of the patient as well as the organization. The treatment services spokes represent many of the disciplines we provide to each patient receiving care.
The first spoke is the HIV Specialist Provider in collaboration with an infectious disease physician making an assessment of each patient’s disease process by critical examination of the patient, laboratory data that is obtained on-site at our facilities, past history, medication history, and an array of other factors. Based on the assessment, a treatment plan is established, a medication regiment is selected if indicated, and future visits and laboratory tests are determined.
The second spoke, the Adherence Nurse, works with patients to educate them about the disease, their medications and safety information. She then follows them for assertive side effect management and to help them adhere to their medications and appointments.
Matthew 25 feels that mental health plays a huge role in how the patient learns to cope with the chronic disease state of HIV/AIDS; therefore we add the third spoke. We ask that each patient meet with our Social Worker for as assessment of any mental health problems that may need assistance such as depression, substance abuse or anxiety.
Another important spoke, the Care Coordinator, works with each client to ensure access to entitlements such as insurance, disability, and any state programs.
The fourth spoke, the clinic nurse ensures that the patient’s immunizations and nutrition needs are evaluated. Finally the last care issue is explored by one of our Comprehensive Risk Counseling and Services staff members who help look at any barriers that might prevent the patient from dealing with their diagnosis and interaction with others. Such things as disclosure issues and protecting their partner from transmission of the HIV virus in a non-judgmental way, eases the stress and strain this may be causing the patient.
As you can see, managing the health of the HIV patient is very comprehensive and requires a team of folks, with the health and well-being of the patient always directly in the center, the HUB.
Click here to find out more.
October 07, 2009
SNN Recomends 10/7/09-Equality Illinois
A bill that would legalize same-sex marriage was recently introduced in the Illinois state legislature, and Equality Illinois is working to rally support for its passage:
OUR MISSION
The mission of Equality Illinois is to secure, protect and defend equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Illinois.
OUR VISION
We envision a fair and unified Illinois where everyone is treated equally with dignity and respect and where all people live freely regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
OUR VALUES
Inclusiveness. Equality Illinois belongs to all those who believe in our vision and mission. We will be accessible to and proactively engage others in our statewide community as owners of our vision and mission.
Respect. Equality Illinois believes in the value of others—their opinions and their work. It is our respect for others that builds our collaborations and partnerships.
Fairness. Equality Illinois believes that everyone should have the same rights, responsibilities and opportunities afforded to them regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.
Effectiveness. Equality Illinois believes that success comes from the highest impact approaches to achieving our vision and mission.
OUR GOALS
* Promote legislation to protect the rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) individuals with regard to safe schools, hospital visitation, inheritance rights, bereavement leave and the many other rights that affect LGBT citizens across Illinois.
* Maintain the visibility of LGBT issues in the Illinois General Assembly, the community and the workplace.
* Oppose legislation which seeks to limit the civil rights of the LGBT community, such as anti-gay adoption bills, constitutional bans on same-sex marriage or attempts to rescind or restrict the Illinois non-discrimination bill signed into law in January 2005 (SB3186).
* Expand statewide grassroots support through an enhanced communication network, technical assistance and on-site support.
* Mobilize support and increase statewide participation in the legislative process through activities such as conferences and lobby days.
Click here to find out more.
OUR MISSION
The mission of Equality Illinois is to secure, protect and defend equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Illinois.
OUR VISION
We envision a fair and unified Illinois where everyone is treated equally with dignity and respect and where all people live freely regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
OUR VALUES
Inclusiveness. Equality Illinois belongs to all those who believe in our vision and mission. We will be accessible to and proactively engage others in our statewide community as owners of our vision and mission.
Respect. Equality Illinois believes in the value of others—their opinions and their work. It is our respect for others that builds our collaborations and partnerships.
Fairness. Equality Illinois believes that everyone should have the same rights, responsibilities and opportunities afforded to them regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.
Effectiveness. Equality Illinois believes that success comes from the highest impact approaches to achieving our vision and mission.
OUR GOALS
* Promote legislation to protect the rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) individuals with regard to safe schools, hospital visitation, inheritance rights, bereavement leave and the many other rights that affect LGBT citizens across Illinois.
* Maintain the visibility of LGBT issues in the Illinois General Assembly, the community and the workplace.
* Oppose legislation which seeks to limit the civil rights of the LGBT community, such as anti-gay adoption bills, constitutional bans on same-sex marriage or attempts to rescind or restrict the Illinois non-discrimination bill signed into law in January 2005 (SB3186).
* Expand statewide grassroots support through an enhanced communication network, technical assistance and on-site support.
* Mobilize support and increase statewide participation in the legislative process through activities such as conferences and lobby days.
Click here to find out more.
Matthew 25 Resources 10/7/09-Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee
Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee opened its doors in 1978 with commitment from several community leaders. The purpose of the organization was to provide a central distribution center for companies, groups, and individuals who wished to help provide food for Middle Tennessee's hungry. Second Harvest's mission is to feed hungry people and work to solve hunger issues in our community.
Modeled after the first food bank established in Phoenix in the mid-1970s, Second Harvest was designed to collect food that would otherwise be wasted, inspect and sort this food, and distribute it to soup kitchens, pantries, and shelters serving the hungry. During the first year, this process resulted in a total distribution of 160,000 pounds of food to 75 member agencies.
Today, Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee is one of the largest and most comprehensive of over 200 food banks and food distribution centers nationwide. During the 2006/2007 fiscal year, Second Harvest distributed more than 37.4 million pounds of food to hungry men, women, and children. Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee was named 2003 Affiliate of the Year by America's Second Harvest. The Food Bank is proud to share this prestigious award with the thousands of supporters and leaders who have supported Second Harvest over the past 30 years.
Second Harvest’s vision of ending hunger is more important than ever. Hunger is a big problem, and it cannot be solved without everyone’s help. There are 35 million Americans deemed by the government to be food insecure, and there are more than 8 million children receiving food assistance. One in five people in a soup kitchen line is now a child. In Middle Tennessee alone, 47% of the people Second Harvest serves are children.
Click here to find out more.
Modeled after the first food bank established in Phoenix in the mid-1970s, Second Harvest was designed to collect food that would otherwise be wasted, inspect and sort this food, and distribute it to soup kitchens, pantries, and shelters serving the hungry. During the first year, this process resulted in a total distribution of 160,000 pounds of food to 75 member agencies.
Today, Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee is one of the largest and most comprehensive of over 200 food banks and food distribution centers nationwide. During the 2006/2007 fiscal year, Second Harvest distributed more than 37.4 million pounds of food to hungry men, women, and children. Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee was named 2003 Affiliate of the Year by America's Second Harvest. The Food Bank is proud to share this prestigious award with the thousands of supporters and leaders who have supported Second Harvest over the past 30 years.
Second Harvest’s vision of ending hunger is more important than ever. Hunger is a big problem, and it cannot be solved without everyone’s help. There are 35 million Americans deemed by the government to be food insecure, and there are more than 8 million children receiving food assistance. One in five people in a soup kitchen line is now a child. In Middle Tennessee alone, 47% of the people Second Harvest serves are children.
Click here to find out more.
Daily Devotional 10/7/09 While You Wait
From: Reflections
Psalm 37:4, NKJV: Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.
When we make our requests to God, do we consider His request of us? He knows our requests before we ask, even as He knows our hearts. But He also desires that we know His heart, and that the nature of our requests will mature into something that reflects His desire for us. I may have a situation I am waiting for Him to resolve. Perhaps I need a job, or to sell a house, or something else I feel I have little control over. I make my request to God, and I ask people to pray for me that my situation be resolved quickly. But what might I be missing? Why does God wait to meet my need? There is a good chance that there is a need I have that God needs to show me that is not the need I am focused on. There is a good reason why God is not resolving my issue quickly. My prayer request, therefore, needs to mature to a level wherein I ask Him, what He needs of me. My prayer request turns from, “Lord, please fix this;” to “Lord, show me what You need from me where I am.” The Lord will indeed meet all of our needs. But what is it He desires from you while you wait?
Psalm 37:4, NKJV: Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.
When we make our requests to God, do we consider His request of us? He knows our requests before we ask, even as He knows our hearts. But He also desires that we know His heart, and that the nature of our requests will mature into something that reflects His desire for us. I may have a situation I am waiting for Him to resolve. Perhaps I need a job, or to sell a house, or something else I feel I have little control over. I make my request to God, and I ask people to pray for me that my situation be resolved quickly. But what might I be missing? Why does God wait to meet my need? There is a good chance that there is a need I have that God needs to show me that is not the need I am focused on. There is a good reason why God is not resolving my issue quickly. My prayer request, therefore, needs to mature to a level wherein I ask Him, what He needs of me. My prayer request turns from, “Lord, please fix this;” to “Lord, show me what You need from me where I am.” The Lord will indeed meet all of our needs. But what is it He desires from you while you wait?
The threat of a same-sex couple not being together when one of them is in a life-threatening situation in a hosiptal is very real, and so are the pain and the scars it leaves. Here is a story from the New York Times which illustrates it:
When a loved one is in the hospital, you naturally want to be at the bedside. But what if the staff won’t allow it?
That’s what Janice Langbehn, a social worker in Lacey, Wash., says she experienced when her partner of 18 years, Lisa Pond, collapsed with an aneurysm during a Florida vacation and was taken to a Miami trauma center. She died there, at age 39, as Ms. Langbehn tried in vain to persuade hospital officials to let her visit, along with the couple’s adopted children.
“I have this deep sense of failure for not being at Lisa’s bedside when she died,” Ms. Langbehn said. “How I get over that I don’t know, or if I ever do.”
Isn't this situation most often brought about by the prejudices of the hospital staff or those who make regulations the staff is required to follow? Hopefully telling these stories will help prevent more from occurring.
Click here to read the rest of the New York Times story.
The case, now the subject of a federal lawsuit in Florida, is being watched by gay rights groups, which say same-sex partners often report being excluded from a patient’s room because they aren’t “real” family members.
And lawyers say the case could affect the way hospitals treat all patients with nonmarital relationships, including older people who choose not to marry, unmarried heterosexual couples and single people who rely on the support of close friends rather than relatives.
When a loved one is in the hospital, you naturally want to be at the bedside. But what if the staff won’t allow it?
That’s what Janice Langbehn, a social worker in Lacey, Wash., says she experienced when her partner of 18 years, Lisa Pond, collapsed with an aneurysm during a Florida vacation and was taken to a Miami trauma center. She died there, at age 39, as Ms. Langbehn tried in vain to persuade hospital officials to let her visit, along with the couple’s adopted children.
“I have this deep sense of failure for not being at Lisa’s bedside when she died,” Ms. Langbehn said. “How I get over that I don’t know, or if I ever do.”
Isn't this situation most often brought about by the prejudices of the hospital staff or those who make regulations the staff is required to follow? Hopefully telling these stories will help prevent more from occurring.
Click here to read the rest of the New York Times story.
The case, now the subject of a federal lawsuit in Florida, is being watched by gay rights groups, which say same-sex partners often report being excluded from a patient’s room because they aren’t “real” family members.
And lawyers say the case could affect the way hospitals treat all patients with nonmarital relationships, including older people who choose not to marry, unmarried heterosexual couples and single people who rely on the support of close friends rather than relatives.
October 06, 2009
LGBT Helping Hands 10/6/09-Milwaukee LGBT Community Center
The Milwaukee LGBT Community Center is a community-based organization represented by more than 150 volunteers and over 300 members. It's mission is to improve the quality of life for LGBT people in the Metro Milwaukee area.
This is done by focusing on five core objectives:
1. Provide a home for the birth, nurture and celebration of our organizations, culture and diversity
2. Initiate, implement and advocate for programs and services that meet the needs of our communities
3. Educate the public and our communities to encourage positive changes in the systems affecting our lives;
4. Empower our individuals and groups to achieve their fullest potential;
5. Cultivate a culture of diversity and inclusion in all phases of the project.
Click here to find out more.
This is done by focusing on five core objectives:
1. Provide a home for the birth, nurture and celebration of our organizations, culture and diversity
2. Initiate, implement and advocate for programs and services that meet the needs of our communities
3. Educate the public and our communities to encourage positive changes in the systems affecting our lives;
4. Empower our individuals and groups to achieve their fullest potential;
5. Cultivate a culture of diversity and inclusion in all phases of the project.
Click here to find out more.
Encouraging Words 10/6/09-Religion Is Easy
From Relevant Magazine:
Religion (in an admittedly strictly Christian sense of the word) is a verb. It is an external act without internal change. It means living a life where God only exists in our daily habits, but not in our heart. It is an easy way into heaven. A way in which we give nothing up, except maybe an hour a day for a devotion. Maybe it’s even just that hour per week that you make it to church.
That, my friends, is a lie. Here is the truth: “The most important one [command],” answered Jesus, “is this … ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these” (Mark 12:29-31, NIV).
I am sure most of you have heard this at some point in your life. The gist is quite easy to figure out actually: love God first, love people second. That is it. Do you see anything about going to church? Here’s a hint: I don’t.
Sadly, our culture has turned loving God into a one-hour per week coffee date. We’ve turned it into something we simply put on our to-do lists and weekly calendars. Think about what would happen if that was what your relationship with your spouse looked like. Or with your best friend. Would it get the job done? I won’t even give you a hint for that one because the answer is too easy.
If you are someone whose spiritual life revolves around a checklist of going to church, reading your Bible, praying, evangelizing or even serving the homeless, you are living a religion.
Click here to read the rest of the essay and get a taste of what living beyond religion means.
Religion (in an admittedly strictly Christian sense of the word) is a verb. It is an external act without internal change. It means living a life where God only exists in our daily habits, but not in our heart. It is an easy way into heaven. A way in which we give nothing up, except maybe an hour a day for a devotion. Maybe it’s even just that hour per week that you make it to church.
That, my friends, is a lie. Here is the truth: “The most important one [command],” answered Jesus, “is this … ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these” (Mark 12:29-31, NIV).
I am sure most of you have heard this at some point in your life. The gist is quite easy to figure out actually: love God first, love people second. That is it. Do you see anything about going to church? Here’s a hint: I don’t.
Sadly, our culture has turned loving God into a one-hour per week coffee date. We’ve turned it into something we simply put on our to-do lists and weekly calendars. Think about what would happen if that was what your relationship with your spouse looked like. Or with your best friend. Would it get the job done? I won’t even give you a hint for that one because the answer is too easy.
If you are someone whose spiritual life revolves around a checklist of going to church, reading your Bible, praying, evangelizing or even serving the homeless, you are living a religion.
Click here to read the rest of the essay and get a taste of what living beyond religion means.
SNN Recommends 10/6/09-Good As You
Irreverent doesn't do this site justice, but justice is one of the primary goals of its founder and editor, Jeremy Hooper:
Good As You represents a new generation of GLBT activism. Now is the time for intelligent, progressive-minded individuals to step up and fight for the common rights of which they might be denied. We're here to rally the troops.
* We have made it our mission to investigate any organization/media outlet/personality in regards to discriminatory language or actions. In turn we will always extend the opportunity for these individuals or groups to speak on their own behalf, as we do support the First Amendment Right of all.
* We strive to provide a safe, progressive, and positive forum in which we work to eliminate discrimination and intolerance. Privacy will always be protected, and all sources/tips will remain anonymous.
* We don't feel it is our right or responsibility to "out" anyone, and we vow to never do so. Don't bother sending us "we saw so-and-so groping a twink at SBNY" messages. We do not care.
Our tone is light, but our message is firm: We will not sit back and be led to a society that favors discrimination over diversity.
Click here to check it out.
Good As You represents a new generation of GLBT activism. Now is the time for intelligent, progressive-minded individuals to step up and fight for the common rights of which they might be denied. We're here to rally the troops.
* We have made it our mission to investigate any organization/media outlet/personality in regards to discriminatory language or actions. In turn we will always extend the opportunity for these individuals or groups to speak on their own behalf, as we do support the First Amendment Right of all.
* We strive to provide a safe, progressive, and positive forum in which we work to eliminate discrimination and intolerance. Privacy will always be protected, and all sources/tips will remain anonymous.
* We don't feel it is our right or responsibility to "out" anyone, and we vow to never do so. Don't bother sending us "we saw so-and-so groping a twink at SBNY" messages. We do not care.
Our tone is light, but our message is firm: We will not sit back and be led to a society that favors discrimination over diversity.
Click here to check it out.
Matthew 25 Resource 10/6/09: Sulzbacher Center (Jacksonville, FL)
We are Northeast Florida’s only provider of comprehensive services for homeless men, women and children.We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.We serve nutritious meals and offer safe shelter. But that is just the beginning. We provide outstanding health care and high-quality children’s programs. Our job placement assistance and life skills programs equip men and women for employment and for success. We offer something simple, but important—hope.
Transforming Lives
Three thousand of our neighbors—men, women and children—are homeless every night in Jacksonville. Each one has an immediate need for food and shelter. But just as important, each one deserves the opportunity to achieve a better life with a home of their own, an income to live on and access to health care. Sulzbacher Center provides programs that transform lives. In the process, we create a better city for all of us. And we need your help.
Our Mission
To empower homeless and at-risk men, women and children to achieve a better life through a full range of services, both direct and in collaboration with community partners, thus renewing hope and restoring lives back into the fabric of the community.
Click here to find out more.
Transforming Lives
Three thousand of our neighbors—men, women and children—are homeless every night in Jacksonville. Each one has an immediate need for food and shelter. But just as important, each one deserves the opportunity to achieve a better life with a home of their own, an income to live on and access to health care. Sulzbacher Center provides programs that transform lives. In the process, we create a better city for all of us. And we need your help.
Our Mission
To empower homeless and at-risk men, women and children to achieve a better life through a full range of services, both direct and in collaboration with community partners, thus renewing hope and restoring lives back into the fabric of the community.
Click here to find out more.
Daily Devotional 10/6/09 Christ Goes With You
From: Reflections
John 15:4, NIV: Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
Regardless of where you are, Christ is there. When you are atop the mountain praising God and walking in the warmth of His love, He is there. When you are walking through the valley of the shadows, He is there. You may be saying, “Yes, I know that, but…” one thing or another has stolen your joy or your peace. And yet, the joy and peace you need is not yours but that which resides in Christ. Do we fully understand what it means to say that Christ is there, whether good times or bad? The hard truth may be that you will come down from mountaintop experiences, but the wonderful truth of God is that, no matter where you are, you can remain in Christ. No matter how dark the valley seems, the light of Christ can be with you. You can draw near to the warmth of His light, draw near to Him, and draw from His perfect peace, and endless joy. Seek Him out and draw near to Him. Learn from Him what it means to remain in Him. Spend adequate time with Him each day, and you will have all that you need.
John 15:4, NIV: Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
Regardless of where you are, Christ is there. When you are atop the mountain praising God and walking in the warmth of His love, He is there. When you are walking through the valley of the shadows, He is there. You may be saying, “Yes, I know that, but…” one thing or another has stolen your joy or your peace. And yet, the joy and peace you need is not yours but that which resides in Christ. Do we fully understand what it means to say that Christ is there, whether good times or bad? The hard truth may be that you will come down from mountaintop experiences, but the wonderful truth of God is that, no matter where you are, you can remain in Christ. No matter how dark the valley seems, the light of Christ can be with you. You can draw near to the warmth of His light, draw near to Him, and draw from His perfect peace, and endless joy. Seek Him out and draw near to Him. Learn from Him what it means to remain in Him. Spend adequate time with Him each day, and you will have all that you need.
Voilence Against Transgender People Getting Worse
From the Edge in Boston, MA:
The latest, and most reliable, statistics on anti-LGBT violence reveal that it is still a major factor facing the transgender community.
According to a 2008 report from the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP), anti-transgender bias is reported crimes is holding steady, in fact, it has increased 12 percent over the previous year.
The murder rate for LGBT Americans as a whole stands at the highest it has been since 1999. There were 29 related such murders reported last year.
When asked why the rate of violence has continued to surge, Sharon Stapel, NCAVP executive director, complained, "We have set up a culture that explicitly sanctions violence against LGBT people. When we have a federal government that says it’s OK to discriminate against people because of sexual orientation or gender identity, we shouldn’t be surprised when violence occurs because there is no protection against it."
Stapel is referring to the fact that the U.S. does not currently offer federal protections against hate crime violence for LGBT people.
As it stands, 32 states include sexual orientation in their hate crime legislation. But only 11 protect gender identity.
Legislation aiming to extend hate crime protection to all LGBT people, called the "Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act," passed through the U.S. Senate earlier this year but has languished in the House.
Violence toward the transgender community, however, is far from being only an American problem.
A report by Transgender Europe estimated that nearly 200 trangender people have been murdered between January 2008 and June 2009. The American numbers rank second only to Brazil, where over 80 transgender individuals have been killed in that timespan.
Those numbers--both outside and inside the United States--very likely underestimate the problem.
Click here to read more analysis of this disturbing situation in the Edge's story.
The latest, and most reliable, statistics on anti-LGBT violence reveal that it is still a major factor facing the transgender community.
According to a 2008 report from the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP), anti-transgender bias is reported crimes is holding steady, in fact, it has increased 12 percent over the previous year.
The murder rate for LGBT Americans as a whole stands at the highest it has been since 1999. There were 29 related such murders reported last year.
When asked why the rate of violence has continued to surge, Sharon Stapel, NCAVP executive director, complained, "We have set up a culture that explicitly sanctions violence against LGBT people. When we have a federal government that says it’s OK to discriminate against people because of sexual orientation or gender identity, we shouldn’t be surprised when violence occurs because there is no protection against it."
Stapel is referring to the fact that the U.S. does not currently offer federal protections against hate crime violence for LGBT people.
As it stands, 32 states include sexual orientation in their hate crime legislation. But only 11 protect gender identity.
Legislation aiming to extend hate crime protection to all LGBT people, called the "Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act," passed through the U.S. Senate earlier this year but has languished in the House.
Violence toward the transgender community, however, is far from being only an American problem.
A report by Transgender Europe estimated that nearly 200 trangender people have been murdered between January 2008 and June 2009. The American numbers rank second only to Brazil, where over 80 transgender individuals have been killed in that timespan.
Those numbers--both outside and inside the United States--very likely underestimate the problem.
Click here to read more analysis of this disturbing situation in the Edge's story.
October 05, 2009
LGBT Helping Hands 10/5/09-Indiana Youth Group
Founded in 1987 as a response to the needs of self-identified Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender or Questioning youth, Indiana Youth Group held its first meeting in the living room of founders, Chris Gonzales and Jeff Werner with support from Pat Jordan. It was a mere five years after those meager beginnings that IYG was named a Special Project of National Significance for its programs protecting the mental and physical health of Indiana's LGBT youth. IYG now proudly operates a drop in and program facility donated by the Health Foundation of Greater Indianapolis, which was renovated and maintained by community supporters.
IYG programs focus on 5 primary areas: Education and career development, character and leadership development, personal development, social development, and information and referral. Our successes have been honored by numerous local and national groups including: the City of Indianapolis recognition for "contributions toward the betterment of the community", the Indiana State Department of Health, and Youth as Resources. IYG has also been featured on numerous national outlets including ABC's 20/20, In the Life (PBS), and Rolling Stone magazine.
From the beginning, IYG set out to improve the lives of youth using research-based and "best practice" programs. These include weekly support meetings helping those dealing with coming out, either to themselves or to their families and friends. Speakers from diverse fields encourage youth members to explore a variety of educational and vocational experiences, as well as educate members on risk behaviors and positive decision-making skills. Program topics range from domestic violence, substance abuse and suicide prevention to arts & crafts, and dating skills. Overall the goal is a fun program that offers a message and an enjoyable social opportunity for all youth.
Click here to find out more.
IYG programs focus on 5 primary areas: Education and career development, character and leadership development, personal development, social development, and information and referral. Our successes have been honored by numerous local and national groups including: the City of Indianapolis recognition for "contributions toward the betterment of the community", the Indiana State Department of Health, and Youth as Resources. IYG has also been featured on numerous national outlets including ABC's 20/20, In the Life (PBS), and Rolling Stone magazine.
From the beginning, IYG set out to improve the lives of youth using research-based and "best practice" programs. These include weekly support meetings helping those dealing with coming out, either to themselves or to their families and friends. Speakers from diverse fields encourage youth members to explore a variety of educational and vocational experiences, as well as educate members on risk behaviors and positive decision-making skills. Program topics range from domestic violence, substance abuse and suicide prevention to arts & crafts, and dating skills. Overall the goal is a fun program that offers a message and an enjoyable social opportunity for all youth.
Click here to find out more.
Encouraging Words 10/5/09-BCF Praise Report
GOD IS ON OUR SIDE! HE LOVES US SOOOO MUCH! AND HE HAS A PLAN THAT HE IS FULFILLING EVEN NOW!!! What an awesome revelation that will change your whole outlook on your life and ministry calling if you will only BELIEVE! Remember that Jesus said to Mary & Martha regarding Lazarus' death and resurrection, "Didn't I say unto you that you WOULD SEE the glory of God if you would only believe!?!"
I know that I added the emphasis and exclamations, but don't you know that Jesus was CONFIDENT in what He was saying! And isn't it true that they DID SEE the glory of God when Lazarus came out of that tomb of death and despair! TODAY I am praying that all of us will come up higher in our passion for the Lord Jesus, and to step into the realm where nothing is impossible for us because nothing is impossible with our God!
We had a fantastic worship service yesterday at BCF. We are so humbled and overwhelmed at the intensity of the presence of the Lord and how the Holy Spirit IS leading and directing our services! Our hearts are growing in a firy expectation for an indescribable outpouring of GLORY at our upcoming Fall Renewal, and we are preparing our lives, our hearts, our abilities to be fully ready to serve as He leads. Our sermon title was called "The Intentional Christian" and the Lord admonished us to prioritize our walk and relationship with the Lord Jesus MORE THAN EVER- to be full of purpose and INTENTIONALLY LIVE FOR CHRIST! I hope that you will go check out the podcast. We had some more glitches with our ustream and unfortunately it did not record online- but you can still listen to the podcast. I hope that you will, it will bless you and speak to you, I know because it did us!! :-)
I want to express our deepest gratitude to Pastor Doug Sewell, All Saints Community Church in Ohio, who drove all the way to DC this past weekend to do some leadership training/activation of spiritual gifts in our leadership.
He did an awesome job teaching us, and we ALL received! It's so exciting to see people hear the Word, believe it, then ACT on it- and then SEE God move! Wow, what an exciting life- living with Jesus! It only keeps getting better!
We love you and we are praying for each of you- today and everyday! You matter to us- and for that matter- truth be told- WE ALL MATTER TO ONE ANOTHER!!! We WANT you to succeed in your ministry calling and life. Isn't it wonderful to be a part of the Family of God, and to know that you are loved and deeply cared about? We will always do our best to love and support each other, to help one another, to encourage each other. Keep on praying and getting close to Jesus, keep on praising God- it opens the door into His presence, and STAY IN THE WORD!!! Keep your spiritual tank filled to overflowing so that you have something to give out to others.
God has a DIVINE APPOINTMENT for YOU- to share your faith and the love of Jesus Christ with someone today and this week! So be ready, be open, be watchful- and be BOLD!
SHALOM- GOD BLESS YOU!
Ap Dale
I know that I added the emphasis and exclamations, but don't you know that Jesus was CONFIDENT in what He was saying! And isn't it true that they DID SEE the glory of God when Lazarus came out of that tomb of death and despair! TODAY I am praying that all of us will come up higher in our passion for the Lord Jesus, and to step into the realm where nothing is impossible for us because nothing is impossible with our God!
We had a fantastic worship service yesterday at BCF. We are so humbled and overwhelmed at the intensity of the presence of the Lord and how the Holy Spirit IS leading and directing our services! Our hearts are growing in a firy expectation for an indescribable outpouring of GLORY at our upcoming Fall Renewal, and we are preparing our lives, our hearts, our abilities to be fully ready to serve as He leads. Our sermon title was called "The Intentional Christian" and the Lord admonished us to prioritize our walk and relationship with the Lord Jesus MORE THAN EVER- to be full of purpose and INTENTIONALLY LIVE FOR CHRIST! I hope that you will go check out the podcast. We had some more glitches with our ustream and unfortunately it did not record online- but you can still listen to the podcast. I hope that you will, it will bless you and speak to you, I know because it did us!! :-)
I want to express our deepest gratitude to Pastor Doug Sewell, All Saints Community Church in Ohio, who drove all the way to DC this past weekend to do some leadership training/activation of spiritual gifts in our leadership.
He did an awesome job teaching us, and we ALL received! It's so exciting to see people hear the Word, believe it, then ACT on it- and then SEE God move! Wow, what an exciting life- living with Jesus! It only keeps getting better!
We love you and we are praying for each of you- today and everyday! You matter to us- and for that matter- truth be told- WE ALL MATTER TO ONE ANOTHER!!! We WANT you to succeed in your ministry calling and life. Isn't it wonderful to be a part of the Family of God, and to know that you are loved and deeply cared about? We will always do our best to love and support each other, to help one another, to encourage each other. Keep on praying and getting close to Jesus, keep on praising God- it opens the door into His presence, and STAY IN THE WORD!!! Keep your spiritual tank filled to overflowing so that you have something to give out to others.
God has a DIVINE APPOINTMENT for YOU- to share your faith and the love of Jesus Christ with someone today and this week! So be ready, be open, be watchful- and be BOLD!
SHALOM- GOD BLESS YOU!
Ap Dale
SNN Recommends 10/5/09-Southern Voice (Atlanta, GA)
No one knows gay Atlanta better. And there’s no smarter way to build your business than through the pages of Southern Voice. With more than 100,000 weekly readers, we’re the region’s most respected and most read gay and lesbian newspaper.
Since 1988, Southern Voice has delivered unparalleled local and national news coverage, hard-hitting editorials and provocative op-ed pages. Factor in our comprehensive lifestyle coverage, with thorough guides to theatre, dining, nightlife and local arts and entertainment, and it’s no wonder more men and women pick us up every week.
Averaging more than 64 pages per issue and distributed at more than 600 locations throughout the metropolitan area, Southern Voice is the authoritative gay news source for Atlanta and the entire Southeast. From Downtown to Midtown, Buckhead to Smyrna and Decatur, and everywhere in between, we’ve got you covered.
Click here to check them out.
Since 1988, Southern Voice has delivered unparalleled local and national news coverage, hard-hitting editorials and provocative op-ed pages. Factor in our comprehensive lifestyle coverage, with thorough guides to theatre, dining, nightlife and local arts and entertainment, and it’s no wonder more men and women pick us up every week.
Averaging more than 64 pages per issue and distributed at more than 600 locations throughout the metropolitan area, Southern Voice is the authoritative gay news source for Atlanta and the entire Southeast. From Downtown to Midtown, Buckhead to Smyrna and Decatur, and everywhere in between, we’ve got you covered.
Click here to check them out.
Matthew 25 Resource 10/5/09: Hunters for the Hungry (Virginia)
Regardless of how you feel about hunting, it's good to see it being used for its most basic purpose--to provide food for the hungry.
.Hunters for the Hungry operates by solicitation of successful hunters to donate venison. The deer are accepted by professional meat cutters who process (cut, wrap, and freeze) the venison. The meat is provided at no cost and is distributed by foodbanks and other 501 (C) (3) nonprofit organizations feeding Virginia's needy. We are not supported by any state funds nor are we a United Way Agency.
...Funds are raised to cover the cost of processing, distribution, and the overhead expenses of operation (less than 20% of total expenses). Financial support is currently the limiting factor.
...The simplicity of the program makes it not only easy to understand but also practical to operate. Hunters, all volunteers, do the work of providing the food. Processors inspect, cut, wrap, and freeze the meat (most charge us a fee reduced from normal rates). The venison is distributed through agencies already equipped for and in the business of feeding the needy. The food provided is a quality high protein, low-fat item not normally available.
.We have a proven track record. We have received and distributed over 3 million pounds of venison to the needy across Virginia. The potential exists to provide almost this quantity on an annual basis.
...Our long term goal is to make 500,000 pounds of venison available to the hungry annually. We already have in place the needed program to receive and distribute this quantity. As funds are available more meat will be accepted and distributed.
Click here to find out more.
.Hunters for the Hungry operates by solicitation of successful hunters to donate venison. The deer are accepted by professional meat cutters who process (cut, wrap, and freeze) the venison. The meat is provided at no cost and is distributed by foodbanks and other 501 (C) (3) nonprofit organizations feeding Virginia's needy. We are not supported by any state funds nor are we a United Way Agency.
...Funds are raised to cover the cost of processing, distribution, and the overhead expenses of operation (less than 20% of total expenses). Financial support is currently the limiting factor.
...The simplicity of the program makes it not only easy to understand but also practical to operate. Hunters, all volunteers, do the work of providing the food. Processors inspect, cut, wrap, and freeze the meat (most charge us a fee reduced from normal rates). The venison is distributed through agencies already equipped for and in the business of feeding the needy. The food provided is a quality high protein, low-fat item not normally available.
.We have a proven track record. We have received and distributed over 3 million pounds of venison to the needy across Virginia. The potential exists to provide almost this quantity on an annual basis.
...Our long term goal is to make 500,000 pounds of venison available to the hungry annually. We already have in place the needed program to receive and distribute this quantity. As funds are available more meat will be accepted and distributed.
Click here to find out more.
Obama Official-ENDA Should Be Top Priority
From the Washington Blade:
The highest-ranking openly gay appointee in the Obama administration is encouraging LGBT Americans to make passing the Employment Non-Discrimination Act their No. 1 priority and said its success would place within reach other civil rights goals.
John Berry, director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, called for greater focus on ENDA on Saturday following his keynote address at Out for Work's national convention at the Westin City Center Hotel in D.C.
Berry advocated for the importance of ENDA — and identified repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and the Defense of Marriage Act as other priorities — in response to an audience member's question about possible legislative issues on the horizon and criticism that President Obama isn't moving quickly enough on LGBT issues.
"The most important thing we can do right now is we got to … secure the passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act — and it's got to include full transgender protections," Berry said. "I believe that if we all concentrate our efforts where it needs to be concentrated, which is on the House of Representatives and the United States Senate, we can get the job done."
Other pro-LGBT legislation can be more easily achieved, Berry said, if Congress were to pass ENDA.
"If we can get ENDA enacted and signed into law, it is only a matter of time before all the rest happens," he said. "It is the keystone that holds up the whole bunch, and so we need to focus our energies and attention there."
That seems like a very well reason approach to us. What do you think?
Click here to read the rest of the story
The highest-ranking openly gay appointee in the Obama administration is encouraging LGBT Americans to make passing the Employment Non-Discrimination Act their No. 1 priority and said its success would place within reach other civil rights goals.
John Berry, director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, called for greater focus on ENDA on Saturday following his keynote address at Out for Work's national convention at the Westin City Center Hotel in D.C.
Berry advocated for the importance of ENDA — and identified repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and the Defense of Marriage Act as other priorities — in response to an audience member's question about possible legislative issues on the horizon and criticism that President Obama isn't moving quickly enough on LGBT issues.
"The most important thing we can do right now is we got to … secure the passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act — and it's got to include full transgender protections," Berry said. "I believe that if we all concentrate our efforts where it needs to be concentrated, which is on the House of Representatives and the United States Senate, we can get the job done."
Other pro-LGBT legislation can be more easily achieved, Berry said, if Congress were to pass ENDA.
"If we can get ENDA enacted and signed into law, it is only a matter of time before all the rest happens," he said. "It is the keystone that holds up the whole bunch, and so we need to focus our energies and attention there."
That seems like a very well reason approach to us. What do you think?
Click here to read the rest of the story
Daily Devotional 10/5/09 "Spiritual Tenacity"
From: My Utmost for His Highest
Be still, and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10
Tenacity is more than endurance, it is endurance combined with the absolute certainty that what we are looking for is going to transpire. Tenacity is more than hanging on, which may be but the weakness of being too afraid to fall off. Tenacity is the supreme effort of a man refusing to believe that his hero is going to be conquered. The greatest fear a man has is not that he will be damned, but that Jesus Christ will be worsted, that the things He stood for - love and justice and forgiveness and kindness among men - will not win out in the end; the things He stands for look like will-o'-the-wisps. Then comes the call to spiritual tenacity, not to hang on and do nothing, but to work deliberately on the certainty that God is not going to be worsted.
If our hopes are being disappointed just now, it means that they are being purified. There is nothing noble the human mind has ever hoped for or dreamed of that will not be fulfilled. One of the greatest strains in life is the strain of waiting for God. "Because thou hast kept the word of my patience." Remain spiritually tenacious.
Be still, and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10
Tenacity is more than endurance, it is endurance combined with the absolute certainty that what we are looking for is going to transpire. Tenacity is more than hanging on, which may be but the weakness of being too afraid to fall off. Tenacity is the supreme effort of a man refusing to believe that his hero is going to be conquered. The greatest fear a man has is not that he will be damned, but that Jesus Christ will be worsted, that the things He stood for - love and justice and forgiveness and kindness among men - will not win out in the end; the things He stands for look like will-o'-the-wisps. Then comes the call to spiritual tenacity, not to hang on and do nothing, but to work deliberately on the certainty that God is not going to be worsted.
If our hopes are being disappointed just now, it means that they are being purified. There is nothing noble the human mind has ever hoped for or dreamed of that will not be fulfilled. One of the greatest strains in life is the strain of waiting for God. "Because thou hast kept the word of my patience." Remain spiritually tenacious.
October 04, 2009
LGBT Helping Hands 10/4/09-Gay Men's Domenstic Violence Project
The Gay Men’s Domestic Violence Project is a grassroots, non-profit organization founded by a gay male survivor of domestic violence and developed through the strength, contributions and participation of the community.
Misson Statement:
The Gay Men’s Domestic Violence Project supports victims and survivors through education, advocacy and direct services. Understanding that the serious public health issue of domestic violence is not gender specific, we serve men in relationships with men, regardless of how they identify, and stand ready to assist them in navigating through abusive relationships.
Click here to find out more.
Misson Statement:
The Gay Men’s Domestic Violence Project supports victims and survivors through education, advocacy and direct services. Understanding that the serious public health issue of domestic violence is not gender specific, we serve men in relationships with men, regardless of how they identify, and stand ready to assist them in navigating through abusive relationships.
Click here to find out more.
SNN Recommends 10/4/09-"Faith & Doubt" by John Ortberg
If you think your faith is weak because you have doubts, we highly recommend this book.
Amazon customer ranking: 11 of 16 gave it 5 of 5 stars
SNN ranking: 4.5 stars
We often think of doubt as the opposite of faith, but could it actually strengthen our relationship with God? According to John Ortberg, best-selling author and pastor, the very nature of faith requires the presence of uncertainty. In this refreshingly candid look at a life of faith, he traces the line between belief and unbelief: less a dividing line between hostile camps than a razor’s edge that runs through every soul. His findings point us toward the relief of being totally honest. Questions can expand our understanding, uncertainty can lead to trust, and honest faith can produce outrageous hope. Written from Ortberg’s own struggle with faith and doubt, this book will challenge, comfort, and inspire you with the truth that God wants all of us—including our doubts.
Click here to purchase the book and read the customer reviews.
Amazon customer ranking: 11 of 16 gave it 5 of 5 stars
SNN ranking: 4.5 stars
We often think of doubt as the opposite of faith, but could it actually strengthen our relationship with God? According to John Ortberg, best-selling author and pastor, the very nature of faith requires the presence of uncertainty. In this refreshingly candid look at a life of faith, he traces the line between belief and unbelief: less a dividing line between hostile camps than a razor’s edge that runs through every soul. His findings point us toward the relief of being totally honest. Questions can expand our understanding, uncertainty can lead to trust, and honest faith can produce outrageous hope. Written from Ortberg’s own struggle with faith and doubt, this book will challenge, comfort, and inspire you with the truth that God wants all of us—including our doubts.
Click here to purchase the book and read the customer reviews.
Matthew 25 Resource 10/4/09-The Coalition for the Homeless Mentall Ill (Atlanta, GA)
We are . . . . anyone who has an interest in helping homeless men, women, and children in Atlanta who have a mental illness.
We are outreach helpers, shelter supervisors, mental health care managers, adult protective service workers, agency directors, legal aid staff, government employees, to mention just a few. We are mostly just ordinary citizens who believe we can, small as we are, make a difference in the lives of individuals with a mental illness. Some of us attend the CHMI monthly meetings regularly, some from time to time, some never, but support our mission and goals.
We are an open forum where everyone is welcome at any level of participation they wish and where we can discuss any issue, even disagree amicably without alienating anyone.
We seek to be strong advocates on important issues that affect the homeless mentally ill in metro Atlanta
Whenever possible we seek support and give support to other mental health advocates and service providers on issues of mutual importance.
We work diligently to complement, not duplicate, what others are doing . . . . always in a constructive manner.
We identify gaps and offer proposals for improvement in services to homeless people with a mental illness to the responsible agencies. In doing so we give other key agencies involved in providing mental health services an opportunity for comment and hopefully gain their support.
Click here to find out more.
We are outreach helpers, shelter supervisors, mental health care managers, adult protective service workers, agency directors, legal aid staff, government employees, to mention just a few. We are mostly just ordinary citizens who believe we can, small as we are, make a difference in the lives of individuals with a mental illness. Some of us attend the CHMI monthly meetings regularly, some from time to time, some never, but support our mission and goals.
We are an open forum where everyone is welcome at any level of participation they wish and where we can discuss any issue, even disagree amicably without alienating anyone.
We seek to be strong advocates on important issues that affect the homeless mentally ill in metro Atlanta
Whenever possible we seek support and give support to other mental health advocates and service providers on issues of mutual importance.
We work diligently to complement, not duplicate, what others are doing . . . . always in a constructive manner.
We identify gaps and offer proposals for improvement in services to homeless people with a mental illness to the responsible agencies. In doing so we give other key agencies involved in providing mental health services an opportunity for comment and hopefully gain their support.
Click here to find out more.
Welcome to Sunday Worship 10/4/09
If you don't have a welcoming church near you, or you just can't make yourself step into one, we're bringing worship to you. Here are links to some worship music and services from open and affirming ministries (all times eastern). I hope you are blessed and take time out of your busy schedule to enter into the Lord's day.
Don't forget to click on the tab on the upper right of this blog and leave your prayer requests in the comment section so we can petition the Lord for your needs.
If you know of a service we should add to our list, please send an e-mail and share it with us.
Live Sunday Services (all times Eastern)
VIDEO
MI-Renaissance Unity Church, Warren, 10:00 AM
FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa, 11:00 AM
VA-Believers Covenant Fellowship, Vienna, 11:00 AM
AL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham, 11:45 AM
NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem, 12:00 PM
OK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa, 1:00 PM
CA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach, 1:00 PM
WA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore, 1:30 PM
AUDIO
Canada, Vancouver-Christ Alive Community Church, 10:15 PM
FL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program) 4:30 PM
Video Archive
AL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham
CA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach
FL-Church of the Holy SpiritSong, Ft. Lauderdale
FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa
GA-Gentle Spirit Christian Church, Atlanta
GA-New Covenant Church of Atlanta
MI-Christ Community Church, Spring Lake
MI-Renaissance Unity Church, Warren
NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem
OK-Expressions Community Fellowship, Oklahoma City
OK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa
TX-The One Church, Garland
WA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore
Audio Archive
AZ-Community Church of Hope, Phoenix
AK-Open Door Community Church, Sherwood
CA-Christ Chapel of Long Beach
CA-Christ Chapel of the Valley, North Hollywood
FL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program)
FL-New Hope Christian Center, Pensecola
GA-New Covenant Church of Atlanta
MD-Kittamaqundi Community, Columbia
NC-Revolution Charlotte
OH-Emmanuel Fellowship Church, Akron
OH-All Saints Community Church, Cortland
TN-Covenant of the Cross-Madison
TX-New Hope Fellowship Church-Dallas
TX-White Rock Community Church-Dallas
TX-Community Gospel Church-Houston
TX-Through Him Fellowship-Houston
South Africa-Deo Gloria Family Church
Can we pray for you? E-mail straight_notnarrow@yahoo.com
Don't forget to click on the tab on the upper right of this blog and leave your prayer requests in the comment section so we can petition the Lord for your needs.
If you know of a service we should add to our list, please send an e-mail and share it with us.
Live Sunday Services (all times Eastern)
VIDEO
MI-Renaissance Unity Church, Warren, 10:00 AM
FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa, 11:00 AM
VA-Believers Covenant Fellowship, Vienna, 11:00 AM
AL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham, 11:45 AM
NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem, 12:00 PM
OK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa, 1:00 PM
CA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach, 1:00 PM
WA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore, 1:30 PM
AUDIO
Canada, Vancouver-Christ Alive Community Church, 10:15 PM
FL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program) 4:30 PM
Video Archive
AL-Covenant Community Church, Birmingham
CA-Glory Tabernacle Christian Center, Long Beach
FL-Church of the Holy SpiritSong, Ft. Lauderdale
FL-Potters House International Fellowship, Tampa
GA-Gentle Spirit Christian Church, Atlanta
GA-New Covenant Church of Atlanta
MI-Christ Community Church, Spring Lake
MI-Renaissance Unity Church, Warren
NC-Church of the Holy Spirit Fellowship, Winston-Salem
OK-Expressions Community Fellowship, Oklahoma City
OK-Diversity Christian Fellowship International, Tulsa
TX-The One Church, Garland
WA-Living Water Fellowship, Kenmore
Audio Archive
AZ-Community Church of Hope, Phoenix
AK-Open Door Community Church, Sherwood
CA-Christ Chapel of Long Beach
CA-Christ Chapel of the Valley, North Hollywood
FL-Beacon of Hope Ministries, Dunedin (Living the Good Life radio program)
FL-New Hope Christian Center, Pensecola
GA-New Covenant Church of Atlanta
MD-Kittamaqundi Community, Columbia
NC-Revolution Charlotte
OH-Emmanuel Fellowship Church, Akron
OH-All Saints Community Church, Cortland
TN-Covenant of the Cross-Madison
TX-New Hope Fellowship Church-Dallas
TX-White Rock Community Church-Dallas
TX-Community Gospel Church-Houston
TX-Through Him Fellowship-Houston
South Africa-Deo Gloria Family Church
Can we pray for you? E-mail straight_notnarrow@yahoo.com
October 03, 2009
LGBT Helping Hands 10/3/09-A Loving Spoonful (Vancouver, BC, Canada)
A Loving Spoonful is a volunteer-driven, non-partisan Society that provides free, nutritious meals to people living with HIV/AIDS in Greater Vancouver.
Every week, all year round for over 19 years, our volunteers deliver approximately 1200 frozen meals and over 250 snack packs to men, women and children who are primarily homebound with AIDS. Our average meal cost is only $3.55. A Loving Spoonful is the constant support of over 250 adults and children living with HIV/AIDS throughout the Greater Vancouver area.
Our History
A Loving Spoonful started in 1989, sprung from nothing more than Easter Armas’s determination that no one living with AIDS should live with hunger. She saw an acquaintance of hers, a brilliant lawyer who had lost his job because he was HIV-positive, eating from a dumpster. She was devastated. November 19, 1989 marked the first of many Easter’s Sundays, monthly dinners held at McLaren House for people living with HIV/AIDS. Each meal was lovingly prepared by volunteers, and there was often entertainment. Easter’s Sundays aimed to diminish the isolation felt by people with AIDS by providing food, community, and comfort. From the determination of one woman and her tireless friends, the Vancouver Meals Society was born. It was the first meal program in Canada to provide free meals for people living with HIV/AIDS. They had five clients.
In 1994, the Vancouver Meals Society was re-named A Loving Spoonful. Our clients now include more than 250 adults and children in Greater Vancouver.
Our Mission
Our mission is to make sure that no one living with AIDS lives with hunger. Achieving our mission requires the loving, coordinated effort of a community of volunteers, staff, donors and supporters. It is through this dedicated support that A Loving Spoonful has been able to provide our services free of charge for almost twenty years.
Click here to find out more.
Every week, all year round for over 19 years, our volunteers deliver approximately 1200 frozen meals and over 250 snack packs to men, women and children who are primarily homebound with AIDS. Our average meal cost is only $3.55. A Loving Spoonful is the constant support of over 250 adults and children living with HIV/AIDS throughout the Greater Vancouver area.
Our History
A Loving Spoonful started in 1989, sprung from nothing more than Easter Armas’s determination that no one living with AIDS should live with hunger. She saw an acquaintance of hers, a brilliant lawyer who had lost his job because he was HIV-positive, eating from a dumpster. She was devastated. November 19, 1989 marked the first of many Easter’s Sundays, monthly dinners held at McLaren House for people living with HIV/AIDS. Each meal was lovingly prepared by volunteers, and there was often entertainment. Easter’s Sundays aimed to diminish the isolation felt by people with AIDS by providing food, community, and comfort. From the determination of one woman and her tireless friends, the Vancouver Meals Society was born. It was the first meal program in Canada to provide free meals for people living with HIV/AIDS. They had five clients.
In 1994, the Vancouver Meals Society was re-named A Loving Spoonful. Our clients now include more than 250 adults and children in Greater Vancouver.
Our Mission
Our mission is to make sure that no one living with AIDS lives with hunger. Achieving our mission requires the loving, coordinated effort of a community of volunteers, staff, donors and supporters. It is through this dedicated support that A Loving Spoonful has been able to provide our services free of charge for almost twenty years.
Click here to find out more.
Encouraging Words 10/2/09-God Works Among Us
From the HRC's Out In Scripture series, scripture taken from the Common Lectionary:
27th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Proper 22), Year B
God comes to us in our flesh — on our terms — to draw us into right relation with one another and all of creation.
This week's lectionary Bible passages: Job 1:1, 2:1-10 and Psalm 26 or Genesis 2:18-24 and Psalm 8; Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-12; Mark 10:2-16
Click here to read this week's commentary and questions for meditation/discussion.
27th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Proper 22), Year B
God comes to us in our flesh — on our terms — to draw us into right relation with one another and all of creation.
This week's lectionary Bible passages: Job 1:1, 2:1-10 and Psalm 26 or Genesis 2:18-24 and Psalm 8; Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-12; Mark 10:2-16
Click here to read this week's commentary and questions for meditation/discussion.
SNN Recommends 10/3/09-All Saints Community Church, Cortland, OH
All Saints recently voted in our good friend, the Rev. Doug Sewell, as Senior Pastor, removing the interim tag. We know firsthand that you will receive a blessing when you hear him deliver a message or just get the chance to spend time with him.
From the All Saints website:
We are an affirming Christian fellowship, welcoming all to worship with us regardless of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, socioeconomic status, or spiritual background.
We offer the unconditional love of Jesus to all who enter.
We recognize that all of God's children are special, wonderful, and unique.
We use our God-given gifts to promote Christ's love and justice to and for the world.
We believe the salvation of Christ is given to ALL who accept Him as their personal Lord and Savior. We will introduce Christ to all who seek Him.
We offer the Sacraments of Baptism, Anointing, Marriage, and Holy Union to all official members. We offer the sacrament of Eucharist to all of the community of believers.
We celebrate the Eucharist each time we gather for Sunday worship.
Click here to find out more.
From the All Saints website:
We are an affirming Christian fellowship, welcoming all to worship with us regardless of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, socioeconomic status, or spiritual background.
We offer the unconditional love of Jesus to all who enter.
We recognize that all of God's children are special, wonderful, and unique.
We use our God-given gifts to promote Christ's love and justice to and for the world.
We believe the salvation of Christ is given to ALL who accept Him as their personal Lord and Savior. We will introduce Christ to all who seek Him.
We offer the Sacraments of Baptism, Anointing, Marriage, and Holy Union to all official members. We offer the sacrament of Eucharist to all of the community of believers.
We celebrate the Eucharist each time we gather for Sunday worship.
Click here to find out more.
Matthew 25 Resource 10/2/09-WISH Drop-In Society (Vancouver, BC, Canada)
Operated by women for the exclusive use of female survival sex workers, the WISH Drop-In Centre Society is a registered non-profit society that furnishes a variety of services within a nurturing and non-judgemental environment.
In addition to meeting essential needs by serving nutritious, hot meals, providing showering facilities, dispensing make-up, hygiene items, and clothing, WISH offers on-site nursing care, referrals to detoxification centres, rehabilitation houses, and shelters for upwards of 150 women per night. Our programs, including Literacy and a Learning Centre have been hugely successful in providing opportunities to participants to consider alternatives to their present high-risk lifestyles.
Guided by a 15 member volunteer Board of Directors, a cadre of dedicated volunteers, and a committed staff, WISH's underlying philosophy is one of recognizing the innate dignity of every woman and affording her the respect she inherently deserves. We seek to build self-esteem through unconditional acceptance, friendship, empathy, compassion, and humour.
Click here to find out more.
In addition to meeting essential needs by serving nutritious, hot meals, providing showering facilities, dispensing make-up, hygiene items, and clothing, WISH offers on-site nursing care, referrals to detoxification centres, rehabilitation houses, and shelters for upwards of 150 women per night. Our programs, including Literacy and a Learning Centre have been hugely successful in providing opportunities to participants to consider alternatives to their present high-risk lifestyles.
Guided by a 15 member volunteer Board of Directors, a cadre of dedicated volunteers, and a committed staff, WISH's underlying philosophy is one of recognizing the innate dignity of every woman and affording her the respect she inherently deserves. We seek to build self-esteem through unconditional acceptance, friendship, empathy, compassion, and humour.
Click here to find out more.
SNN Helping Hands 10/4/09-Gay Men Fight AIDS (New Hampshire)
We are Gay Men Fight AIDS (GMFA), an all-volunteer, non-profit organization that seeks to prevent new HIV infections and reinfections among negative and positive gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. GMFA serves the greater Portsmouth area in New Hampshire and nearby Maine and Massachusetts. GMFA's primary vehicle to achieve this are the sessions that comprise a LifeGuards workshop.
We acknowledge, honor, and respect the diversity of our community: gay, bisexual, transgender, or simply "Men Who Have Sex With Men." Regardless of race, ethnicity, age, or how we choose to identify ourselves, we all have the right to receive HIV prevention education.
Our mission is:
To prevent new HIV infections and reinfections among negative and positive gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM)
To organize a strong community response to all the challenges we face until the pandemic is over
To mobilize as many men in our community as possible to support each other to stay safe and enjoy healthy sex lives
To eliminate the myths and stereotypes about HIV/AIDS
We acknowledge, honor, and respect the diversity of our community: gay, bisexual, transgender, or simply "Men Who Have Sex With Men." Regardless of race, ethnicity, age or how we choose to identify ourselves, we all have the right to receive HIV prevention education.
Click here to find out more.
We acknowledge, honor, and respect the diversity of our community: gay, bisexual, transgender, or simply "Men Who Have Sex With Men." Regardless of race, ethnicity, age, or how we choose to identify ourselves, we all have the right to receive HIV prevention education.
Our mission is:
To prevent new HIV infections and reinfections among negative and positive gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM)
To organize a strong community response to all the challenges we face until the pandemic is over
To mobilize as many men in our community as possible to support each other to stay safe and enjoy healthy sex lives
To eliminate the myths and stereotypes about HIV/AIDS
We acknowledge, honor, and respect the diversity of our community: gay, bisexual, transgender, or simply "Men Who Have Sex With Men." Regardless of race, ethnicity, age or how we choose to identify ourselves, we all have the right to receive HIV prevention education.
Click here to find out more.
Dallas Judge Grants Gay Divorce--Is Gay Marriage on the Way in Texas?
More than likely, not anytime soon but this ruling could start that ball rolling. From the Dallas News (hat tip to Pam's House Blend):
In a first for Texas, a judge ruled Thursday that two men married in another state can divorce here and that the state's ban on gay marriage violates the U.S. Constitution.
Both a voter-approved state constitutional amendment and the Texas Family Code prohibit same-sex marriages or civil unions.
Although the case is far from settled, and the state's constitutional ban on gay marriage is a long way from being thrown out, Dallas state District Judge Tena Callahan's ruling says the state prohibition of same-sex marriage violates the federal constitutional right to equal protection.
Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott had intervened in the two men's divorce case, arguing that because a gay marriage isn't recognized in Texas, a Texas court can't dissolve one through divorce.
Callahan, a Democrat, denied the attorney general's intervention and said her court "has jurisdiction to hear a suit for divorce filed by persons legally married in another jurisdiction."
"This is huge news. We're ecstatic," said Dallas attorney Peter Schulte, who represents the man who filed the divorce. The man, identified in court documents as J.B., asked that he and his former partner not be identified.
Schulte said that the ruling was a surprise and that he hoped to have a divorce order for the judge to sign in the "next few weeks."
In a prepared statement, Abbott said he would appeal the ruling "to defend the traditional definition of marriage that was approved by Texas voters."
His statement also said, "The laws and constitution of the State of Texas define marriage as an institution involving one man and one woman. Today's ruling purports to strike down that constitutional definition – despite the fact that it was recently adopted by 75 percent of Texas voters."
Of course, if we left human rights up to a popular vote, slavery would likely have persisted much longer in the South and there could be areas even today where interracial marriage would still be illegal.
Fortunately we don't do that anymore, except apparently when it comes to LGBT people. That's one of the purposes of our courts, to protect us from the tyrany of the majority.
We'll be keeping a close eye on further developments in this case.
Click here to read the rest of the Dallas News story.
In a first for Texas, a judge ruled Thursday that two men married in another state can divorce here and that the state's ban on gay marriage violates the U.S. Constitution.
Both a voter-approved state constitutional amendment and the Texas Family Code prohibit same-sex marriages or civil unions.
Although the case is far from settled, and the state's constitutional ban on gay marriage is a long way from being thrown out, Dallas state District Judge Tena Callahan's ruling says the state prohibition of same-sex marriage violates the federal constitutional right to equal protection.
Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott had intervened in the two men's divorce case, arguing that because a gay marriage isn't recognized in Texas, a Texas court can't dissolve one through divorce.
Callahan, a Democrat, denied the attorney general's intervention and said her court "has jurisdiction to hear a suit for divorce filed by persons legally married in another jurisdiction."
"This is huge news. We're ecstatic," said Dallas attorney Peter Schulte, who represents the man who filed the divorce. The man, identified in court documents as J.B., asked that he and his former partner not be identified.
Schulte said that the ruling was a surprise and that he hoped to have a divorce order for the judge to sign in the "next few weeks."
In a prepared statement, Abbott said he would appeal the ruling "to defend the traditional definition of marriage that was approved by Texas voters."
His statement also said, "The laws and constitution of the State of Texas define marriage as an institution involving one man and one woman. Today's ruling purports to strike down that constitutional definition – despite the fact that it was recently adopted by 75 percent of Texas voters."
Of course, if we left human rights up to a popular vote, slavery would likely have persisted much longer in the South and there could be areas even today where interracial marriage would still be illegal.
Fortunately we don't do that anymore, except apparently when it comes to LGBT people. That's one of the purposes of our courts, to protect us from the tyrany of the majority.
We'll be keeping a close eye on further developments in this case.
Click here to read the rest of the Dallas News story.
Daily Devotional 10/3/09 "The Initiative Against Despair"
From: My Utmost for His Highest
Rise, let us be going. Matthew 26:46
The disciples went to sleep when they should have kept awake, and when they realized what they had done it produced despair. The sense of the irreparable is apt to make us despair, and we say - "It is all up now, it is no use trying any more." If we imagine that this kind of despair is exceptional, we are mistaken, it is a very ordinary human experience. Whenever we realize that we have not done that which we had a magnificent opportunity of doing, then we are apt to sink into despair; and Jesus Christ comes and says - "Sleep on now, that opportunity is lost for ever, you cannot alter it, but arise and go to the next thing." Let the past sleep, but let it sleep on the bosom of Christ, and go out into the irresistible future with Him.
There are experiences like this in each of our lives. We are in despair, the despair that comes from actualities, and we cannot lift ourselves out of it. The disciples in this instance had done a downright unforgivable thing; they had gone to sleep instead of watching with Jesus, but He came with a spiritual initiative against their despair and said - "Arise and do the next thing." If we are inspired of God, what is the next thing? To trust Him absolutely and to pray on the ground of His Redemption.
Never let the sense of failure corrupt your new action.
Rise, let us be going. Matthew 26:46
The disciples went to sleep when they should have kept awake, and when they realized what they had done it produced despair. The sense of the irreparable is apt to make us despair, and we say - "It is all up now, it is no use trying any more." If we imagine that this kind of despair is exceptional, we are mistaken, it is a very ordinary human experience. Whenever we realize that we have not done that which we had a magnificent opportunity of doing, then we are apt to sink into despair; and Jesus Christ comes and says - "Sleep on now, that opportunity is lost for ever, you cannot alter it, but arise and go to the next thing." Let the past sleep, but let it sleep on the bosom of Christ, and go out into the irresistible future with Him.
There are experiences like this in each of our lives. We are in despair, the despair that comes from actualities, and we cannot lift ourselves out of it. The disciples in this instance had done a downright unforgivable thing; they had gone to sleep instead of watching with Jesus, but He came with a spiritual initiative against their despair and said - "Arise and do the next thing." If we are inspired of God, what is the next thing? To trust Him absolutely and to pray on the ground of His Redemption.
Never let the sense of failure corrupt your new action.
October 02, 2009
LGBT Helping Hands 10/2/09-Iowa Safe Schools
words and harassment are things that gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) students deal with everyday in our schools and communities. Making schools a safe place for all children, particularly GLBT students, is difficult and an issue that many prefer would go away. Unfortunately, school administrators, teachers, school board members, other school personnel such as nurses, guidance counselors and social workers, as well as parents and students, are hampered by the lack of information and resources for teaching and meeting the educational needs of GLBT students.
The emergence of the GLBT Youth in Iowa Schools Task Force in April 2002 was critical in filling this information gap and in improving the safety and awareness of GLBT students in Iowa. The Task Force was initiated as a partnership with the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, and is a broad-based coalition, comprised of representatives from major statewide education organizations and leaders in the civil rights, gay/lesbian and business community.
The Task Force’s mission is to increase understanding in local school districts and communities about GLBT students, increase awareness and address the inequities regarding safety of GLBT students in Iowa, and improve school climate in order to increase the personal safety, mental health, and achievement levels of GLBT students. In our short existence, we have helped create safer schools for GLBT students.
Click here to find out more.
The emergence of the GLBT Youth in Iowa Schools Task Force in April 2002 was critical in filling this information gap and in improving the safety and awareness of GLBT students in Iowa. The Task Force was initiated as a partnership with the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, and is a broad-based coalition, comprised of representatives from major statewide education organizations and leaders in the civil rights, gay/lesbian and business community.
The Task Force’s mission is to increase understanding in local school districts and communities about GLBT students, increase awareness and address the inequities regarding safety of GLBT students in Iowa, and improve school climate in order to increase the personal safety, mental health, and achievement levels of GLBT students. In our short existence, we have helped create safer schools for GLBT students.
Click here to find out more.
Encouraging Words 10/2/09-"A Heart For Worship, Part 2"
Enjoy Part 2 of "A Heart For Worship", a sermon delivered by Pastor Tom Millner of the Church of the Holy SpiritSong in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.
SNN Recommends 10/2/09-(Just For Fun) Saturday Night Live
Whether it's the classics from the 1970's with Belushi and Akroyd or more recent clips like Tina Fey doing Sarah Palin, NBC's official Saturday Night Live website has a treasure trove of video clips for your enjoyment. A few of our favorites:
Steve Martin performing his hit "King Tut"
Eddie Murphy in "Mr. Robinson's Neighborhood
Wayne's World with guest appearances by Aerosmith and Tom Hanks
Here's the website so you can search for your own favorites. Enjoy!
Steve Martin performing his hit "King Tut"
Eddie Murphy in "Mr. Robinson's Neighborhood
Wayne's World with guest appearances by Aerosmith and Tom Hanks
Here's the website so you can search for your own favorites. Enjoy!
Matthew 25 Resource 10/2/09-Helping Hands, Monkey Helpers for the Disabled
Helping Hands: Monkey Helpers for the Disabled is a unique national non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that places specially trained capuchin monkeys with people who are paralyzed, or who suffer other severe mobility impairments. Helping Hands monkey helpers offer independence, hope, and connection to individuals with severe disabilities all across the country. No fee is charged to the recipients. All costs are underwritten by donations from individuals, foundation grants, and corporate partnerships.
As a service to the larger community, Helping Hands also conducts public education programs that teach young people how to avoid risky behaviors that can lead to spinal cord injury and how community service can be a powerful way to help others.
Helping Hands trained and placed the first monkey as a helper and a companion to a paralyzed individual in 1979. Since that time, Helping Hands' has developed programs to support the lifespan needs of the monkeys and their human partnerships.
Click here to find out more.
Click here to watch The Today Show's feature on this organization
As a service to the larger community, Helping Hands also conducts public education programs that teach young people how to avoid risky behaviors that can lead to spinal cord injury and how community service can be a powerful way to help others.
Helping Hands trained and placed the first monkey as a helper and a companion to a paralyzed individual in 1979. Since that time, Helping Hands' has developed programs to support the lifespan needs of the monkeys and their human partnerships.
Click here to find out more.
Click here to watch The Today Show's feature on this organization
Cuban Gays Have an Ally Named Castro
From the Advocate:
Mariela Castro EspÃn is a slender, pale, and elegant mother of three children. Married to an Italian photographer, she is straight, even though some Havana gossips have suggested otherwise. She also happens to be the 47-year-old daughter of President Raúl Castro, who last year officially succeeded his ailing brother, Fidel, as president of Cuba. As director of the government-run National Center for Sex Education, or CENESEX, Castro EspÃn has used her guile -- and her dynastic clout -- to push for gay rights in a country where hard-labor, “reeducation” camps were once vaunted as an antidote to homosexuality. “Homophobia in Cuba is part of what makes you a ‘man,’” she says. “It’s part of the masculine role. Boys are taught to have violent reactions so they can show their masculinity. Boys are destroyed in this country this way."
...these are not ordinary times, and Mariela Castro EspÃn is no ordinary president’s daughter. To the Havana police she’s the thorn in their side who shows up at the station on behalf of those arrested and detained on trumped-up loitering or prostitution charges. The transgender community knows her as the woman who turned her offices into a refuge for those who have been expelled from their homes, or worse. Wendy Diaz, a beautiful young trans woman who bears an uncanny resemblance to the pop star Shakira -- and who drew admiring glances from the men at the various tables around us when we met for drinks one evening on the terrace of the Hotel Nacional -- told me how Castro EspÃn once chased a boy for five blocks before collaring him for throwing rocks at “Mariela’s girls” outside the offices of CENESEX.
“I think Mariela’s leadership has been a key factor in the success of the work of CENESEX, and the prestige she carries because of her family name has only helped,” says Margaret Gilpin, a New York–based filmmaker whose award-winning 1996 documentary Butterflies on a Scaffold was the first to explore gay and drag culture in Cuba in the mid '90s. “Her presence, and the fact that [CENESEX] has focused its work on educating the general Cuban population on issues of concern to the LGBT community, to combating homophobia, and to trying to change laws and regulations to conform to current thinking on LGBT issues, has been critical to whatever success has been achieved so far.”
Under Castro EspÃn’s auspices, 2008 was a pivotal year for LGBT rights in the country. The government passed a resolution allowing transsexuals to undergo sex-reassignment surgeries free of charge. And Cuba stepped onto the stage of international gay rights discourse with its inaugural Day Against Homophobia, sanctioned at the highest levels of the Castro government and attended by thousands of ordinary gay and lesbian Cubans, as well as gay rights activists and government officials. The 2009 Day Against Homophobia numbers surpassed the attendance of the 2008 event, and organizers intend to make it an annual occurrence.
Castro EspÃn is also carefully but persistently lobbying on behalf of a bill to legalize same-sex civil unions that is proceeding slowly through parliament -- the term “gay marriage” being as problematic for Cubans as it is for many Americans. “Instead of just working with Cuban gays and lesbians so they could fit into the rest of society,” Castro EspÃn explains, “our strategy [at CENESEX] is to work with the population so that they could accept, and be educated on, sexual diversity. The people who have the problem are not gay people, but the general population.”
Click here to read the rest of the feature on a remarkable woman and LGBT ally.
Mariela Castro EspÃn is a slender, pale, and elegant mother of three children. Married to an Italian photographer, she is straight, even though some Havana gossips have suggested otherwise. She also happens to be the 47-year-old daughter of President Raúl Castro, who last year officially succeeded his ailing brother, Fidel, as president of Cuba. As director of the government-run National Center for Sex Education, or CENESEX, Castro EspÃn has used her guile -- and her dynastic clout -- to push for gay rights in a country where hard-labor, “reeducation” camps were once vaunted as an antidote to homosexuality. “Homophobia in Cuba is part of what makes you a ‘man,’” she says. “It’s part of the masculine role. Boys are taught to have violent reactions so they can show their masculinity. Boys are destroyed in this country this way."
...these are not ordinary times, and Mariela Castro EspÃn is no ordinary president’s daughter. To the Havana police she’s the thorn in their side who shows up at the station on behalf of those arrested and detained on trumped-up loitering or prostitution charges. The transgender community knows her as the woman who turned her offices into a refuge for those who have been expelled from their homes, or worse. Wendy Diaz, a beautiful young trans woman who bears an uncanny resemblance to the pop star Shakira -- and who drew admiring glances from the men at the various tables around us when we met for drinks one evening on the terrace of the Hotel Nacional -- told me how Castro EspÃn once chased a boy for five blocks before collaring him for throwing rocks at “Mariela’s girls” outside the offices of CENESEX.
“I think Mariela’s leadership has been a key factor in the success of the work of CENESEX, and the prestige she carries because of her family name has only helped,” says Margaret Gilpin, a New York–based filmmaker whose award-winning 1996 documentary Butterflies on a Scaffold was the first to explore gay and drag culture in Cuba in the mid '90s. “Her presence, and the fact that [CENESEX] has focused its work on educating the general Cuban population on issues of concern to the LGBT community, to combating homophobia, and to trying to change laws and regulations to conform to current thinking on LGBT issues, has been critical to whatever success has been achieved so far.”
Under Castro EspÃn’s auspices, 2008 was a pivotal year for LGBT rights in the country. The government passed a resolution allowing transsexuals to undergo sex-reassignment surgeries free of charge. And Cuba stepped onto the stage of international gay rights discourse with its inaugural Day Against Homophobia, sanctioned at the highest levels of the Castro government and attended by thousands of ordinary gay and lesbian Cubans, as well as gay rights activists and government officials. The 2009 Day Against Homophobia numbers surpassed the attendance of the 2008 event, and organizers intend to make it an annual occurrence.
Castro EspÃn is also carefully but persistently lobbying on behalf of a bill to legalize same-sex civil unions that is proceeding slowly through parliament -- the term “gay marriage” being as problematic for Cubans as it is for many Americans. “Instead of just working with Cuban gays and lesbians so they could fit into the rest of society,” Castro EspÃn explains, “our strategy [at CENESEX] is to work with the population so that they could accept, and be educated on, sexual diversity. The people who have the problem are not gay people, but the general population.”
Click here to read the rest of the feature on a remarkable woman and LGBT ally.
Daily Devotional 10/2/09 "Are You Exhausted Spiritually?"
From: My Utmost for His Highest
The everlasting God . . . fainteth not, neither is weary. Isaiah 40:28
Exhaustion means that the vital forces are worn right out. Spiritual exhaustion never comes through sin but only through service, and whether or not you are exhausted will depend upon where you get your supplies. Jesus said to Peter - "Feed My sheep," but He gave him nothing to feed them with. The process of being made broken bread and poured out wine means that you have to be the nourishment for other souls until they learn to feed on God. They must drain you to the dregs. Be careful that you get your supply, or before long you will be utterly exhausted. Before other souls learn to draw on the life of the Lord Jesus direct, they have to draw on it through you; you have to be literally "sucked," until they learn to take their nourishment from God. We owe it to God to be our best for His lambs and His sheep as well as for Himself.
Has the way in which you have been serving God betrayed you into exhaustion? If so, then rally your affections. Where did you start the service from? From your own sympathy or from the basis of the Redemption of Jesus Christ? Continually go back to the foundation of your affections and recollect where the source of power is. You have no right to say - "O Lord, I am so exhausted." He saved and sanctified you in order to exhaust you. Be exhausted for God, but remember that your supply comes from Him. "All my fresh springs shall be in Thee."
The everlasting God . . . fainteth not, neither is weary. Isaiah 40:28
Exhaustion means that the vital forces are worn right out. Spiritual exhaustion never comes through sin but only through service, and whether or not you are exhausted will depend upon where you get your supplies. Jesus said to Peter - "Feed My sheep," but He gave him nothing to feed them with. The process of being made broken bread and poured out wine means that you have to be the nourishment for other souls until they learn to feed on God. They must drain you to the dregs. Be careful that you get your supply, or before long you will be utterly exhausted. Before other souls learn to draw on the life of the Lord Jesus direct, they have to draw on it through you; you have to be literally "sucked," until they learn to take their nourishment from God. We owe it to God to be our best for His lambs and His sheep as well as for Himself.
Has the way in which you have been serving God betrayed you into exhaustion? If so, then rally your affections. Where did you start the service from? From your own sympathy or from the basis of the Redemption of Jesus Christ? Continually go back to the foundation of your affections and recollect where the source of power is. You have no right to say - "O Lord, I am so exhausted." He saved and sanctified you in order to exhaust you. Be exhausted for God, but remember that your supply comes from Him. "All my fresh springs shall be in Thee."
October 01, 2009
LGBT Helping Hands 10/1/09: Hartford Gay & Lesbian Health Collective (CT)
Founded in 1983 by volunteer health professionals and supporters, and incorporated in 1986, The Hartford Gay & Lesbian Health Collective, Inc. (HGLHC), has become an organization with full and part-time staff and nearly 70 volunteers contributing thousands of hours annually.
Since its inception, the Hallmark of the Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective has been the provision of quality services by professional and highly skilled staff and volunteers in a Safe, and welcoming environment, free of judgmental attitudes or prejudice.
The Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health collective currently provides medical services, support groups, mental health services and health education tailored to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities but serves clients of all genders and gender identities, sexual orientations, ages and ethnicity. The Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective is especially proud of its services to people living with HIV/AIDS. We touch the lives of thousands of people every year.
The Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective is an advocate for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues and is proud to maintain a prominent presence at meetings, events and venues where issues of relevance to HGLHC's constituency are discussed, decided or celebrated.
Our Mission
"The Hartford Gay & Lesbian Health Collective empowers individuals of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions to lead healthy lives through the provision of health and support services, education and advocacy."
Our Vision
“The Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective will continually address, anticipate, and respond to the comprehensive health needs of people of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions in Connecticut, while maintaining a financially stable and viable organization.”
Our Values
The Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective will apply the following values as it carries out its mission:
*We are committed to providing client centered quality services and programs consistent with professionally accepted standards of care.
*We celebrate and embrace the commonalities and differences of all persons touched by our organization.
*We treat all persons with dignity and respect.
*We encourage and support professional growth and development.
*We strive to create and maintain a physically and emotionally safe and inclusive environment that runs seamlessly through all aspects of our programs and services.
*We aspire to be a positive and influential leader in all aspects of our service to the community.
*We are advocates for mental and physical health in our community and encourage and support all in making healthy choices for their lives.
Click here to find out more.
Since its inception, the Hallmark of the Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective has been the provision of quality services by professional and highly skilled staff and volunteers in a Safe, and welcoming environment, free of judgmental attitudes or prejudice.
The Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health collective currently provides medical services, support groups, mental health services and health education tailored to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities but serves clients of all genders and gender identities, sexual orientations, ages and ethnicity. The Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective is especially proud of its services to people living with HIV/AIDS. We touch the lives of thousands of people every year.
The Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective is an advocate for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues and is proud to maintain a prominent presence at meetings, events and venues where issues of relevance to HGLHC's constituency are discussed, decided or celebrated.
Our Mission
"The Hartford Gay & Lesbian Health Collective empowers individuals of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions to lead healthy lives through the provision of health and support services, education and advocacy."
Our Vision
“The Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective will continually address, anticipate, and respond to the comprehensive health needs of people of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions in Connecticut, while maintaining a financially stable and viable organization.”
Our Values
The Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective will apply the following values as it carries out its mission:
*We are committed to providing client centered quality services and programs consistent with professionally accepted standards of care.
*We celebrate and embrace the commonalities and differences of all persons touched by our organization.
*We treat all persons with dignity and respect.
*We encourage and support professional growth and development.
*We strive to create and maintain a physically and emotionally safe and inclusive environment that runs seamlessly through all aspects of our programs and services.
*We aspire to be a positive and influential leader in all aspects of our service to the community.
*We are advocates for mental and physical health in our community and encourage and support all in making healthy choices for their lives.
Click here to find out more.
Encouraging Words 10/1/09-"A Heart For Worship, Part 1
Enjoy Part 1 of "A Heart For Worship", a sermon delivered by Pastor Leslie Tipton of the Church of the Holy SpiritSong in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.
SNN Recommends 10/1/09-Fortunate Families
Grounded in Catholic tradition, Fortunate Families ministers primarily with Catholic parents of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender daughters and sons—but welcomes families of all faiths. When parents explore and value their personal stories, they are empowered to share that story with their family circle, their faith community and the larger society.
Parents just learning that a son is gay or a daughter is lesbian will find resources—including the Fortunate Families Newsletter—and support to help them understand, accept, and affirm their child who is a child of God. Catholic parents will find information regarding Church teaching and pastoral responses to the gay or lesbian child. Parents of lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender daughters and gay sons who yearn for a more welcoming church and society will find strategies for making their faith communities and their world safer and more just for their children.
Grounded in Catholic tradition, Fortunate Families welcomes families of all faiths.
Click here to find out more.
Parents just learning that a son is gay or a daughter is lesbian will find resources—including the Fortunate Families Newsletter—and support to help them understand, accept, and affirm their child who is a child of God. Catholic parents will find information regarding Church teaching and pastoral responses to the gay or lesbian child. Parents of lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender daughters and gay sons who yearn for a more welcoming church and society will find strategies for making their faith communities and their world safer and more just for their children.
Grounded in Catholic tradition, Fortunate Families welcomes families of all faiths.
Click here to find out more.
Matthew 25 Resource 10/1/09-The Illumination Foundation (Irvine, CA)
The Illumination Foundation (IF) is a grassroots organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of homelessness in Orange County. IF provides stable housing and comprehensive wrap-around services for the families in the program, so that they might build a future life of independence. IF is a non-denominational organization that combines services from public agencies and private organizations to offer an on-site comprehensive wrap-around approach to homeless families. These wrap-around services include: case management, medical services, mental health counseling, tutoring, and counseling on life skills, job, and financial matters. IF’s vision is to help the homeless families reach self-sufficiency. To do this, IF is anticipating needs and developing comprehensive and effective programs that acknowledge the dignity of those that they serve and focus on breaking the cycle of homelessness.
Click here to find out more.
Click here to find out more.
Iowans-Gay Marriage Has Brought No Real Change
The Des Moines Register has published the results of an extensive survey in Iowa regarding attitudes toward same-sex marriage (hat tip PageOneQ). Here's what really jumped out at us:
The overwhelming majority of Iowans - 92 percent - say gay marriage has brought no real change to their lives.
Try to match that up with some of the anti-equality rhetoric that warns of how same-sex marriage will damage the institution of marriage and tear at the very fabric of society. If that has happened, Iowa obviously missed it. Here's more from the survey:
Iowans are almost evenly divided about whether they would vote for or against a constitutional amendment to end marriage for same-sex couples, according to The Des Moines Register's new Iowa Poll.
Forty-one percent say they would vote for a ban, and 40 percent say they would vote to continue gay marriage. The rest either would not vote or say they are not sure.
The most intensity about the issue shows up among opponents. The percentage of Iowans who say they strongly oppose gay marriage (35 percent) is nearly double the percentage who say they strongly favor it (18 percent).
The poll shows that 26 percent of Iowans favor April's unanimous court ruling legalizing same-sex marriage, 43 percent oppose it and 31 percent don't care much or are not sure.
Despite the 43 percent opposition to the ruling, 61 percent of Iowans say other issues will influence their decision on whether to vote to retain Iowa Supreme Court justices in the 2010 elections.
We've seen elsewhere around the nation that equality opponents will NOT give up, usually believing that their narrow, out-of-context interpretation of a few bible verses gives them the moral high ground, and giving up would be tantamount to give Satan a victory.
Hopefully more grounded views with a greater depth of understanding and compassion towards the rights of ALL people will prevail in Iowa, and eventually the entire United States.
Click here to read the rest of the Des Moines Register story.
The overwhelming majority of Iowans - 92 percent - say gay marriage has brought no real change to their lives.
Try to match that up with some of the anti-equality rhetoric that warns of how same-sex marriage will damage the institution of marriage and tear at the very fabric of society. If that has happened, Iowa obviously missed it. Here's more from the survey:
Iowans are almost evenly divided about whether they would vote for or against a constitutional amendment to end marriage for same-sex couples, according to The Des Moines Register's new Iowa Poll.
Forty-one percent say they would vote for a ban, and 40 percent say they would vote to continue gay marriage. The rest either would not vote or say they are not sure.
The most intensity about the issue shows up among opponents. The percentage of Iowans who say they strongly oppose gay marriage (35 percent) is nearly double the percentage who say they strongly favor it (18 percent).
The poll shows that 26 percent of Iowans favor April's unanimous court ruling legalizing same-sex marriage, 43 percent oppose it and 31 percent don't care much or are not sure.
Despite the 43 percent opposition to the ruling, 61 percent of Iowans say other issues will influence their decision on whether to vote to retain Iowa Supreme Court justices in the 2010 elections.
We've seen elsewhere around the nation that equality opponents will NOT give up, usually believing that their narrow, out-of-context interpretation of a few bible verses gives them the moral high ground, and giving up would be tantamount to give Satan a victory.
Hopefully more grounded views with a greater depth of understanding and compassion towards the rights of ALL people will prevail in Iowa, and eventually the entire United States.
Click here to read the rest of the Des Moines Register story.
Daily Devotional 10/1/09 "Do You See Your Calling?"
From: My Utmost for His Highest
Separated unto the Gospel. Romans 1:1
Our calling is not primarily to be holy men and women, but to be proclaimers of the Gospel of God. The one thing that is all important is that the Gospel of God should be realized as the abiding Reality. Reality is not human goodness, nor holiness, nor heaven, nor hell; but Redemption; and the need to perceive this is the most vital need of the Christian worker to-day. As workers we have to get used to the revelation that Redemption is the only Reality. Personal holiness is an effect, not a cause, and if we place our faith in human goodness, in the effect of Redemption, we shall go under when the test comes.
Paul did not say he separated himself, but - "when it pleased God who separated me. . ." Paul had not a hypersensitive interest in his own character. As long as our eyes are upon our own personal whiteness we shall never get near the reality of Redemption. Workers break down because their desire is for their own whiteness, and not for God. "Don't ask me to come into contact with the rugged reality of Redemption on behalf of the filth of human life as it is; what I want is anything God can do for me to make me more desirable in my own eyes." To talk in that way is a sign that the reality of the Gospel of God has not begun to touch me; there is no reckless abandon to God. God cannot deliver me while my interest is merely in my own character. Paul is unconscious of himself, he is recklessly abandoned, separated by God for one purpose - to proclaim the Gospel of God (cf. Rom. 9:3.)
Separated unto the Gospel. Romans 1:1
Our calling is not primarily to be holy men and women, but to be proclaimers of the Gospel of God. The one thing that is all important is that the Gospel of God should be realized as the abiding Reality. Reality is not human goodness, nor holiness, nor heaven, nor hell; but Redemption; and the need to perceive this is the most vital need of the Christian worker to-day. As workers we have to get used to the revelation that Redemption is the only Reality. Personal holiness is an effect, not a cause, and if we place our faith in human goodness, in the effect of Redemption, we shall go under when the test comes.
Paul did not say he separated himself, but - "when it pleased God who separated me. . ." Paul had not a hypersensitive interest in his own character. As long as our eyes are upon our own personal whiteness we shall never get near the reality of Redemption. Workers break down because their desire is for their own whiteness, and not for God. "Don't ask me to come into contact with the rugged reality of Redemption on behalf of the filth of human life as it is; what I want is anything God can do for me to make me more desirable in my own eyes." To talk in that way is a sign that the reality of the Gospel of God has not begun to touch me; there is no reckless abandon to God. God cannot deliver me while my interest is merely in my own character. Paul is unconscious of himself, he is recklessly abandoned, separated by God for one purpose - to proclaim the Gospel of God (cf. Rom. 9:3.)
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