http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=180713312&MyToken=168f06f5-df43-43b5-ad66-dd3d1305a724
Fountain of Love Ministries is designed to show all people the love of Jesus.We believe in I Cor. 13 "and the greatest of these is love". How can we say we love Jesus who we have never seen and not love our brothers and sisters.
We will strive to be instrumental in mending the hearts of those that have been hurt, broken, rejected, down-trotten, and cast aside.
For there is a fountain filled with the love of God that will flow from heart to heart.
Fountain of Love Ministries is based in Ft Lauderdale Florida.
July 15, 2008
Let's Give McDonalds Some Love
I'll admit it, I love McDonalds. Meals there are a major part of my life. Nothing to brag about, mind you, but I share that in the interest of full disclosure regarding this post.
You see, our buddies at the American Family Association have their knickers in a twist because McDonalds has the nerve to contribute to the Gay Chamber of Commerce. The AFA strongly defends the free-market system, unless a company does something its leaders don't like. This is one of those instances, so they have played the old, worn out, boycott card.
Here's an excerpt from an essay about it from 365Gay.com:
The AFA’s big beef with McDonald’s is that the company donated to the gay chamber of commerce. Surf over to the AFA Web site and you’ll read that the group is concerned “about McDonald’s, as a corporation, refusing to remain neutral in the culture wars,” the AFA states. “McDonald’s has chosen not to remain neutral but to give the full weight of their corporation to promoting the homosexual agenda, including homosexual marriage.”In short, the AFA is not loving it.
But I’m loving it.
I’m loving this curious development that an iconic American company is standing firm against the oh-so un-American American Family Association, which at every right turn stands against justice and equality.
I’m loving that McDonald’s USA spokesman Bill Whitman defended the restaurant’s policy in the Washington Post proclaiming, “Hatred has no place in our culture. That includes McDonald’s, and we stand by and support our people to live and work in a society free of discrimination and harassment.”
Out of respect for this honorable approach, I'll try really hard not to get upset the next time one of their stores screws up my order.
Click here to read the rest of the 365Gay.com article.
You see, our buddies at the American Family Association have their knickers in a twist because McDonalds has the nerve to contribute to the Gay Chamber of Commerce. The AFA strongly defends the free-market system, unless a company does something its leaders don't like. This is one of those instances, so they have played the old, worn out, boycott card.
Here's an excerpt from an essay about it from 365Gay.com:
The AFA’s big beef with McDonald’s is that the company donated to the gay chamber of commerce. Surf over to the AFA Web site and you’ll read that the group is concerned “about McDonald’s, as a corporation, refusing to remain neutral in the culture wars,” the AFA states. “McDonald’s has chosen not to remain neutral but to give the full weight of their corporation to promoting the homosexual agenda, including homosexual marriage.”In short, the AFA is not loving it.
But I’m loving it.
I’m loving this curious development that an iconic American company is standing firm against the oh-so un-American American Family Association, which at every right turn stands against justice and equality.
I’m loving that McDonald’s USA spokesman Bill Whitman defended the restaurant’s policy in the Washington Post proclaiming, “Hatred has no place in our culture. That includes McDonald’s, and we stand by and support our people to live and work in a society free of discrimination and harassment.”
Out of respect for this honorable approach, I'll try really hard not to get upset the next time one of their stores screws up my order.
Click here to read the rest of the 365Gay.com article.
Link of the Day: 42
http://42.blogs.warnock.me.uk/
This is a blog written by Dave Warnock, a Methodist minister in the U. K. He writes on experiences at his church, but also covers computer and web topics and cycling, a passion of his.
Recently, there has been a lot of discussion on this blog about the revival in Lakeland, Florida led by evangelist Todd Bentley as people still continue to have two minds about what, if anything, the Holy Spirit is doing down there.
There are plenty of interesting topics on this blog and worth checking out.
This is a blog written by Dave Warnock, a Methodist minister in the U. K. He writes on experiences at his church, but also covers computer and web topics and cycling, a passion of his.
Recently, there has been a lot of discussion on this blog about the revival in Lakeland, Florida led by evangelist Todd Bentley as people still continue to have two minds about what, if anything, the Holy Spirit is doing down there.
There are plenty of interesting topics on this blog and worth checking out.
July 14, 2008
Archbishop of Wales Willing to Consecrate a Gay Bishop
From the BBC (hat tip to PageOneQ)
Barry Morgan spoke as the world's first openly gay bishop, whose ordination has caused a split in the Anglican church, is to preach at a church in London.
Bishop of New Hampshire Gene Robinson has been excluded from the Lambeth Conference of church leaders.
Dr Morgan said the consecration of a gay bishop would no problem to him, although it might be for his church, and he would "alert" fellow leaders.
He said: "If I thought that a person who had been nominated was an excellent candidate in every other way and that he was in a faithful relationship - for me personally that would not present a problem.
"But of course it might present a problem for my church and I would have to alert the electoral college to that," Dr Morgan added.
Bishop Robinson has been excluded from the Lambeth Conference, held every 10 years, but will be in Canterbury at the same time.
He is due to speak at St Mary's Church in Putney, west London, on Sunday.
Anglican conservatives set up a splinter movement earlier this month, in rejection of the acceptance of gay bishops.
Members of the Global Anglican Future Conference movement established the Fellowship of Confessing Anglicans.
Bishop Robinson publicly announced his sexuality in the 1980s and has since been in a 20-year relationship with his current partner.
Barry Morgan spoke as the world's first openly gay bishop, whose ordination has caused a split in the Anglican church, is to preach at a church in London.
Bishop of New Hampshire Gene Robinson has been excluded from the Lambeth Conference of church leaders.
Dr Morgan said the consecration of a gay bishop would no problem to him, although it might be for his church, and he would "alert" fellow leaders.
He said: "If I thought that a person who had been nominated was an excellent candidate in every other way and that he was in a faithful relationship - for me personally that would not present a problem.
"But of course it might present a problem for my church and I would have to alert the electoral college to that," Dr Morgan added.
Bishop Robinson has been excluded from the Lambeth Conference, held every 10 years, but will be in Canterbury at the same time.
He is due to speak at St Mary's Church in Putney, west London, on Sunday.
Anglican conservatives set up a splinter movement earlier this month, in rejection of the acceptance of gay bishops.
Members of the Global Anglican Future Conference movement established the Fellowship of Confessing Anglicans.
Bishop Robinson publicly announced his sexuality in the 1980s and has since been in a 20-year relationship with his current partner.
MySpace Friend of the Day: A Rainbow Place
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=272414552&MyToken=168f06f5-df43-43b5-ad66-dd3d1305a724
A Rainbow Place is dedicated to the unity, self awareness, respect, dignity, and health of the diverse gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, HIV positive and questioning community.
Our community and counseling center is primarily a safe haven and supportive space where GLBTQI people and our allies can come together in a safe and casual atmosphere. Above all else, our concern is for the health and well-being of the Reno (NV) metro LGBTQ population.
A Rainbow Place is dedicated to the unity, self awareness, respect, dignity, and health of the diverse gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, HIV positive and questioning community.
Our community and counseling center is primarily a safe haven and supportive space where GLBTQI people and our allies can come together in a safe and casual atmosphere. Above all else, our concern is for the health and well-being of the Reno (NV) metro LGBTQ population.
July 13, 2008
Whosoever Magazine on Freedom
The theme of the latest issue of Whosoever Magazine, an online magazine for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender christians, is freedom.
Editor Candace Chellew-Hodge writes about "The Paradox of Freedom."
Rev. Suzie Chamness contributes "Where the Spirit of the Lord is, There is Liberty."
John H. Campbell writes about a "Reason for Celebration."
Rev. Dr. Jerry S. Maneker contributes "Gay Bashing, the Politics of Religion."
I recommend that you check out these and the other articles in this month's issue.
Editor Candace Chellew-Hodge writes about "The Paradox of Freedom."
Rev. Suzie Chamness contributes "Where the Spirit of the Lord is, There is Liberty."
John H. Campbell writes about a "Reason for Celebration."
Rev. Dr. Jerry S. Maneker contributes "Gay Bashing, the Politics of Religion."
I recommend that you check out these and the other articles in this month's issue.
July 11, 2008
Wayne Besen on "The 'Pro-Family' Scam"
It's one thing to call out a group as hypocrites. It's another to support it with facts. In his most recent column, Wayne Besen does both as he skewers the "Pro-Family" (read: anti-gay) lobby:
The last few weeks have shown that so-called pro-family organizations are some of the most useless, money-sucking scams in the world. With real families suffering from economic hardship in America, a declining birthrate in Europe and Google doubling the price of daycare for employees, the only thing right wing family groups want to discuss is their bizarre and all-encompassing fagela fetish.
Recently, The Brooklyn Paper, had a huge headline, "SPLITSVILLE: Brooklyn divorces up 30%." The article cited a number of reasons including, "when the economy tanks, so do many marriages."
One would think this would alarm so-called pro-family organizations and they would be out in force repairing marriages -- or at least looking for economic solutions to take the stress off couples. Unfortunately, as I walked around my Brooklyn neighborhood, I saw not one representative from the American Family Association.
Well, I take that back. I did encounter one of the group's representatives on CNN Headline News as we debated a Heinz mayonnaise ad in the United Kingdom that featured two men kissing. I'm sure the children of these broken marriages in Brooklyn will feel much better knowing Heinz pulled the ad and they can have gay-free mayonnaise at both mommy and daddy's separate houses.
A new study by the Center for Labor Market Studies at Northeastern University showed that in 2006, for the first time in U.S. history, a majority of births to women under 30 -- 50.4 percent -- were out of wedlock. New York Times columnist Bob Herbert points out that, "By comparison, when John F. Kennedy was elected president in 1960, just 6 percent of all births were to unmarried women under 30.
One imagines that this report might have startled "pro-family" organizations and they would have put their millions of dollars towards stopping this trend. No such luck. Instead, they are investing huge piles of money and manpower to pass anti-gay marriage amendments in Florida, Arizona and California. The upshot for "pro-family" groups is that if heterosexuals keep screwing up marriage, by the time gay people finally win the right nationally, we won't want to use it.
If a landlord was spending all of his time and money in court protecting his building from destruction while it fell into disrepair and threatened to fall down on its own, I think most rational people would realize how foolish that approach would be.
Instead of fighting to keep GLBT people out of the institution of marriage, perhaps these anti-gay groups should instead focus their efforts on repairing the part that is already legal.
Click here to read the rest of Wayne Besen's column.
The last few weeks have shown that so-called pro-family organizations are some of the most useless, money-sucking scams in the world. With real families suffering from economic hardship in America, a declining birthrate in Europe and Google doubling the price of daycare for employees, the only thing right wing family groups want to discuss is their bizarre and all-encompassing fagela fetish.
Recently, The Brooklyn Paper, had a huge headline, "SPLITSVILLE: Brooklyn divorces up 30%." The article cited a number of reasons including, "when the economy tanks, so do many marriages."
One would think this would alarm so-called pro-family organizations and they would be out in force repairing marriages -- or at least looking for economic solutions to take the stress off couples. Unfortunately, as I walked around my Brooklyn neighborhood, I saw not one representative from the American Family Association.
Well, I take that back. I did encounter one of the group's representatives on CNN Headline News as we debated a Heinz mayonnaise ad in the United Kingdom that featured two men kissing. I'm sure the children of these broken marriages in Brooklyn will feel much better knowing Heinz pulled the ad and they can have gay-free mayonnaise at both mommy and daddy's separate houses.
A new study by the Center for Labor Market Studies at Northeastern University showed that in 2006, for the first time in U.S. history, a majority of births to women under 30 -- 50.4 percent -- were out of wedlock. New York Times columnist Bob Herbert points out that, "By comparison, when John F. Kennedy was elected president in 1960, just 6 percent of all births were to unmarried women under 30.
One imagines that this report might have startled "pro-family" organizations and they would have put their millions of dollars towards stopping this trend. No such luck. Instead, they are investing huge piles of money and manpower to pass anti-gay marriage amendments in Florida, Arizona and California. The upshot for "pro-family" groups is that if heterosexuals keep screwing up marriage, by the time gay people finally win the right nationally, we won't want to use it.
If a landlord was spending all of his time and money in court protecting his building from destruction while it fell into disrepair and threatened to fall down on its own, I think most rational people would realize how foolish that approach would be.
Instead of fighting to keep GLBT people out of the institution of marriage, perhaps these anti-gay groups should instead focus their efforts on repairing the part that is already legal.
Click here to read the rest of Wayne Besen's column.
Link of the Day: GPAC-Gender Public Advocacy Coalition
http://www.gpac.org/
The Gender Public Advocacy Coalition works to ensure that classrooms, communities, and workplaces are safe for everyone to learn, grow, and succeed - whether or not they meet expectations for masculinity and femininity.
As a human rights organization, GenderPAC also promotes an understanding of the connection between discrimination based on gender stereotypes and sex, sexual orientation, age, race, and class.
The Gender Public Advocacy Coalition works to ensure that classrooms, communities, and workplaces are safe for everyone to learn, grow, and succeed - whether or not they meet expectations for masculinity and femininity.
As a human rights organization, GenderPAC also promotes an understanding of the connection between discrimination based on gender stereotypes and sex, sexual orientation, age, race, and class.
July 10, 2008
MySpace Friend of the Day: Heart of Hope LGBT-Friendly Worship
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=369856103&MyToken=34b7cd83-97a8-4e1e-907e-d7d05eb4421c
Formerly MCC of the Hudson Valley, this ministry meets in downtown Albany, NY
Heart of Hope embraces the diversity of God's creationby celebrating our unity in Christ. We value a religious fellowship that is open to all, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, sex, class, physical ability, socioeconomic status, family status, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Friends, partners, families, and those wishing to explore their own spiritual journeys are always welcome.
Formerly MCC of the Hudson Valley, this ministry meets in downtown Albany, NY
Heart of Hope embraces the diversity of God's creationby celebrating our unity in Christ. We value a religious fellowship that is open to all, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, sex, class, physical ability, socioeconomic status, family status, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Friends, partners, families, and those wishing to explore their own spiritual journeys are always welcome.
Calling for a Truce in the Culture War
From the Washington Post's "On Faith" section:
Dear Senators McCain and Obama:
For our entire lives, America has been polarized by an angry culture war over such divisive issues as abortion and gay rights. It has been a fight marked by sincere passion and principles on the one hand, but also by stridency, vituperation, and lack of respect for the opposing sides’ motives and beliefs on the other.
We write to you from two traditionally warring camps, one evangelical and one progressive, joined in one voice and one vision, to offer an olive branch to end the culture wars. This olive branch is not a surrender, but a new approach that allows each of you to maintain your core principles, just as we have maintained ours, and heal a nation that is tired of the fight. This approach is based on common ground and common values.
In the 35-year fight since Roe v. Wade, it seems there are few common values to be found between our opposing sides. But it turns out that nearly all of us agree on the common value that we should reduce the need for abortions in America.
Supporting that common value is the common ground of dramatically reducing the number of unintended pregnancies in this country that lead to abortions. It means together supporting sex education programs that include accurate information about contraception and the importance of abstinence so that fewer unintended pregnancies occur. It means together supporting programs that teach parents how to communicate better with their children about values and programs that give low-income women greater access to contraception. It means that together we can agree that abortion should never be the only option and that young and poor pregnant women should receive support when they feel they need it to carry their pregnancy to term. The truth is that the most effective way to reduce the prevalence of abortions in America is to actually work together rather than to fight.
Gay and lesbian issues, like abortion, have also been tearing the nation apart. Here again, the differences are real and rooted in theological and philosophical differences. But on these issues too we can find a shared common value and shared path forward. That shared value is human dignity. We can all agree that all human beings are created in God’s image and have and deserve an innate human dignity - even those with whom one differs or disagrees. We can all agree that honoring this human dignity is a high moral and religious calling. And we can agree that any laws we create to expand rights must not abridge the religious liberty of religious communities. Common ground means, for example, that, apart from religious institutions, the workplace should judge you at work for the job you do and nothing more. That would be a careful step along America’s journey to fulfill its national ideals, and also to honor our highest moral and religious beliefs.
Senators McCain and Obama, each of you are running as a different kind of candidate, seeking to bring the nation together rather than to split us apart. Each of you has great potential to model a new type of leadership. Each of you has the power to heal the country and carve a new path forward through our shared common values.
We humbly submit our joint prayer that you, Senators McCain and Obama, help bring a just end to the culture wars.
With great respect,
David Gushee, Ph.D., Distinguished Professor of Christian Ethics, Mercer University.
Rachel Laser, Culture Program Director, Third Way.
Unfortunately, the comments posted show how unlikely that is to be driven by the general population. It will take strong leadership at the highest levels of our nation to change that paradigm. I hope Barack Obama can at least nudge us in a more civil direction.
Dear Senators McCain and Obama:
For our entire lives, America has been polarized by an angry culture war over such divisive issues as abortion and gay rights. It has been a fight marked by sincere passion and principles on the one hand, but also by stridency, vituperation, and lack of respect for the opposing sides’ motives and beliefs on the other.
We write to you from two traditionally warring camps, one evangelical and one progressive, joined in one voice and one vision, to offer an olive branch to end the culture wars. This olive branch is not a surrender, but a new approach that allows each of you to maintain your core principles, just as we have maintained ours, and heal a nation that is tired of the fight. This approach is based on common ground and common values.
In the 35-year fight since Roe v. Wade, it seems there are few common values to be found between our opposing sides. But it turns out that nearly all of us agree on the common value that we should reduce the need for abortions in America.
Supporting that common value is the common ground of dramatically reducing the number of unintended pregnancies in this country that lead to abortions. It means together supporting sex education programs that include accurate information about contraception and the importance of abstinence so that fewer unintended pregnancies occur. It means together supporting programs that teach parents how to communicate better with their children about values and programs that give low-income women greater access to contraception. It means that together we can agree that abortion should never be the only option and that young and poor pregnant women should receive support when they feel they need it to carry their pregnancy to term. The truth is that the most effective way to reduce the prevalence of abortions in America is to actually work together rather than to fight.
Gay and lesbian issues, like abortion, have also been tearing the nation apart. Here again, the differences are real and rooted in theological and philosophical differences. But on these issues too we can find a shared common value and shared path forward. That shared value is human dignity. We can all agree that all human beings are created in God’s image and have and deserve an innate human dignity - even those with whom one differs or disagrees. We can all agree that honoring this human dignity is a high moral and religious calling. And we can agree that any laws we create to expand rights must not abridge the religious liberty of religious communities. Common ground means, for example, that, apart from religious institutions, the workplace should judge you at work for the job you do and nothing more. That would be a careful step along America’s journey to fulfill its national ideals, and also to honor our highest moral and religious beliefs.
Senators McCain and Obama, each of you are running as a different kind of candidate, seeking to bring the nation together rather than to split us apart. Each of you has great potential to model a new type of leadership. Each of you has the power to heal the country and carve a new path forward through our shared common values.
We humbly submit our joint prayer that you, Senators McCain and Obama, help bring a just end to the culture wars.
With great respect,
David Gushee, Ph.D., Distinguished Professor of Christian Ethics, Mercer University.
Rachel Laser, Culture Program Director, Third Way.
Unfortunately, the comments posted show how unlikely that is to be driven by the general population. It will take strong leadership at the highest levels of our nation to change that paradigm. I hope Barack Obama can at least nudge us in a more civil direction.
July 09, 2008
Link of the Day: Gay Bible Christians
http://www.gaybiblechristians.org/
Our continued word for our Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, or Transgender visitors and members:
Remember always that you are loved by God [John 3:16], JUST as you are, JUST as He created you to be [Psalm 139:13-16] -- and anyone who says differently is trying to put themselves between you and God [Luke 11:46; Acts 15:5-11; Titus 1:10-11] (and you KNOW whose agenda THAT is! [Matthew 16:23; Mark 4:15]). REJECT false teachings and REMOVE yourself from those who witness falsely against Queer or any other people [Matthew 7:15-29; Galatians 5:1-8; 1 John 4:1] and take care of the Queer people around you who need to see the love of Jesus in your face, in your hands, in your words [John 13:34-35]!
Don't let bad Christians keep you from a good God!
Our continued word for our Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, or Transgender visitors and members:
Remember always that you are loved by God [John 3:16], JUST as you are, JUST as He created you to be [Psalm 139:13-16] -- and anyone who says differently is trying to put themselves between you and God [Luke 11:46; Acts 15:5-11; Titus 1:10-11] (and you KNOW whose agenda THAT is! [Matthew 16:23; Mark 4:15]). REJECT false teachings and REMOVE yourself from those who witness falsely against Queer or any other people [Matthew 7:15-29; Galatians 5:1-8; 1 John 4:1] and take care of the Queer people around you who need to see the love of Jesus in your face, in your hands, in your words [John 13:34-35]!
Don't let bad Christians keep you from a good God!
Hijacked By Conservatives?
That headline could be appropriate for some major religious denominations in the United States, but the story I'm linking to here is about the Church of England (the Anglicans, the mother church of American Episcopals):
From The Independent (London). Thanks to PageOneQ for the link.
The Church of England had a pretty embarrassing start. For despite the fact that the Pope dubbed him the Defender of the Faith, Henry VIII's libido proved stronger than his commitment to Rome – so he slipstreamed the Reformation in order to warm his bed with a younger, prettier wife. So far, so shoddy. Yet, over time, what was cobbled together proved far greater than such ignominious beginnings might suggest. For the special genius of the Church of England was that it embraced a huge diversity of theological opinion. The idea was that we might be united by common worship rather than divided by doctrinaire argument. So why now, after hundreds of years, does this settlement seem under threat as never before?
The Church of England is fundamentally a theological peace treaty. As the Reformation plunged continental Europe into an ideological bloodbath, with Catholics and Protestants murdering each other by the million, England created a church that made the most remarkable claim for itself: both Catholic and Protestant. Sick of religious warfare, it invented the original big tent philosophy. Those of widely different philosophies could kneel together and worship God through the appropriately named Book of Common Prayer.
It was a pragmatic arrangement that came to shape our national character. The English didn't do doctrinal dispute, we frowned on the public exploration of ideological differences characteristic of those hot-headed Continentals. Instead, we agreed to differ and muddled along. We became the world's natural compromisers.
The conservatives have decided that they can exploit the deep homophobia of many African Christians in order to stage a coup for the soul of the church. Suddenly, we are once again fighting the unresolved battles of the Reformation, with narrow-minded puritans seeking to impose their joyless and claustrophobic world-view on the rest of the church. The newly formed Federation of Confessing Anglicans (Foca) is seeking bridgeheads in wealthy evangelical parishes and the English ecclesiological peace treaty lies in tatters. All eyes now turn to Rowan Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury. Is there anything he can do about these Focas?
A traditionally inclusive church like the C of E is especially vulnerable to infiltration by extremists. For the whole point of being inclusive is that all are welcome. It's a natural openness that is currently being exploited by those who have no love in their heart for the very inclusivity that allows them in in the first place. Even more so than the Labour Party in the 1970s, the English church is vulnerable to entryism. If fundamentalist Christianity were allowed to take over the Church of England, it would gain unprecedented access to national government through its role as the established church. The prospect of a state church, determined to convert Muslims, should set off huge flashing red lights in every corridor of power. In America, the separation of church and state creates a firewall between fundamentalist religion and state power. We have no such protection.
While that firewall is not nearly as sturdy as it used to be, the thought of it not being there at all is downright scary.
Click here to read the rest of the column.
From The Independent (London). Thanks to PageOneQ for the link.
The Church of England had a pretty embarrassing start. For despite the fact that the Pope dubbed him the Defender of the Faith, Henry VIII's libido proved stronger than his commitment to Rome – so he slipstreamed the Reformation in order to warm his bed with a younger, prettier wife. So far, so shoddy. Yet, over time, what was cobbled together proved far greater than such ignominious beginnings might suggest. For the special genius of the Church of England was that it embraced a huge diversity of theological opinion. The idea was that we might be united by common worship rather than divided by doctrinaire argument. So why now, after hundreds of years, does this settlement seem under threat as never before?
The Church of England is fundamentally a theological peace treaty. As the Reformation plunged continental Europe into an ideological bloodbath, with Catholics and Protestants murdering each other by the million, England created a church that made the most remarkable claim for itself: both Catholic and Protestant. Sick of religious warfare, it invented the original big tent philosophy. Those of widely different philosophies could kneel together and worship God through the appropriately named Book of Common Prayer.
It was a pragmatic arrangement that came to shape our national character. The English didn't do doctrinal dispute, we frowned on the public exploration of ideological differences characteristic of those hot-headed Continentals. Instead, we agreed to differ and muddled along. We became the world's natural compromisers.
The conservatives have decided that they can exploit the deep homophobia of many African Christians in order to stage a coup for the soul of the church. Suddenly, we are once again fighting the unresolved battles of the Reformation, with narrow-minded puritans seeking to impose their joyless and claustrophobic world-view on the rest of the church. The newly formed Federation of Confessing Anglicans (Foca) is seeking bridgeheads in wealthy evangelical parishes and the English ecclesiological peace treaty lies in tatters. All eyes now turn to Rowan Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury. Is there anything he can do about these Focas?
A traditionally inclusive church like the C of E is especially vulnerable to infiltration by extremists. For the whole point of being inclusive is that all are welcome. It's a natural openness that is currently being exploited by those who have no love in their heart for the very inclusivity that allows them in in the first place. Even more so than the Labour Party in the 1970s, the English church is vulnerable to entryism. If fundamentalist Christianity were allowed to take over the Church of England, it would gain unprecedented access to national government through its role as the established church. The prospect of a state church, determined to convert Muslims, should set off huge flashing red lights in every corridor of power. In America, the separation of church and state creates a firewall between fundamentalist religion and state power. We have no such protection.
While that firewall is not nearly as sturdy as it used to be, the thought of it not being there at all is downright scary.
Click here to read the rest of the column.
July 08, 2008
Right-Wing Coalition Issues "Declaration of American Values"
This 10-point document looks like a typical right-wing (perhaps even far-right) political platform, but to have it attributed to "evangelical leaders" sickens me and gives yet another black eye to evangelicals in general.
Click here for the complete verbage. Here's a summary:
o Help the poor and prevent abortion
o No same-sex marriage
o Freedom of parents to do essentially whatever they see fit in raising their kids
o Freedom for their religion in any and all public venues
o Minimal interference from government regarding issues pertaining to the environment and consumption of natural resources
o Buy guns
o Reign in authority of judges
o Keep military strong, deal with other nations from strength
o No increase in taxes for the rich
While there is a token mention of the poor in the first point, this seems to me as little more than the utterings from a group that believes they have all the answers and don't want any interference while they shape this nation in their image.
You know, like all the stuff Jesus DIDN'T DO during his ministry on Earth. Of course, this type of mentality aims higher than the example of the Son of God.
How twisted and self-absorbed is that?
Click here for the complete verbage. Here's a summary:
o Help the poor and prevent abortion
o No same-sex marriage
o Freedom of parents to do essentially whatever they see fit in raising their kids
o Freedom for their religion in any and all public venues
o Minimal interference from government regarding issues pertaining to the environment and consumption of natural resources
o Buy guns
o Reign in authority of judges
o Keep military strong, deal with other nations from strength
o No increase in taxes for the rich
While there is a token mention of the poor in the first point, this seems to me as little more than the utterings from a group that believes they have all the answers and don't want any interference while they shape this nation in their image.
You know, like all the stuff Jesus DIDN'T DO during his ministry on Earth. Of course, this type of mentality aims higher than the example of the Son of God.
How twisted and self-absorbed is that?
MySpace Friend of the Day: Keep A Breast (boobies!)
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=8634961
The Keep A Breast Foundation, is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.Our mission is to help eradicate breast cancer by exposing young people to methods of prevention, early detection and support. Through art events, educational programs, and fundraising efforts, we seek to increase breast cancer awareness among young people so they are better equipped to make choices and develop habits that will benefit their long-term health and well-being.
Brenda survived a bout with breast cancer last year and, thanks to very early detection, did not require either radiation or chemotherapy. As usually happens when something like that becomes personal, we are big supporters of anyone working to eradicate this deadly disease. If they can do it with a light heart, that's even better--after all, what straight guy doesn't want to fight for boobies?
The Keep A Breast Foundation, is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.Our mission is to help eradicate breast cancer by exposing young people to methods of prevention, early detection and support. Through art events, educational programs, and fundraising efforts, we seek to increase breast cancer awareness among young people so they are better equipped to make choices and develop habits that will benefit their long-term health and well-being.
Brenda survived a bout with breast cancer last year and, thanks to very early detection, did not require either radiation or chemotherapy. As usually happens when something like that becomes personal, we are big supporters of anyone working to eradicate this deadly disease. If they can do it with a light heart, that's even better--after all, what straight guy doesn't want to fight for boobies?
Climb Up So Kids Can Grow Up
Last week, the American Foundation for Children for AIDS was a "Link of the Day" here. Tanya Weaver, the Executive Director of the organization, contacted me and asked if I would mention their upcoming event, and I am happy to do so.
The American Foundation for Children with AIDS (AFCA) and the American Alpine Institute are teaming up again to host Climb Up So Kids Can Grow Up. The global climb-a-thon will increase awareness of the pediatric AIDS pandemic and raise funds for life-saving anti-retroviral (ARV) medication, food, and medical and humanitarian supplies to children affected by HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Hikers, cyclists, climbers, and runners of all ages and skill levels around the globe will participate in Climb Up So Kids Can Grow Up on September 20 and/or 21, 2008. Participants can climb, hike, run or cycle up the structure of their choice, anywhere in the world.
The American Foundation for Children with AIDS (AFCA) is a not-for-profit foundation providing medical supplies and aid to children in countries hardest hit by HIV/AIDS including Kenya, Uganda and Zimbabwe. The sub-Saharan region of Africa is the worst affected by the pediatric AIDS pandemic with more than two million children under the age of 15 living with HIV.
Last year’s climb-a-thon was AFCA’s first and raised over $15,000. “Our goal is to at least double that this year,” said Tanya Weaver, AFCA’s Executive Director. “This year the need is even greater because of the crisis in Kenya, which has made it even more difficult to get medicine and supplies to the children.
“Everyone can ensure that hundreds of children live longer, healthier lives simply by organizing a team wherever you are and climbing up, whether by cycling, running, hiking, or climbing. The important thing is to get the nation and the world moving to help these children.” Weaver noted that all contributions are tax-deductible.
Many leading outdoor and other companies support Climb Up So Kids Can Grow including National Geographic Adventure Magazine, Women’s Adventure Magazine, Skyline Marketing, The River Inn, Chubasco, MadRock, Black Diamond, Petzl, LARABAR, CerconeBrownCurtis and KG Communications.
For more information on registering, forming a team or sponsorship, please go to ClimbUpSoKidsCanGrowUp.com.
The American Foundation for Children with AIDS (AFCA) and the American Alpine Institute are teaming up again to host Climb Up So Kids Can Grow Up. The global climb-a-thon will increase awareness of the pediatric AIDS pandemic and raise funds for life-saving anti-retroviral (ARV) medication, food, and medical and humanitarian supplies to children affected by HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Hikers, cyclists, climbers, and runners of all ages and skill levels around the globe will participate in Climb Up So Kids Can Grow Up on September 20 and/or 21, 2008. Participants can climb, hike, run or cycle up the structure of their choice, anywhere in the world.
The American Foundation for Children with AIDS (AFCA) is a not-for-profit foundation providing medical supplies and aid to children in countries hardest hit by HIV/AIDS including Kenya, Uganda and Zimbabwe. The sub-Saharan region of Africa is the worst affected by the pediatric AIDS pandemic with more than two million children under the age of 15 living with HIV.
Last year’s climb-a-thon was AFCA’s first and raised over $15,000. “Our goal is to at least double that this year,” said Tanya Weaver, AFCA’s Executive Director. “This year the need is even greater because of the crisis in Kenya, which has made it even more difficult to get medicine and supplies to the children.
“Everyone can ensure that hundreds of children live longer, healthier lives simply by organizing a team wherever you are and climbing up, whether by cycling, running, hiking, or climbing. The important thing is to get the nation and the world moving to help these children.” Weaver noted that all contributions are tax-deductible.
Many leading outdoor and other companies support Climb Up So Kids Can Grow including National Geographic Adventure Magazine, Women’s Adventure Magazine, Skyline Marketing, The River Inn, Chubasco, MadRock, Black Diamond, Petzl, LARABAR, CerconeBrownCurtis and KG Communications.
For more information on registering, forming a team or sponsorship, please go to ClimbUpSoKidsCanGrowUp.com.
July 07, 2008
Would You Get Married If It Meant You Could Go to Jail?
These guys are:
From The Capital Times (Madison, WI):
Every summer, Bob Klebba and David Waugh take a family beach vacation to San Diego. Besides fun and sun, this year's trip will have a little something extra: a wedding.
The two Madison men will be getting married at a San Diego courthouse in August. In May, the California Supreme Court ruled that barring same-sex couples from marriage is unconstitutional. Since June 17, same-sex couples have been getting married throughout California. Non-residents are allowed to marry there, too.
"What we might be looking for is outside recognition of our relationship -- recognition from society," Klebba said. "This is a way to ask for that recognition. Happily, California is willing to give us that."
Wisconsin, however, is not. Not only will Klebba's and Waugh's marriage not be recognized here, they could be taking a legal risk by entering into it. Wisconsin is a state that imposes criminal penalties on residents if they enter a marriage outside the state that would be prohibited in the state. The law was created to prohibit underage couples from crossing state lines to marry, but it could be interpreted to apply to same-sex marriages, according to Glenn Carlson of Fair Wisconsin, an advocacy group for gays and lesbians. In Wisconsin, the penalty is a fine of up to $10,000, nine months in prison, or both.
"It would be interesting to be prosecuted," Klebba said. "It would really bring up a reaction in the public sentiment."
That's not why Klebba and Waugh are getting married, however. They're doing it because of what it means to each other.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
From The Capital Times (Madison, WI):
Every summer, Bob Klebba and David Waugh take a family beach vacation to San Diego. Besides fun and sun, this year's trip will have a little something extra: a wedding.
The two Madison men will be getting married at a San Diego courthouse in August. In May, the California Supreme Court ruled that barring same-sex couples from marriage is unconstitutional. Since June 17, same-sex couples have been getting married throughout California. Non-residents are allowed to marry there, too.
"What we might be looking for is outside recognition of our relationship -- recognition from society," Klebba said. "This is a way to ask for that recognition. Happily, California is willing to give us that."
Wisconsin, however, is not. Not only will Klebba's and Waugh's marriage not be recognized here, they could be taking a legal risk by entering into it. Wisconsin is a state that imposes criminal penalties on residents if they enter a marriage outside the state that would be prohibited in the state. The law was created to prohibit underage couples from crossing state lines to marry, but it could be interpreted to apply to same-sex marriages, according to Glenn Carlson of Fair Wisconsin, an advocacy group for gays and lesbians. In Wisconsin, the penalty is a fine of up to $10,000, nine months in prison, or both.
"It would be interesting to be prosecuted," Klebba said. "It would really bring up a reaction in the public sentiment."
That's not why Klebba and Waugh are getting married, however. They're doing it because of what it means to each other.
Click here to read the rest of this story.
Link of the Day: Atticus Circle
http://www.atticuscircle.org/
It is time for us to stand up and stand with our gay and lesbian friends who are being systematically denied the most basic rights and recognition – the very things we, in the heterosexual world, take for granted day after day.
It is time for all children, regardless of their parents’ sexual orientation, to share the same rights and protections.
And it is time for our country to acknowledge that the right to love a partner, be a parent and build a family is a fundamental, equal right for each and every one of us.
Today we need your help to win this “civil rights battle rooted in love.” We need you to add your voice to the growing number of our friends who say, “This just isn’t right.” We invite you to come into the Atticus Circle and stand with others who say, “I’m ready. What can I do?”
This organization also sponsors the cross-country event "Seven Straight Nights '08" Click here to visit that website and learn more about this year's event.
It is time for us to stand up and stand with our gay and lesbian friends who are being systematically denied the most basic rights and recognition – the very things we, in the heterosexual world, take for granted day after day.
It is time for all children, regardless of their parents’ sexual orientation, to share the same rights and protections.
And it is time for our country to acknowledge that the right to love a partner, be a parent and build a family is a fundamental, equal right for each and every one of us.
Today we need your help to win this “civil rights battle rooted in love.” We need you to add your voice to the growing number of our friends who say, “This just isn’t right.” We invite you to come into the Atticus Circle and stand with others who say, “I’m ready. What can I do?”
This organization also sponsors the cross-country event "Seven Straight Nights '08" Click here to visit that website and learn more about this year's event.
Three Simple Rules.....
Bill Browning, the editor of The Bilerico Project, came up with 3 Simple Rules for Politicians in communicating to the GLBT community, and I share them with you because I think they are equally appropriate for anyone speaking to the GLBT community in general or one specific individual.
Rule #1 - Acknowledge Your Audience
Rule #2 - Don't Look Like a Pandering Fool
Rule #3 - Know the Lingo
Click here to read Bill's essay.
Rule #1 - Acknowledge Your Audience
Rule #2 - Don't Look Like a Pandering Fool
Rule #3 - Know the Lingo
Click here to read Bill's essay.
July 05, 2008
Happy Holiday Weekend
For those of you who are not U. S. residents like us, the Fourth of July weekend is a big deal in these parts. We had the opportunity to host a picnic for about 30 members of our church, friends, neighbors, and relatives yesterday. The highlight was the baptism of four people in our new church-provided pool. Afterwards, a spirited game of water volleyball broke out, and everyone enjoyed the boutiful provisions and music provided by Apostle Dale.
We are deeply blessed to be renting a home that is large enough to provide us the opportunity to do things like this. We asked for this as we prayed while we were seeking our new home and that, like so many of our prayers, was answered.
We always find it, well, really neat, to watch people interact at gatherings like this--christians and non-christians, friends and church members, people who wouldn't otherwise have the opportunity to break bread together and share a conversation. You just never know how hearing a different perspective from someone might change their own outlook on life.
Anyway, that's all from us until Monday. Have a great weekend everyone. For our American readers, if you haven't done so already, please take a few moments and appreciate the freedoms we enjoy (although they have been diminished over the last few years) and how great this country still is, despite the efforts of our leaders.
We are deeply blessed to be renting a home that is large enough to provide us the opportunity to do things like this. We asked for this as we prayed while we were seeking our new home and that, like so many of our prayers, was answered.
We always find it, well, really neat, to watch people interact at gatherings like this--christians and non-christians, friends and church members, people who wouldn't otherwise have the opportunity to break bread together and share a conversation. You just never know how hearing a different perspective from someone might change their own outlook on life.
Anyway, that's all from us until Monday. Have a great weekend everyone. For our American readers, if you haven't done so already, please take a few moments and appreciate the freedoms we enjoy (although they have been diminished over the last few years) and how great this country still is, despite the efforts of our leaders.
July 04, 2008
People Can Still Get Uptight Over Grown Men Kissing in the U.K.
From the London Guardian: A video is included in the link.
The UK's advertising regulator has decided not to investigate Heinz's "male kiss" TV ad, despite 215 complaints from viewers that it was offensive and "inappropriate to see two men kissing".
Heinz's TV ad for its new Deli Mayo line, which features two men sharing a brief kiss, has caused an international furore after the food company decided to pull the ad off air after less than a week.
However, the Advertising Standards Authority said today that it will not launch a formal investigation into the complaints about the TV ad.
"The ASA council considered that while some viewers may have personal objections to any portrayal of same sex kissing there was nothing in the content of the advertisement what would constitute a breach of the advertising code," said a spokesman for the ASA.
The Heinz TV ad carried an "ex-kids" restriction, meaning it cannot be shown in or around children's programming, because Heinz Deli Mayo falls foul of Ofcom's TV ad restrictions relating to junk food products.
However, the ASA received a number of complaints saying the ad was inappropriate for children to see or that it prompted awkward conversations about same sex relationships between parents and their kids.
"Even if the ad had not been subject to HFSS restrictions, the ASA would still not have investigated it," said the ASA spokesman.
Heinz UK received around "30 to 40" complaints about the ad and moved to take it off air on Friday June 20, less than a week after it launched on British TV.
Gay advocacy groups, including Stonewall and Gaydar Radio, launched campaigns to have the ad put back on air, urging people to boycott Heinz goods.
In the US, the American Family Association, a powerful Christian group, sent an email alert to its 3.5 million members encouraging them to swamp Heinz's US headquarters with complaints.
Heinz US put out a statement the day after the AFA mobilised its members apologising for its "misplaced attempt at humour", accepting "that this ad was not in accordance with our longstanding corporate policy of respecting everyone's rights and values" – even though the Heinz Deli Mayo commercial was never broadcast on TV in America.
A spokesman for Heinz said that the company had no comment to make on the ASA's decision not to investigate the TV ad.
He added that despite the ad being cleared of breaching the advertising code the company had no plans to put the Heinz Deli Mayo TV commercial back on air.
The UK's advertising regulator has decided not to investigate Heinz's "male kiss" TV ad, despite 215 complaints from viewers that it was offensive and "inappropriate to see two men kissing".
Heinz's TV ad for its new Deli Mayo line, which features two men sharing a brief kiss, has caused an international furore after the food company decided to pull the ad off air after less than a week.
However, the Advertising Standards Authority said today that it will not launch a formal investigation into the complaints about the TV ad.
"The ASA council considered that while some viewers may have personal objections to any portrayal of same sex kissing there was nothing in the content of the advertisement what would constitute a breach of the advertising code," said a spokesman for the ASA.
The Heinz TV ad carried an "ex-kids" restriction, meaning it cannot be shown in or around children's programming, because Heinz Deli Mayo falls foul of Ofcom's TV ad restrictions relating to junk food products.
However, the ASA received a number of complaints saying the ad was inappropriate for children to see or that it prompted awkward conversations about same sex relationships between parents and their kids.
"Even if the ad had not been subject to HFSS restrictions, the ASA would still not have investigated it," said the ASA spokesman.
Heinz UK received around "30 to 40" complaints about the ad and moved to take it off air on Friday June 20, less than a week after it launched on British TV.
Gay advocacy groups, including Stonewall and Gaydar Radio, launched campaigns to have the ad put back on air, urging people to boycott Heinz goods.
In the US, the American Family Association, a powerful Christian group, sent an email alert to its 3.5 million members encouraging them to swamp Heinz's US headquarters with complaints.
Heinz US put out a statement the day after the AFA mobilised its members apologising for its "misplaced attempt at humour", accepting "that this ad was not in accordance with our longstanding corporate policy of respecting everyone's rights and values" – even though the Heinz Deli Mayo commercial was never broadcast on TV in America.
A spokesman for Heinz said that the company had no comment to make on the ASA's decision not to investigate the TV ad.
He added that despite the ad being cleared of breaching the advertising code the company had no plans to put the Heinz Deli Mayo TV commercial back on air.
MySpace Friend of the Day: American Foundation for Children With AIDS
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=154228405&MyToken=2af55d0b-df24-44d7-a006-ce27c357a046
The mission of the American Foundation for Children with AIDS is to improve the lives of children and youth struggling with the impact of the HIV/AIDS pandemic. We provide cost-effective relief, services, medical and social support, education and advocacy to help these victims achieve their full life potential.
The American Foundation for Children with AIDS currently partners with four hospitals in East Africa, providing much needed anti-retroviral and chemotherapy medications, as well as medicine to treat opportunistic diseases for children aged birth-19 who are HIV+ or who have AIDS. We also provide medication for the parents or guardians of these children, as we do not want to create more orphans by ignoring their need for medication and medical care.
AFCA is focusing its support on Sub-Saharan Africa because it has been identified as one of the areas of greatest need. Nearly two-thirds of the world's HIV-positive people live in sub-Saharan Africa, although this region contains little more than 10% of the world's population. With few organizations focusing their efforts to help children affected by HIV/AIDS, AFCA has taken a stand to help in sub-Saharan Africa and remains committed to helping children live fuller and healthier lives.
The mission of the American Foundation for Children with AIDS is to improve the lives of children and youth struggling with the impact of the HIV/AIDS pandemic. We provide cost-effective relief, services, medical and social support, education and advocacy to help these victims achieve their full life potential.
The American Foundation for Children with AIDS currently partners with four hospitals in East Africa, providing much needed anti-retroviral and chemotherapy medications, as well as medicine to treat opportunistic diseases for children aged birth-19 who are HIV+ or who have AIDS. We also provide medication for the parents or guardians of these children, as we do not want to create more orphans by ignoring their need for medication and medical care.
AFCA is focusing its support on Sub-Saharan Africa because it has been identified as one of the areas of greatest need. Nearly two-thirds of the world's HIV-positive people live in sub-Saharan Africa, although this region contains little more than 10% of the world's population. With few organizations focusing their efforts to help children affected by HIV/AIDS, AFCA has taken a stand to help in sub-Saharan Africa and remains committed to helping children live fuller and healthier lives.
Let's Hear it for "Tyson Homosexual"
From PageOneQ:
You'll love this one. It's just another example of how silly the results of right-wing propaganda can be.
Is the American Family Association anti-gay... and anti-'Gay'?
OneNewsNow, the "Christian news service" covertly owned by the AFA, receives syndicated content from providers like the Associated Press and edits instances of the word "gay" to read "homosexual." Although the site is registered to the conservative, anti-gay organization, the fact is not disclosed anywhere on the site.
An article posted Sunday night about Olympic track and field star Tyson Gay was no exception.
"Tyson Homosexual easily won his semifinal for the 100 meters at the U.S. Olympic track and field trials," the article read, "and seemed to save something for the final later Sunday." The headline read "Homosexual eases into 100 final at Olympic events."
"On Saturday," it went on, "Homosexual misjudged the finish in his opening heat and had to scramble to finish fourth, then in his quarterfinal a couple of hours later, ran 9.77 to break the American record that had stood since 1999."
"Asked how he felt, Homosexual said: 'A little fatigued.'"
This morning, OneNewsNow changed its stance on 'Gays' (but not 'gays') and changed the article back to the way the AP had first written it. As late as 9:45am ET today, the online version below referenced the runner as "Tyson Homosexual"; by 10:06am ET the headline and story text had been edited to reunite Gay with his original name.
AP spokesman Jack Spokes said he could not comment without first reviewing the information first brought to him by PageOneQ. Cindy Roberts of the American Family Association said she would "take a look" at the news post. A follow-up message seeking comment on why the ownership of OneNewsNow is not disclosed on the site has not been returned.
To view the original posting, corrected version or the domain registration, click here.
You'll love this one. It's just another example of how silly the results of right-wing propaganda can be.
Is the American Family Association anti-gay... and anti-'Gay'?
OneNewsNow, the "Christian news service" covertly owned by the AFA, receives syndicated content from providers like the Associated Press and edits instances of the word "gay" to read "homosexual." Although the site is registered to the conservative, anti-gay organization, the fact is not disclosed anywhere on the site.
An article posted Sunday night about Olympic track and field star Tyson Gay was no exception.
"Tyson Homosexual easily won his semifinal for the 100 meters at the U.S. Olympic track and field trials," the article read, "and seemed to save something for the final later Sunday." The headline read "Homosexual eases into 100 final at Olympic events."
"On Saturday," it went on, "Homosexual misjudged the finish in his opening heat and had to scramble to finish fourth, then in his quarterfinal a couple of hours later, ran 9.77 to break the American record that had stood since 1999."
"Asked how he felt, Homosexual said: 'A little fatigued.'"
This morning, OneNewsNow changed its stance on 'Gays' (but not 'gays') and changed the article back to the way the AP had first written it. As late as 9:45am ET today, the online version below referenced the runner as "Tyson Homosexual"; by 10:06am ET the headline and story text had been edited to reunite Gay with his original name.
AP spokesman Jack Spokes said he could not comment without first reviewing the information first brought to him by PageOneQ. Cindy Roberts of the American Family Association said she would "take a look" at the news post. A follow-up message seeking comment on why the ownership of OneNewsNow is not disclosed on the site has not been returned.
To view the original posting, corrected version or the domain registration, click here.
July 03, 2008
More on the False Gospel of James Dobson
From Ethics Daily:
For the past eight years, James Dobson's brand of Christianity has been normative in the land. Dobson has preached a Christ acceptable to the present Bush administration. When George W. Bush and company get down on their knees, they pray to the same Christ to whom Dobson turns for guidance in making moral decisions.
Not surprisingly, Dobson has never--to the best of my knowledge--criticized Bush's policies, legislation or actions as being unchristian. And why should he? For both share a brotherhood in worshiping the same Christ.
This is a Christ who has remained silent in the face of human-right violations, atrocities and institutional violence. The Christ whom Dobson and Bush believe in is a Christ that has nothing to say about water boarding; torture of prisoners in United States; care or transporting them to nations for more extensive torture; bearing false witness to start a war; Christians dying in the desert, because they happen to be undocumented immigrants; or the poor, who since 2000 has gotten poorer.
The Christ they bear witness to resembles and justifies their power, privileges, biases and status. It is a Christ that may be affirming to a certain elite in America, but one that brings literal death to those residing on the margins of Bush and Dobson's privileged spaces.
To be a Christian who follows the teaching of the Gospel is to wage war against the Christ offered to us by Dobson and Bush. For their Christ has legitimized and normalized the social, economic and physical genocide of the world's disenfranchised. To be a Christian is to wage this war against all the forces of Satan, who have traded the liberating message of the gospel for 40 pieces of silver, and all the power, recognition and privilege that silver can buy.
Those of you who have written off Christianity, and as a result God Himself, because of how it is practiced by phairasees like James Dobson need to read the rest of this essay for more about what true Christianity resembles.
For the past eight years, James Dobson's brand of Christianity has been normative in the land. Dobson has preached a Christ acceptable to the present Bush administration. When George W. Bush and company get down on their knees, they pray to the same Christ to whom Dobson turns for guidance in making moral decisions.
Not surprisingly, Dobson has never--to the best of my knowledge--criticized Bush's policies, legislation or actions as being unchristian. And why should he? For both share a brotherhood in worshiping the same Christ.
This is a Christ who has remained silent in the face of human-right violations, atrocities and institutional violence. The Christ whom Dobson and Bush believe in is a Christ that has nothing to say about water boarding; torture of prisoners in United States; care or transporting them to nations for more extensive torture; bearing false witness to start a war; Christians dying in the desert, because they happen to be undocumented immigrants; or the poor, who since 2000 has gotten poorer.
The Christ they bear witness to resembles and justifies their power, privileges, biases and status. It is a Christ that may be affirming to a certain elite in America, but one that brings literal death to those residing on the margins of Bush and Dobson's privileged spaces.
To be a Christian who follows the teaching of the Gospel is to wage war against the Christ offered to us by Dobson and Bush. For their Christ has legitimized and normalized the social, economic and physical genocide of the world's disenfranchised. To be a Christian is to wage this war against all the forces of Satan, who have traded the liberating message of the gospel for 40 pieces of silver, and all the power, recognition and privilege that silver can buy.
Those of you who have written off Christianity, and as a result God Himself, because of how it is practiced by phairasees like James Dobson need to read the rest of this essay for more about what true Christianity resembles.
Link of the Day: Fearless, a Photography Project
http://www.fearlesscampustour.org/Home.html
“Fearless” is the name of the photography series I started almost 5 years ago about “out” high school and collegiate athletes who openly self-identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.
Since 2003, I’ve photographed almost 60 athletes across the United States. In 2006, I began exhibiting the project at various high schools and colleges as part of what I named, “Fearless Campus Tour.” So far, the project has been seen at over twenty five campuses around the country.
The project is still ongoing (my goal is over 100 athletes before it will be published into a photobook next year) so please contact me at jeffsheng@jeffsheng(dot)com, if you are an athlete on a high school or college sports team that wishes to be photographed for “Fearless,” or would like more information about the project.
-- Jeff Sheng
“Fearless” is the name of the photography series I started almost 5 years ago about “out” high school and collegiate athletes who openly self-identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.
Since 2003, I’ve photographed almost 60 athletes across the United States. In 2006, I began exhibiting the project at various high schools and colleges as part of what I named, “Fearless Campus Tour.” So far, the project has been seen at over twenty five campuses around the country.
The project is still ongoing (my goal is over 100 athletes before it will be published into a photobook next year) so please contact me at jeffsheng@jeffsheng(dot)com, if you are an athlete on a high school or college sports team that wishes to be photographed for “Fearless,” or would like more information about the project.
-- Jeff Sheng
Black Churches Fighting HIV
From the Tennessean (Nashville, TN):
Taking an HIV test in the pulpit Sunday morning was itself simple.
At Spruce Street Baptist Church, one of Nashville's oldest and most established predominantly African-American congregations, a public health worker opened the test kit and handed the swab it contained to the Rev. Raymond Bowman.
Bowman opened his mouth and, well, swabbed.
In the two minutes that it took, there was awkward silence. There were murmurs. Musicians broke into a low-volume instrumental, usually reserved for moments of prayer.
That scene, or something like it, was repeated Sunday in 26 other predominantly African-American churches around Nashville.
The tests and the messages from pastors that followed about the value and ease of HIV testing, the opportunity for a free test and the need for every adult to know their status were part of a Metro Health Department effort to harness the power and influence of black churches to slow the spread of HIV.
"Sexuality has always been discussed in the black church," said Bowman, after the service. "It's just that with what is going on in the world today, it has got to move from the back burner to the front. We are going to continue to talk about abstinence. But if we want our daughters and our sons to be healthy enough to marry the people that they love, we are going to have to talk about testing, too."
The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate at least 250,000 people in the United States are infected with HIV and are not aware of it. And in the 27 years since the HIV/AIDS epidemic began, African-Americans have come to contract HIV and die of AIDS at disproportionate rates.
While only 13 percent of the U.S. population is black, black men and women account for more than 49 percent of AIDS cases. AIDS is the leading cause of death for black women ages 25 to 34 and the second-leading cause of death for black men ages 35 to 44.
In Nashville, where about 27 percent of the population is black, 55 percent of AIDS cases involve black patients.
I hope more African-American churches follow this lead. Failing to address this issue doesn't make it go away--it only allows it to fester and grow worse.
Click here to read the rest of the article.
Taking an HIV test in the pulpit Sunday morning was itself simple.
At Spruce Street Baptist Church, one of Nashville's oldest and most established predominantly African-American congregations, a public health worker opened the test kit and handed the swab it contained to the Rev. Raymond Bowman.
Bowman opened his mouth and, well, swabbed.
In the two minutes that it took, there was awkward silence. There were murmurs. Musicians broke into a low-volume instrumental, usually reserved for moments of prayer.
That scene, or something like it, was repeated Sunday in 26 other predominantly African-American churches around Nashville.
The tests and the messages from pastors that followed about the value and ease of HIV testing, the opportunity for a free test and the need for every adult to know their status were part of a Metro Health Department effort to harness the power and influence of black churches to slow the spread of HIV.
"Sexuality has always been discussed in the black church," said Bowman, after the service. "It's just that with what is going on in the world today, it has got to move from the back burner to the front. We are going to continue to talk about abstinence. But if we want our daughters and our sons to be healthy enough to marry the people that they love, we are going to have to talk about testing, too."
The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate at least 250,000 people in the United States are infected with HIV and are not aware of it. And in the 27 years since the HIV/AIDS epidemic began, African-Americans have come to contract HIV and die of AIDS at disproportionate rates.
While only 13 percent of the U.S. population is black, black men and women account for more than 49 percent of AIDS cases. AIDS is the leading cause of death for black women ages 25 to 34 and the second-leading cause of death for black men ages 35 to 44.
In Nashville, where about 27 percent of the population is black, 55 percent of AIDS cases involve black patients.
I hope more African-American churches follow this lead. Failing to address this issue doesn't make it go away--it only allows it to fester and grow worse.
Click here to read the rest of the article.
July 02, 2008
Highlights from The Evangelical Network Conference
The Evangelical Network (TEN) is a network of Bible believing churches, ministries, Christian workers and individuals bound together by a common shared faith, united in purpose and witness and established as a positive resource and support for Christian gays and lesbians.
I had the pleasure of meeting TEN President Todd Ferrell in January at the Gay Christian Network conference and found him to be of like minds in his desire to minister to those in the GLBT community who had been shunned and hurt by mainstream churches, to show them that God loves them where they are and will accept, affirm, and heal them.
TEN recently held their annual conference in Phoenix and they have posted highlights from the informative speakers and workshops offered there. The speakers included Justin Lee, Executive Director of the Gay Christian Network, GLBT ally Rev. Evelyn Schave, Anthony Venn-Brown, Co-Founder of Freedom 2[B]e, a global network of GLBT people from Pentecostal and Charismatic backgrounds based in Australia, and others.
Here is the link. I highly recommend taking time to check it out.
I had the pleasure of meeting TEN President Todd Ferrell in January at the Gay Christian Network conference and found him to be of like minds in his desire to minister to those in the GLBT community who had been shunned and hurt by mainstream churches, to show them that God loves them where they are and will accept, affirm, and heal them.
TEN recently held their annual conference in Phoenix and they have posted highlights from the informative speakers and workshops offered there. The speakers included Justin Lee, Executive Director of the Gay Christian Network, GLBT ally Rev. Evelyn Schave, Anthony Venn-Brown, Co-Founder of Freedom 2[B]e, a global network of GLBT people from Pentecostal and Charismatic backgrounds based in Australia, and others.
Here is the link. I highly recommend taking time to check it out.
MySpace Friend of the Day: Freedom From Hunger
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=69939174&MyToken=0bcf5c25-ab58-40c7-aa36-486e020a3485
The Problem: Imagine being so poor that you must struggle just to get enough good-quality food through the year to live a healthy, productive life. This devastating human experience is known as chronic hunger, and about one billion people live this way, including children, who are extremely vulnerable to illness made worse by malnutrition and who often die very young.
So what causes chronic hunger? You may be surprised to learn that it has little to do with food shortages. Global supplies of food far outstrip demand. Chronic hunger affects more than 800 million people in the world and it is, in and of itself, a potentially deadly condition.
Far more people die from causes related to chronic hunger than to famine. Chronically hungry people are exceptionally vulnerable when famine strikes. They have fewer resources to protect themselves and their families and are already living on the margin of survival.
Our Solution: Unlike famine or periodic hunger due to war or natural disasters, chronic hunger is a persistent and insidious condition that can affect generations of people in a geographic region. Those living with chronic hunger face a host of problems that go beyond lack of food or money.
To alleviate this condition, efforts must address root causes, be sustainable (that is, programs must pay for themselves), and they must be implemented by local people for the long term. Freedom from Hunger's Credit with Education program is just such a strategy. Freedom from Hunger and its local partners give small groups of women access to a loan and offers them a safe place to save a little money.
The loans are called “microcredit” because they can be as little as $5 or as much as $300. The loans transform women into entrepreneurs who run home-based businesses, such as making food products or crafts to sell. No longer forced to scrape together whatever money they can earn, these women generate a regular income, along with a new sense of accomplishment and self-esteem.
But increasing incomes is only the beginning of this self-help process. Freedom from Hunger’s Credit with Education program also provides vital education to women at their weekly meetings. As women gather to pay back their loans, they learn about health, nutrition, family planning and sound business practices. Using the additional income they earn from their businesses, the women act on this knowledge and begin to break the cycle of chronic hunger and poverty.
Women in developing countries are hardworking and eager to make life better for themselves and their families. Freedom from Hunger ensures they have the resources to do just that.
To learn more about Freedom from Hunger's programs, please go here.
The Problem: Imagine being so poor that you must struggle just to get enough good-quality food through the year to live a healthy, productive life. This devastating human experience is known as chronic hunger, and about one billion people live this way, including children, who are extremely vulnerable to illness made worse by malnutrition and who often die very young.
So what causes chronic hunger? You may be surprised to learn that it has little to do with food shortages. Global supplies of food far outstrip demand. Chronic hunger affects more than 800 million people in the world and it is, in and of itself, a potentially deadly condition.
Far more people die from causes related to chronic hunger than to famine. Chronically hungry people are exceptionally vulnerable when famine strikes. They have fewer resources to protect themselves and their families and are already living on the margin of survival.
Our Solution: Unlike famine or periodic hunger due to war or natural disasters, chronic hunger is a persistent and insidious condition that can affect generations of people in a geographic region. Those living with chronic hunger face a host of problems that go beyond lack of food or money.
To alleviate this condition, efforts must address root causes, be sustainable (that is, programs must pay for themselves), and they must be implemented by local people for the long term. Freedom from Hunger's Credit with Education program is just such a strategy. Freedom from Hunger and its local partners give small groups of women access to a loan and offers them a safe place to save a little money.
The loans are called “microcredit” because they can be as little as $5 or as much as $300. The loans transform women into entrepreneurs who run home-based businesses, such as making food products or crafts to sell. No longer forced to scrape together whatever money they can earn, these women generate a regular income, along with a new sense of accomplishment and self-esteem.
But increasing incomes is only the beginning of this self-help process. Freedom from Hunger’s Credit with Education program also provides vital education to women at their weekly meetings. As women gather to pay back their loans, they learn about health, nutrition, family planning and sound business practices. Using the additional income they earn from their businesses, the women act on this knowledge and begin to break the cycle of chronic hunger and poverty.
Women in developing countries are hardworking and eager to make life better for themselves and their families. Freedom from Hunger ensures they have the resources to do just that.
To learn more about Freedom from Hunger's programs, please go here.
Understanding Transgender Children
I missed this story on ABC's 20-20, but fortunately I saw a link to it on the Washington Blade and knew I should share the transcript with my readers:
Last year Barbara Walters spoke with the families of three transgender children who agreed to share their story. Now, one year later, "20/20" has reached out to the families again to learn what's happened since the original episode aired. All three families said that the story helped change their world for the better. Advocacy groups also report a significant surge in young transgenders coming out. Read below to find out more about a transgender youth called Jazz.
From the moment we're born, our gender identity is no secret. We're either a boy or a girl. Gender organizes our world into pink or blue. As we grow up, most of us naturally fit into our gender roles. Girls wear dresses and play with dolls. For boys, it's pants and trucks.
But for some children, what's between their legs doesn't match what's between their ears — they insist they were born into the wrong body. They are transgender children, diagnosed with gender identity disorder, and their parents insist this is not a phase.
"A phase is called a phase because it is just that. It ends. And this is not ending. This is just getting stronger," Renee Jennings told ABC News' Barbara Walters. The Jennings asked that "20/20" not disclose their real name in order to protect the identity of their transgender daughter, Jazz, who was six years old at the time of the show taping.
Most transgender children still live in the shadows, hiding from a world that sees them as freaks of nature. Rejected by their families, many grow up hating their bodies, and fall victim to high rates of depression, drug abuse, violence and suicide.
Today, hundreds of families with transgender children — who have found each other over the Internet — are taking a dramatically different course. They're allowing their children to live in the gender they identify with in order to save them from a future of heartache and pain.
Click here to read the rest of this important story.
Last year Barbara Walters spoke with the families of three transgender children who agreed to share their story. Now, one year later, "20/20" has reached out to the families again to learn what's happened since the original episode aired. All three families said that the story helped change their world for the better. Advocacy groups also report a significant surge in young transgenders coming out. Read below to find out more about a transgender youth called Jazz.
From the moment we're born, our gender identity is no secret. We're either a boy or a girl. Gender organizes our world into pink or blue. As we grow up, most of us naturally fit into our gender roles. Girls wear dresses and play with dolls. For boys, it's pants and trucks.
But for some children, what's between their legs doesn't match what's between their ears — they insist they were born into the wrong body. They are transgender children, diagnosed with gender identity disorder, and their parents insist this is not a phase.
"A phase is called a phase because it is just that. It ends. And this is not ending. This is just getting stronger," Renee Jennings told ABC News' Barbara Walters. The Jennings asked that "20/20" not disclose their real name in order to protect the identity of their transgender daughter, Jazz, who was six years old at the time of the show taping.
Most transgender children still live in the shadows, hiding from a world that sees them as freaks of nature. Rejected by their families, many grow up hating their bodies, and fall victim to high rates of depression, drug abuse, violence and suicide.
Today, hundreds of families with transgender children — who have found each other over the Internet — are taking a dramatically different course. They're allowing their children to live in the gender they identify with in order to save them from a future of heartache and pain.
Click here to read the rest of this important story.
July 01, 2008
AIDS a "Growing Global Disaster"
From the New York Times:
HIV/AIDS infection rates are growing among intravenous drug users, prostitutes and gay men around the globe but they are often viewed as outcasts and refused treatment, according to a report issued on Thursday.
The report, from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, also called on governments and humanitarian agencies to pay more attention to AIDS in their response to natural disasters and armed conflicts.
"HIV is a long-term and complex disaster on many levels ... For marginalized groups across the world -- injecting drug users, sex workers and men who have sex with men -- rates are on the increase," said the Geneva-based humanitarian agency.
Those groups, living on the fringes of society in many countries and especially in the developing world, "often face stigma, criminalization and little, if any, access to prevention and treatment services," it added.
The 248-page study, an annual World Disasters Report, gave no new figures for AIDS sufferers but cited United Nations statistics that 2.1 million died from the disease last year.
Folks, this is a serious and avoidable problem. It is almost unforgivable that people on the margins are shunned and denied services that could help them.
Anyone who has even casually read the New Testament Gospels knows that most of Jesus' personal ministry on Earth was focused on just these type of people; lepers, prostitutes, the poor and destitute.
Those who deny health services to these people are acting in clear violation of the example of Jesus and the will of God--in other words, the ultimate definition of sin.
Isn't it interesting that those discriminating against those perceived as "sinners" are, in fact, sinning by doing so. Just one of the many paradoxes of true Christian faith.
Click here to read the rest of the New York Times article.
HIV/AIDS infection rates are growing among intravenous drug users, prostitutes and gay men around the globe but they are often viewed as outcasts and refused treatment, according to a report issued on Thursday.
The report, from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, also called on governments and humanitarian agencies to pay more attention to AIDS in their response to natural disasters and armed conflicts.
"HIV is a long-term and complex disaster on many levels ... For marginalized groups across the world -- injecting drug users, sex workers and men who have sex with men -- rates are on the increase," said the Geneva-based humanitarian agency.
Those groups, living on the fringes of society in many countries and especially in the developing world, "often face stigma, criminalization and little, if any, access to prevention and treatment services," it added.
The 248-page study, an annual World Disasters Report, gave no new figures for AIDS sufferers but cited United Nations statistics that 2.1 million died from the disease last year.
Folks, this is a serious and avoidable problem. It is almost unforgivable that people on the margins are shunned and denied services that could help them.
Anyone who has even casually read the New Testament Gospels knows that most of Jesus' personal ministry on Earth was focused on just these type of people; lepers, prostitutes, the poor and destitute.
Those who deny health services to these people are acting in clear violation of the example of Jesus and the will of God--in other words, the ultimate definition of sin.
Isn't it interesting that those discriminating against those perceived as "sinners" are, in fact, sinning by doing so. Just one of the many paradoxes of true Christian faith.
Click here to read the rest of the New York Times article.
Link of the Day: James Dobson Doesn't Speak for Me
http://jamesdobsondoesntspeakforme.com/
I signed up and encourage you to consider doing the same.
James Dobson doesn't speak for me.
He doesn't speak for me when he uses religion as a wedge to divide;
He doesn't speak for me when he speaks as the final arbiter on the meaning of the Bible;
James Dobson doesn't speak for me when he uses the beliefs of others as a line of attack;
He doesn't speak for me when he denigrates his neighbor's views when they don't line up with his;
He doesn't speak for me when he seeks to confine the values of my faith to two or three issues alone;
What does speak for me is David's psalm celebrating how good and pleasant it is when we come together in unity;
Micah speaks for me in reminding us that the Lord requires us to act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with Him;
The prophet Isaiah speaks for me in his call for all to come and reason together and also to seek justice, encourage the oppressed and to defend the cause of the vulnerable;
The book of Nehemiah speaks for me in its example to work with our neighbors, not against them, to restore what was broken in our communities;
The book of Matthew speaks for me in saying to bless those that curse you and pray for those who persecute you;
The words of the apostle Paul speak for me in saying that words spoken and deeds done without love amount to nothing.
The apostle John speaks for me in reminding us of Jesus' command to love one another. The world will know His disciples by that love.
These words speak for me. But when James Dobson attacks Barack Obama, James Dobson doesn't speak for me.
Thank you for over 10,000 signatures!
I signed up and encourage you to consider doing the same.
James Dobson doesn't speak for me.
He doesn't speak for me when he uses religion as a wedge to divide;
He doesn't speak for me when he speaks as the final arbiter on the meaning of the Bible;
James Dobson doesn't speak for me when he uses the beliefs of others as a line of attack;
He doesn't speak for me when he denigrates his neighbor's views when they don't line up with his;
He doesn't speak for me when he seeks to confine the values of my faith to two or three issues alone;
What does speak for me is David's psalm celebrating how good and pleasant it is when we come together in unity;
Micah speaks for me in reminding us that the Lord requires us to act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with Him;
The prophet Isaiah speaks for me in his call for all to come and reason together and also to seek justice, encourage the oppressed and to defend the cause of the vulnerable;
The book of Nehemiah speaks for me in its example to work with our neighbors, not against them, to restore what was broken in our communities;
The book of Matthew speaks for me in saying to bless those that curse you and pray for those who persecute you;
The words of the apostle Paul speak for me in saying that words spoken and deeds done without love amount to nothing.
The apostle John speaks for me in reminding us of Jesus' command to love one another. The world will know His disciples by that love.
These words speak for me. But when James Dobson attacks Barack Obama, James Dobson doesn't speak for me.
Thank you for over 10,000 signatures!
Food and Friends Needs Your Help
Under the "Ministries We Participate Wite" section on the front page of this blog, I have listed an organization titled "Food and Friends." This is a brief description from their website:
For people living with HIV/AIDS, cancer and other life-challenging illnesses, the battle is far from over. We just make sure no one has to face it on an empty stomach.
Along with nutrition counseling, Food & Friends prepares, packages and delivers meals and groceries to more than 1,400 people living with HIV/AIDS, cancer and other life-challenging illnesses throughout Washington, DC, 7 counties of Maryland and 7 counties and 6 independent cities in Virginia. Since 1988, Food & Friends has provided food and companionship to our clients, their loved ones and caregivers.
As a Pastor-In-Training at our church, Believers Covenant Fellowship, I head up our "Helping Hands" ministry which includes collecting food to donate to Food and Friends and also helping deliver meals one Saturday a month. I believe in what they are doing, find them to be a very efficient yet genuinely caring organization, both for their clients and volunteers--I've never been more appreciated in working for anyone than for the little I directly do for Food and Friends.
I'm sharing this with you because they need some help. More from the organization's website:
Food & Friends initially received a reduction in DC Ryan White funds, a budget shortfall of $484,000. Through vigorous efforts, Food & Friends has already been able to off-set a portion of the $484,000 loss. We succeeded in obtaining a $181,000 restoration of Ryan White funding from the District of Columbia Department of Health. The Council of the District of Columbia will augment our funding by $200,000, effective October 1, 2008 (the Food & Friends fiscal year, that of the District government and the Ryan White funding cycle do not coincide). Councilmember David Catania, Chairman, Committee on Health, is supportive of our work and understands the shortfall handed to us on short notice.
Through the careful management of our personnel-related expenditures, we anticipate saving approximately $85,000 by December 31. We also plan to reduce various administrative, and other non-salary, expenditures by $27,000. To this we will add reduced expenditures for client services totaling $223,000. It is this last category of expenditures that are the most troubling, though necessary.
Although the loss of funds from public sources is exclusively from the District of Columbia Ryan White funds, impacting HIV/AIDS, we think it only fair to spread the reduced service more broadly. Most charitable funds contributed to Food & Friends are for the benefit of all clients. The limitation of reduced spending, if applied only to persons living with HIV/AIDS in the District, would truly devastate the level of care we provide. This burden must be shared by HIV/AIDS clients and those living with other life-challenging illnesses so that we may sustain our core commitment to the battle against HIV/AIDS while we continue to provide for persons with other illnesses on an equal basis.
How can you help, even if you don't live in the Washington, DC area? Here is their suggestion:
With rising fuel prices, this funding shortfall hits Food & Friends particularly hard. Our delivery vehicles drive more than 1,300 miles each day (that's more than 32,000 miles each month!), and you can help ease the burden by volunteering to deliver meals.
You can also help to offset our budget shortfall by making a tax-deductible gift to Food & Friends -- every dollar helps! To make a recurring gift, contact Alicia Toles to join Food & Friends' Bread & Butter club.
I have been truly blessed by reaching out to people who need it, both by collecting food and delivering it. I'm going to try and mobilize support within my church, but I'm also asking you to consider helping out in any way you can.
Rising expenses are hurting more people than not these days, and I realize you are probably receiving more appeals like this than you really care to. If you have received any blessing or encouragement from the work of this blog, however, supporting Food and Friends would be a good way to show your appreciation.
Thanks in advance for your thoughtful and prayerful consideration.
For people living with HIV/AIDS, cancer and other life-challenging illnesses, the battle is far from over. We just make sure no one has to face it on an empty stomach.
Along with nutrition counseling, Food & Friends prepares, packages and delivers meals and groceries to more than 1,400 people living with HIV/AIDS, cancer and other life-challenging illnesses throughout Washington, DC, 7 counties of Maryland and 7 counties and 6 independent cities in Virginia. Since 1988, Food & Friends has provided food and companionship to our clients, their loved ones and caregivers.
As a Pastor-In-Training at our church, Believers Covenant Fellowship, I head up our "Helping Hands" ministry which includes collecting food to donate to Food and Friends and also helping deliver meals one Saturday a month. I believe in what they are doing, find them to be a very efficient yet genuinely caring organization, both for their clients and volunteers--I've never been more appreciated in working for anyone than for the little I directly do for Food and Friends.
I'm sharing this with you because they need some help. More from the organization's website:
Food & Friends initially received a reduction in DC Ryan White funds, a budget shortfall of $484,000. Through vigorous efforts, Food & Friends has already been able to off-set a portion of the $484,000 loss. We succeeded in obtaining a $181,000 restoration of Ryan White funding from the District of Columbia Department of Health. The Council of the District of Columbia will augment our funding by $200,000, effective October 1, 2008 (the Food & Friends fiscal year, that of the District government and the Ryan White funding cycle do not coincide). Councilmember David Catania, Chairman, Committee on Health, is supportive of our work and understands the shortfall handed to us on short notice.
Through the careful management of our personnel-related expenditures, we anticipate saving approximately $85,000 by December 31. We also plan to reduce various administrative, and other non-salary, expenditures by $27,000. To this we will add reduced expenditures for client services totaling $223,000. It is this last category of expenditures that are the most troubling, though necessary.
Although the loss of funds from public sources is exclusively from the District of Columbia Ryan White funds, impacting HIV/AIDS, we think it only fair to spread the reduced service more broadly. Most charitable funds contributed to Food & Friends are for the benefit of all clients. The limitation of reduced spending, if applied only to persons living with HIV/AIDS in the District, would truly devastate the level of care we provide. This burden must be shared by HIV/AIDS clients and those living with other life-challenging illnesses so that we may sustain our core commitment to the battle against HIV/AIDS while we continue to provide for persons with other illnesses on an equal basis.
How can you help, even if you don't live in the Washington, DC area? Here is their suggestion:
With rising fuel prices, this funding shortfall hits Food & Friends particularly hard. Our delivery vehicles drive more than 1,300 miles each day (that's more than 32,000 miles each month!), and you can help ease the burden by volunteering to deliver meals.
You can also help to offset our budget shortfall by making a tax-deductible gift to Food & Friends -- every dollar helps! To make a recurring gift, contact Alicia Toles to join Food & Friends' Bread & Butter club.
I have been truly blessed by reaching out to people who need it, both by collecting food and delivering it. I'm going to try and mobilize support within my church, but I'm also asking you to consider helping out in any way you can.
Rising expenses are hurting more people than not these days, and I realize you are probably receiving more appeals like this than you really care to. If you have received any blessing or encouragement from the work of this blog, however, supporting Food and Friends would be a good way to show your appreciation.
Thanks in advance for your thoughtful and prayerful consideration.
June 30, 2008
I'm Not Sure If This Really Helps.....
but Washington D. C. City Councilman and former mayor Marion Barry has said he would support a bill legalizing same-sex marriage in the city if one is introduced in the council.
Many outside the city limits consider Barry, who did jail time after an arrest on drug charges in 1990 and has subsequently been charged with tax violations, drug posession, and DUI, an embarrasment to the city, but he still has strong support inside the lines, particularly in Ward 8 which he currently represents in the city council.
Barry has been considered a friend of the GLBT community, however, and I suppose influential friends are always good people to have on your side.
Many outside the city limits consider Barry, who did jail time after an arrest on drug charges in 1990 and has subsequently been charged with tax violations, drug posession, and DUI, an embarrasment to the city, but he still has strong support inside the lines, particularly in Ward 8 which he currently represents in the city council.
Barry has been considered a friend of the GLBT community, however, and I suppose influential friends are always good people to have on your side.
MySpace Friend of the Day: Raging Fire Ministries
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=183158884&MyToken=c988dc75-eb85-4ee0-b1a3-50b4bc9a33b0
Raging Fire Ministries is a non-denominational church that welcomes ALL people. We do not discriminate against race, religious background, sex, disabilities, national origin, or sexual orientation. We believe the gospel and love of Jesus Christ is for ALL people. It is our mission to love not judge. We worship every Sunday at 1:00 at Raging Fire Ministries, 606 Mercer St., Princeton, WV. You can send us a message if you would like to know more or visit our website at: www.ragingfireministries.homestead.com
Raging Fire Ministries is a non-denominational church that welcomes ALL people. We do not discriminate against race, religious background, sex, disabilities, national origin, or sexual orientation. We believe the gospel and love of Jesus Christ is for ALL people. It is our mission to love not judge. We worship every Sunday at 1:00 at Raging Fire Ministries, 606 Mercer St., Princeton, WV. You can send us a message if you would like to know more or visit our website at: www.ragingfireministries.homestead.com
I know most of us love an opportunity to get together with friends and have a good time. Many of you head out to the clubs on the weekends....looking for a place to relax, be yourselves, and enjoy friendships with those who understand who you are. Just wanted to let you know that you can find all that and more at our weekend celebration.....July 11, 12, and 13.
We are celebrating our 1 year anniversary! God has been good to us and our church and I am excited to see what's coming up in our 2nd year! We have lots of details about the weekend of events on our official website at www. ragingfireministries. homestead. com We have much planned including 3 worship services, a workshop, and a picnic on Sunday. Go to our site and check it all out! It's gonna be great! You ought to come......it would be good for you in more ways than you know! Hope to see you all soon.
Love and Prayers, Pastor Sherry
Understanding of Marriage is Evolving, Not Static
Generally those who claim moral certainty are only certain of their narrow interpreation of scripture and are often oblivious (or intentionally ignore) the history of how clergy and religious scholars have viewed issues over the years, decades, and centures.
The issue of same-sex marriage is a prime example of this practice. This article from The Guardian (London, England) adresses the ever-changing view of marriage, both in society and in churches and offers the opinion that acceptance of same-sex marriage is the next logical step in that evolution. (hat-tip to Freedom to Marry)
Our evolving understanding of what marriage is leads, of necessity, to a re-examination of who it is for. Most Christian denominations no longer teach that all sex acts must be open to the possibility of procreation (hence, contraception is permitted). Nor do they hold that infertility precludes marriage. The church has deepened its understanding of the way in which faithful couples experience and embody the love of the creator for creation. In so doing, it has put itself in a position to consider whether same-sex couples should be allowed to marry.
Opponents of gay marriage may raise other objections - that it is unsuitable, for instance, to raise children with two mothers or two fathers. I believe these arguments are easily refuted, but they are arguments about effective social policy, not sound theology. Christians who want to deny others the blessings they claim for themselves should not assume they speak for the Almighty.
Click here for the rest of the article, as the writer walks through some of the changing views of marriage over time.
The issue of same-sex marriage is a prime example of this practice. This article from The Guardian (London, England) adresses the ever-changing view of marriage, both in society and in churches and offers the opinion that acceptance of same-sex marriage is the next logical step in that evolution. (hat-tip to Freedom to Marry)
Our evolving understanding of what marriage is leads, of necessity, to a re-examination of who it is for. Most Christian denominations no longer teach that all sex acts must be open to the possibility of procreation (hence, contraception is permitted). Nor do they hold that infertility precludes marriage. The church has deepened its understanding of the way in which faithful couples experience and embody the love of the creator for creation. In so doing, it has put itself in a position to consider whether same-sex couples should be allowed to marry.
Opponents of gay marriage may raise other objections - that it is unsuitable, for instance, to raise children with two mothers or two fathers. I believe these arguments are easily refuted, but they are arguments about effective social policy, not sound theology. Christians who want to deny others the blessings they claim for themselves should not assume they speak for the Almighty.
Click here for the rest of the article, as the writer walks through some of the changing views of marriage over time.
June 29, 2008
Presbyterian USA Assembly Votes to Allow Gay Clergy
From the Christian Post:
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)'s highest governing body voted Friday in favor of a proposal that would allow for the ordination of non-celibate gays and lesbians.
The 218th General Assembly, meeting in San Jose, Calif., this week, voted 380-325 to send the overture – that would delete the requirement that clergy live in "fidelity within the covenant of marriage between and a man and a woman, or chastity in singleness" – to the denomination's 173 presbyteries for approval.
Adding to the blow to conservatives, the Assembly also adopted a supplementary authoritative interpretation of the PC(USA) constitution that would allow gay and lesbian candidates for ordination to conscientiously object the current "fidelity and chastity" standard and the local ordaining body to discern whether the declared objection is disqualifying.
The vote comes a day after the Assembly approved a proposal to begin revising the Heidelberg Catechism – a document of the Reformed Christian faith – which would include removing the reference to "homosexual perversion" among a list of sinful behaviors.
Click here to read the rest of the story. I suggest you skip the comments below--the Christian Post attracts a lot of conservative readers and I found some reactions to this story quite objectionable.
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)'s highest governing body voted Friday in favor of a proposal that would allow for the ordination of non-celibate gays and lesbians.
The 218th General Assembly, meeting in San Jose, Calif., this week, voted 380-325 to send the overture – that would delete the requirement that clergy live in "fidelity within the covenant of marriage between and a man and a woman, or chastity in singleness" – to the denomination's 173 presbyteries for approval.
Adding to the blow to conservatives, the Assembly also adopted a supplementary authoritative interpretation of the PC(USA) constitution that would allow gay and lesbian candidates for ordination to conscientiously object the current "fidelity and chastity" standard and the local ordaining body to discern whether the declared objection is disqualifying.
The vote comes a day after the Assembly approved a proposal to begin revising the Heidelberg Catechism – a document of the Reformed Christian faith – which would include removing the reference to "homosexual perversion" among a list of sinful behaviors.
Click here to read the rest of the story. I suggest you skip the comments below--the Christian Post attracts a lot of conservative readers and I found some reactions to this story quite objectionable.
Are You Sure You Will Go to Heaven When You Die?
Billy Graham addresses this question for the Christian Post:
Q: I've heard people say that all I have to do to get to heaven is to believe in Jesus. Well, I think I believe in Jesus, but down inside I'm not at all sure I'll go to heaven when I die. In fact, I kind of doubt if I will. What am I missing? - V.S.
A: I'm thankful you've taken the time to write and ask this question - because the most important decision you will ever make is where you will spend eternity. The Bible warns, "How shall we escape if we ignore such a great salvation?" (Hebrews 2:3). What you've heard is right: All we have to do to get into heaven is to believe in Jesus. Jesus Himself said, "Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life" (John 3:36). But what does it mean to "believe" in Jesus? Does that mean simply to believe that He existed, or even that He came down from heaven to save us?
No, to believe in Jesus means far more than this. It means first of all that we understand who He is: the only Son of God, sent from heaven to save us from our sins. It means we also understand what He did for us: He died on the cross to take away our sins. The Bible says, "This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins" (1 John 4:10).
But to believe in Jesus also means to trust Him as our Savior, and commit our lives to Him as our Lord. In other words, to believe in Jesus is to turn our lives over to Him - completely and without reserve. And this is what I urge you to do. By a simple prayer of faith commit your life to Jesus Christ today.
Q: I've heard people say that all I have to do to get to heaven is to believe in Jesus. Well, I think I believe in Jesus, but down inside I'm not at all sure I'll go to heaven when I die. In fact, I kind of doubt if I will. What am I missing? - V.S.
A: I'm thankful you've taken the time to write and ask this question - because the most important decision you will ever make is where you will spend eternity. The Bible warns, "How shall we escape if we ignore such a great salvation?" (Hebrews 2:3). What you've heard is right: All we have to do to get into heaven is to believe in Jesus. Jesus Himself said, "Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life" (John 3:36). But what does it mean to "believe" in Jesus? Does that mean simply to believe that He existed, or even that He came down from heaven to save us?
No, to believe in Jesus means far more than this. It means first of all that we understand who He is: the only Son of God, sent from heaven to save us from our sins. It means we also understand what He did for us: He died on the cross to take away our sins. The Bible says, "This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins" (1 John 4:10).
But to believe in Jesus also means to trust Him as our Savior, and commit our lives to Him as our Lord. In other words, to believe in Jesus is to turn our lives over to Him - completely and without reserve. And this is what I urge you to do. By a simple prayer of faith commit your life to Jesus Christ today.
June 28, 2008
Does Obama Support GLBT Equality?
Michelle Obama recently gave a speech that indicated her husband's positions were very supportive of the GLBT community.
Make no mistake, Barack Obama is much, much more of a friend to GLBT people than presumptive Republican presidential nominee John McCain. In 2006, McCain appeared in advertising supporting a state constitutional amendment in his home state of Arizona that would have banned same-sex marriage (it failed). He supports the pending ballot initiative in California that would do the same thing.
Obama has never been know as an opponent of GLBT rights, and has recently made a significant push to gain the community's support by telling them he would be an advocate for their rights.
All except one, however.
Obama supports civil unions, but not full legalization of same-sex marriage.
Until that happens, he still stands as someone that would try to lead movement toward more rights for GLBT people, but ultimately he will stop short of full equality and support reduced discrimination.
Make no mistake, Barack Obama is much, much more of a friend to GLBT people than presumptive Republican presidential nominee John McCain. In 2006, McCain appeared in advertising supporting a state constitutional amendment in his home state of Arizona that would have banned same-sex marriage (it failed). He supports the pending ballot initiative in California that would do the same thing.
Obama has never been know as an opponent of GLBT rights, and has recently made a significant push to gain the community's support by telling them he would be an advocate for their rights.
All except one, however.
Obama supports civil unions, but not full legalization of same-sex marriage.
Until that happens, he still stands as someone that would try to lead movement toward more rights for GLBT people, but ultimately he will stop short of full equality and support reduced discrimination.
Who Will Protect Us From the "Protectors"
The folks at the ACLU circulated this around:
Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to marriage.
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
JUNE 25, 2008
Mr. WICKER (for himself, Mr. VITTER, Mr. CRAIG, Mr. ROBERTS, Mr. INHOFE, Mr. BROWNBACK, Mr. ALLARD, Mr. THUNE, and Mr. SHELBY) introduced the following joint resolution; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary
JOINT RESOLUTION
Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to marriage.
Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled (two-thirds of each House concurring therein), That the following article is proposed as an amendment to the Constitution of the United States, which shall be valid to all intents and purposes as part of the Constitution when ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several States within seven years after the date of its submission by the Congress:
“ARTICLE —
“ Section 1. This article may be cited as the Marriage Protection Amendment.”
“ Section 2. Marriage in the United States shall consist only of the union of a man and a woman. Neither this Constitution, nor the constitution of any State, shall be construed to require that marriage or the legal incidents thereof be conferred upon any union other than the union of a man and a woman.”.
Yes, those are senators David Vitter, the serial-prostitute hirer, and Larry Craig, Mr. 'wide stance", who are going to protect marriage from all you gay folks.
Who is going to protect it from them?
Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to marriage.
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
JUNE 25, 2008
Mr. WICKER (for himself, Mr. VITTER, Mr. CRAIG, Mr. ROBERTS, Mr. INHOFE, Mr. BROWNBACK, Mr. ALLARD, Mr. THUNE, and Mr. SHELBY) introduced the following joint resolution; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary
JOINT RESOLUTION
Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to marriage.
Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled (two-thirds of each House concurring therein), That the following article is proposed as an amendment to the Constitution of the United States, which shall be valid to all intents and purposes as part of the Constitution when ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several States within seven years after the date of its submission by the Congress:
“ARTICLE —
“ Section 1. This article may be cited as the Marriage Protection Amendment.”
“ Section 2. Marriage in the United States shall consist only of the union of a man and a woman. Neither this Constitution, nor the constitution of any State, shall be construed to require that marriage or the legal incidents thereof be conferred upon any union other than the union of a man and a woman.”.
Yes, those are senators David Vitter, the serial-prostitute hirer, and Larry Craig, Mr. 'wide stance", who are going to protect marriage from all you gay folks.
Who is going to protect it from them?
June 27, 2008
"Gay Marriage is Good for America"
One of the last places I thought I would find an op-ed with that title was the Wall Street Journal, but here it is.
Re-enter your childhood, but imagine your first crush, first kiss, first date and first sexual encounter, all bereft of any hope of marriage as a destination for your feelings. Re-enter your first serious relationship, but think about it knowing that marrying the person is out of the question.
Imagine that in the law's eyes you and your soul mate will never be more than acquaintances. And now add even more strangeness. Imagine coming of age into a whole community, a whole culture, without marriage and the bonds of mutuality and kinship that go with it.
What is this weird world like? It has more sex and less commitment than a world with marriage. It is a world of fragile families living on the shadowy outskirts of the law; a world marked by heightened fear of loneliness or abandonment in crisis or old age; a world in some respects not even civilized, because marriage is the foundation of civilization.
This was the world I grew up in. The AIDS quilt is its monument.
Few heterosexuals can imagine living in such an upside-down world, where love separates you from marriage instead of connecting you with it. Many don't bother to try. Instead, they say same-sex couples can get the equivalent of a marriage by going to a lawyer and drawing up paperwork – as if heterosexual couples would settle for anything of the sort.
Even a moment's reflection shows the fatuousness of "Let them eat contracts." No private transaction excuses you from testifying in court against your partner, or entitles you to Social Security survivor benefits, or authorizes joint tax filing, or secures U.S. residency for your partner if he or she is a foreigner. I could go on and on.
Marriage, remember, is not just a contract between two people. It is a contract that two people make, as a couple, with their community – which is why there is always a witness. Two people can't go into a room by themselves and come out legally married. The partners agree to take care of each other so the community doesn't have to. In exchange, the community deems them a family, binding them to each other and to society with a host of legal and social ties.
That last point is so very important. When we got married, Apostle Dale brought not only the two of us into the vows, he included the congregation, our personal community that included family and friends. Not only did we commit to each other, they committed to acknowledge the sacred bond we now held and to support it any way they could.
Marriage can not be successful in a vaccum. The vaccum, rather, has been the lack of that right being afforded to same-sex couples. Praise the Lord that momentum has started to swing in favor of that changing.
Click here to read the rest of the Wall Street Journal piece.
Re-enter your childhood, but imagine your first crush, first kiss, first date and first sexual encounter, all bereft of any hope of marriage as a destination for your feelings. Re-enter your first serious relationship, but think about it knowing that marrying the person is out of the question.
Imagine that in the law's eyes you and your soul mate will never be more than acquaintances. And now add even more strangeness. Imagine coming of age into a whole community, a whole culture, without marriage and the bonds of mutuality and kinship that go with it.
What is this weird world like? It has more sex and less commitment than a world with marriage. It is a world of fragile families living on the shadowy outskirts of the law; a world marked by heightened fear of loneliness or abandonment in crisis or old age; a world in some respects not even civilized, because marriage is the foundation of civilization.
This was the world I grew up in. The AIDS quilt is its monument.
Few heterosexuals can imagine living in such an upside-down world, where love separates you from marriage instead of connecting you with it. Many don't bother to try. Instead, they say same-sex couples can get the equivalent of a marriage by going to a lawyer and drawing up paperwork – as if heterosexual couples would settle for anything of the sort.
Even a moment's reflection shows the fatuousness of "Let them eat contracts." No private transaction excuses you from testifying in court against your partner, or entitles you to Social Security survivor benefits, or authorizes joint tax filing, or secures U.S. residency for your partner if he or she is a foreigner. I could go on and on.
Marriage, remember, is not just a contract between two people. It is a contract that two people make, as a couple, with their community – which is why there is always a witness. Two people can't go into a room by themselves and come out legally married. The partners agree to take care of each other so the community doesn't have to. In exchange, the community deems them a family, binding them to each other and to society with a host of legal and social ties.
That last point is so very important. When we got married, Apostle Dale brought not only the two of us into the vows, he included the congregation, our personal community that included family and friends. Not only did we commit to each other, they committed to acknowledge the sacred bond we now held and to support it any way they could.
Marriage can not be successful in a vaccum. The vaccum, rather, has been the lack of that right being afforded to same-sex couples. Praise the Lord that momentum has started to swing in favor of that changing.
Click here to read the rest of the Wall Street Journal piece.
Link of the Day: Interstate Q
http://www.interstateq.com/
InterstateQ.com is the ONLY blog in the Carolinas bringing you regular LGBT news, views, opinions and events of the Carolinas, nation and world from a youth perspective.
InterstateQ.com serves as an internet news, views & commentary community for the masses, brought to you by journalist & activist Matt Comer & his friend & advocate Brian Murphy. The site also serves as Matt’s personal commentary site (more biographical information at MattHillComer.com).
Rev. Peter Gomes--Jesus Would Approve of Same-Sex Marriage
Rev. Peter Gomes draws from passages in the Bible to conclude that Jesus would accept gay marriage.
"Jesus approves of any institution that supports fidelity and loyalty while "recreating the kingdom of God between two individuals," Gomes concludes, and same-sex marriage falls within that category.
Click here to watch the video (hat tip to Freedom to Marry)
"Jesus approves of any institution that supports fidelity and loyalty while "recreating the kingdom of God between two individuals," Gomes concludes, and same-sex marriage falls within that category.
Click here to watch the video (hat tip to Freedom to Marry)
June 26, 2008
Making it Personal
I've often said in this space that a person's perspective on homosexuality often changes when they are directly impacted by a loved one. Here is another example of that, columnist Charles Honey of the Grand Rapids (MI) Press:
My mom always said Emily dropped from heaven. Emily's mother, Wendy, and I felt she had wisdom beyond her years, as if she came into the world already knowing things.
But what Emily did not have, despite dear friends, was one particular friend, one person who cared more about her than about anyone else in the world. That was a person I very much wanted her to meet, because I did not want Emily to go through this hard world alone.
Finally, she met that person. Her name is Nicole.
Emily and Nicki, as I call her, were married three years ago in Massachusetts. At the time, that was the only state where two women, or two men, could get married.
That changed this week, when hundreds of gay couples tied the knot in California after a court ruling that the state's ban on gay marriage violated the state constitution. The judges' 4-3 vote drew on a ruling 60 years earlier that struck down a ban on interracial marriage.
Gay marriage opponents are alarmed and swinging into action. Concerned Women for America, a public policy organization, called the California ruling "an affront to God and His plan for marriage and family." A November ballot issue approved this month would constitutionally recognize marriage only between a man and a woman.
This is where we are supposed to start arguing about the morality of gay marriage, what the Bible says about homosexuality and whether Ellen DeGeneres is the secret mastermind of the so-called "gay agenda."
Sorry, I can't go there. Yes, there are necessary debates to be had about civil rights, Scriptural interpretation and biological realities. But I'm not going to tell you what you should think. That's your job.
All I can tell you is that when this issue becomes personal, everything is different.
It's the difference between saying playground equipment should be safe, and the alarm I felt when Emily got whacked in the mouth by an iron horse-swing. (No worries, she sang in the spring concert that night with a missing front tooth.)
When you're the parent of a gay child, the difference is between deciding how you feel about this in your head, and knowing what you feel in your heart. What I feel in my heart is not a passage from Deuteronomy but the joy of a twirling little girl in a ballerina outfit, longing for someone to dance with.
I don't discount the importance of the theological issues, although if you dive into that pool you'd better be ready to do your homework. "Because the Bible says so" just doesn't cut it when many biblical scholars say the whole of Scripture says something quite different.
And if you care about this issue but aren't personally involved with it, I'd suggest this: Imagine it's personal.
Click here to read the rest of the column. (hat tip to Freedom to Marry)
My mom always said Emily dropped from heaven. Emily's mother, Wendy, and I felt she had wisdom beyond her years, as if she came into the world already knowing things.
But what Emily did not have, despite dear friends, was one particular friend, one person who cared more about her than about anyone else in the world. That was a person I very much wanted her to meet, because I did not want Emily to go through this hard world alone.
Finally, she met that person. Her name is Nicole.
Emily and Nicki, as I call her, were married three years ago in Massachusetts. At the time, that was the only state where two women, or two men, could get married.
That changed this week, when hundreds of gay couples tied the knot in California after a court ruling that the state's ban on gay marriage violated the state constitution. The judges' 4-3 vote drew on a ruling 60 years earlier that struck down a ban on interracial marriage.
Gay marriage opponents are alarmed and swinging into action. Concerned Women for America, a public policy organization, called the California ruling "an affront to God and His plan for marriage and family." A November ballot issue approved this month would constitutionally recognize marriage only between a man and a woman.
This is where we are supposed to start arguing about the morality of gay marriage, what the Bible says about homosexuality and whether Ellen DeGeneres is the secret mastermind of the so-called "gay agenda."
Sorry, I can't go there. Yes, there are necessary debates to be had about civil rights, Scriptural interpretation and biological realities. But I'm not going to tell you what you should think. That's your job.
All I can tell you is that when this issue becomes personal, everything is different.
It's the difference between saying playground equipment should be safe, and the alarm I felt when Emily got whacked in the mouth by an iron horse-swing. (No worries, she sang in the spring concert that night with a missing front tooth.)
When you're the parent of a gay child, the difference is between deciding how you feel about this in your head, and knowing what you feel in your heart. What I feel in my heart is not a passage from Deuteronomy but the joy of a twirling little girl in a ballerina outfit, longing for someone to dance with.
I don't discount the importance of the theological issues, although if you dive into that pool you'd better be ready to do your homework. "Because the Bible says so" just doesn't cut it when many biblical scholars say the whole of Scripture says something quite different.
And if you care about this issue but aren't personally involved with it, I'd suggest this: Imagine it's personal.
Click here to read the rest of the column. (hat tip to Freedom to Marry)
MySpace Friend of the Day: S.E.L.F. Group
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=199807882&MyToken=14d579f3-4040-4dc1-ad4d-b96ec778001f
Supportive Environment Lesbian Focused based in Portland, Oregon
As gay women we go through complex life challenges such as discrimination, coming out, relationships, transitioning, and learning how to accept one’s self. These experiences can be overwhelming, and appear impossible to overcome. However, we manage to make it through each and every day! Wouldn’t it be nice to know that you are not alone?
Together at SELF we are creating a social group to encourage and support our fantastic lesbian community. As we experience different trials, tribulations, and joys throughout life we desire to create/maintain a safe environment where we can discuss all diverse situations. It is difficult to be a woman in this day in age no less a woman within the gay community! Therefore, we are creating a Supportive Environment that is Lesbian Focused. This will help us as a community to identify with each other and will help us search for our true and authentic selves.
Our lives may differ but there is always someone out there that can relate. Self Group is a “safe haven” where we as women within the gay community can gather together. It is an environment free of judgment and fear where we can discuss sensitive subjects. This will be a gathering based on respect where we can converse and know that our conversations remain confidential. Our goal is that all lesbian, bi, queer, trans, and questioning women can express their true self and know they are no longer alone!
Supportive Environment Lesbian Focused based in Portland, Oregon
As gay women we go through complex life challenges such as discrimination, coming out, relationships, transitioning, and learning how to accept one’s self. These experiences can be overwhelming, and appear impossible to overcome. However, we manage to make it through each and every day! Wouldn’t it be nice to know that you are not alone?
Together at SELF we are creating a social group to encourage and support our fantastic lesbian community. As we experience different trials, tribulations, and joys throughout life we desire to create/maintain a safe environment where we can discuss all diverse situations. It is difficult to be a woman in this day in age no less a woman within the gay community! Therefore, we are creating a Supportive Environment that is Lesbian Focused. This will help us as a community to identify with each other and will help us search for our true and authentic selves.
Our lives may differ but there is always someone out there that can relate. Self Group is a “safe haven” where we as women within the gay community can gather together. It is an environment free of judgment and fear where we can discuss sensitive subjects. This will be a gathering based on respect where we can converse and know that our conversations remain confidential. Our goal is that all lesbian, bi, queer, trans, and questioning women can express their true self and know they are no longer alone!
Kay Warren: Don't Stop Caring About AIDS
From a Christianity Today essay by Kay Warren, wife of Purpose-Driven Life author Rick Warren (hat tip to the Dallas Morning News religion blog):
If you're still not sure, reluctant to give your heart and your help to those with HIV and AIDS, take a look at Mark 1:40-42 (NIV). A leper, widely assumed to have secret, unconfessed sin, braved the crushing stigma and fear his illness created to find Jesus. So ashamed of his condition, he approached our Master on his knees, begging to be healed. Jesus could have turned his back on the man, shouted accusations at his sinful state, refused to even speak to him. Instead, the Bible says he was "filled with compassion." He reached out his hand, touched the man, and healed him.
This story never fails to instruct me, to move me. Jesus had the perfect opportunity to ask this man how he became ill, but he didn't. He just helped him. I don't think it's wild speculation to assume that the man's spiritual leprosy was healed that day as well. Jesus models for us how to approach people with the leprosy of our time — HIV and AIDS. As we care for their bodies, care for the orphans and vulnerable children left behind, care for the spiritual wounds that lie hidden deep in the soul, categories and numbers become people.
People Jesus loves. People Jesus died for. People who will never know there is a Savior unless our biblical worldview includes a willingness to ask the larger questions.
Click here to read the rest of the story.
If you're still not sure, reluctant to give your heart and your help to those with HIV and AIDS, take a look at Mark 1:40-42 (NIV). A leper, widely assumed to have secret, unconfessed sin, braved the crushing stigma and fear his illness created to find Jesus. So ashamed of his condition, he approached our Master on his knees, begging to be healed. Jesus could have turned his back on the man, shouted accusations at his sinful state, refused to even speak to him. Instead, the Bible says he was "filled with compassion." He reached out his hand, touched the man, and healed him.
This story never fails to instruct me, to move me. Jesus had the perfect opportunity to ask this man how he became ill, but he didn't. He just helped him. I don't think it's wild speculation to assume that the man's spiritual leprosy was healed that day as well. Jesus models for us how to approach people with the leprosy of our time — HIV and AIDS. As we care for their bodies, care for the orphans and vulnerable children left behind, care for the spiritual wounds that lie hidden deep in the soul, categories and numbers become people.
People Jesus loves. People Jesus died for. People who will never know there is a Savior unless our biblical worldview includes a willingness to ask the larger questions.
Click here to read the rest of the story.
June 25, 2008
"Let Me Worship As I Am"
This was published in Newsweek magazine's "My Turn" section last week:
The very word "Christian" makes me wish I'd had a Druid spiritual awakening. In today's lexicon, Christian is equated with fanatics who need God to be as human as can be: male, full of pride and hate, war-loving and with a voting record that can only be described as shortsighted. For me to have found the answer to my spiritual hunger in the teachings of Jesus was at best highly inconvenient.
But Christianity comforts and fills me, as any good soup should. On the day I took the soup, there was a coincidental visit from a bishop from New Hampshire who was in L.A. and wanted to come to mass at St. Thomas the Apostle. His name is Gene Robinson, and he is the first openly gay and partnered bishop elected to an Episcopal bishopric. He is a slight man in person, soft-spoken and grinning ear to ear. He is no crusader in the usual sense of the word, but is in his own way a Joan of Arc, although he more resembles David Sedaris in a miter. I found his presence at my reception ceremony to be a special postcard from my Savior, if you'll forgive my self-centeredness and cheesy metaphor. I know that there were hundreds of other people at mass that day, many others being received or confirmed or even baptized. The presence of Bishop Robinson meant something different to every person there. But faith is ultimately selfinvolved at times, and sacraments and life are meant to be windows to God's grace.
As my partner's Mormon mother would say, I have a testimony. I was created by God, who works through all of his creation, and I've been gay as a handbag since birth. I wanted to wear my sisters' chapel veils at 2, had a crush on Hoss from "Bonanza" at 4 and have always known that God loves me and Jesus has lessons for me. And I am called to be Episcopalian and part of the Catholic faith, sure as Joan of Arc was called to her mission, although I'm not in drag. And I have faith that I will stand in front of the altar of God and commit my life to the man I love, with smells and bells and without secrecy. It is right to stand before God as I am, and speak my own truth. And I am grateful to have a model of simple, elegant defiance in the bishop from New Hampshire who happened to come to mass at my church one day.
Hoss instead of "Little Joe?" Well, I suppose beauty is in the eye of the beholder after all.
Click here to read the rest of the essay.
The very word "Christian" makes me wish I'd had a Druid spiritual awakening. In today's lexicon, Christian is equated with fanatics who need God to be as human as can be: male, full of pride and hate, war-loving and with a voting record that can only be described as shortsighted. For me to have found the answer to my spiritual hunger in the teachings of Jesus was at best highly inconvenient.
But Christianity comforts and fills me, as any good soup should. On the day I took the soup, there was a coincidental visit from a bishop from New Hampshire who was in L.A. and wanted to come to mass at St. Thomas the Apostle. His name is Gene Robinson, and he is the first openly gay and partnered bishop elected to an Episcopal bishopric. He is a slight man in person, soft-spoken and grinning ear to ear. He is no crusader in the usual sense of the word, but is in his own way a Joan of Arc, although he more resembles David Sedaris in a miter. I found his presence at my reception ceremony to be a special postcard from my Savior, if you'll forgive my self-centeredness and cheesy metaphor. I know that there were hundreds of other people at mass that day, many others being received or confirmed or even baptized. The presence of Bishop Robinson meant something different to every person there. But faith is ultimately selfinvolved at times, and sacraments and life are meant to be windows to God's grace.
As my partner's Mormon mother would say, I have a testimony. I was created by God, who works through all of his creation, and I've been gay as a handbag since birth. I wanted to wear my sisters' chapel veils at 2, had a crush on Hoss from "Bonanza" at 4 and have always known that God loves me and Jesus has lessons for me. And I am called to be Episcopalian and part of the Catholic faith, sure as Joan of Arc was called to her mission, although I'm not in drag. And I have faith that I will stand in front of the altar of God and commit my life to the man I love, with smells and bells and without secrecy. It is right to stand before God as I am, and speak my own truth. And I am grateful to have a model of simple, elegant defiance in the bishop from New Hampshire who happened to come to mass at my church one day.
Hoss instead of "Little Joe?" Well, I suppose beauty is in the eye of the beholder after all.
Click here to read the rest of the essay.
Link of the Day: JuggleCat Faith & Policy
http://www.jugglecat.blogspot.com/
One person's opinion, observations, and prayers surrounding life as a catholic, the independent sacramental movement, today's American public policy, and generally the state of the human condition.
I am a forty-something year old single guy from Long Island, New York and I am a Deacon and Seminarian in the United American Catholic Church (an independent sacramental church). I currently am the Pastor for the Emmaus Catholic Community on Long Island. You can check out Emmaus by visiting www.emmauscatholic.org. I work for Catholic Charities here on Long Island as my secular job -- I coordinate the Special Needs Housing Program -- housing for people living with HIV & AIDS, mental illness and/or addiction. AND I sell electronics at a local retailer part-time. Yes, I'm a busy guy.
One person's opinion, observations, and prayers surrounding life as a catholic, the independent sacramental movement, today's American public policy, and generally the state of the human condition.
I am a forty-something year old single guy from Long Island, New York and I am a Deacon and Seminarian in the United American Catholic Church (an independent sacramental church). I currently am the Pastor for the Emmaus Catholic Community on Long Island. You can check out Emmaus by visiting www.emmauscatholic.org. I work for Catholic Charities here on Long Island as my secular job -- I coordinate the Special Needs Housing Program -- housing for people living with HIV & AIDS, mental illness and/or addiction. AND I sell electronics at a local retailer part-time. Yes, I'm a busy guy.
James Dobson: What Was He Thinking?
I just heard the news today that Dr. James Dobson, of Focus on the Family, has criticized Barack Obama for some statements that he made in a speech in 2006. He accuses Obama of distorting the Bible and pushing a "fruitcake interpretation" of the Constitution. The last time I looked, being a child psychologist doesn't qualify anybody to judge someone else's interpretation of the Bible or the Constitution!!
Not only that, but I think Dr. Dobson is suffering from the pot calling the kettle black. In February, Dr. Dobson said that if John McCain received the Republican nomination for president, he would choose not to vote for the first time in his life. Me thinks he protested a little too much.
So, what conclusion do I draw from all of this? Dr. Dobson is being hypocritical. On the one hand, John McCain isn't conservative enough to vote for. On the other hand, Obama isn't a choice for Dr. Dobson at all. Therefore, why even get involved in this election at all, if you aren't going to vote anyway? Hello? What's the point of criticizing any candidate? You've already made it clear you aren't voting.
The only reason I can see for Dr. Dobson to start in with this criticism is that maybe Focus is losing donations from his base, so he needs to stir the pot and get the conservatives freaked out about Obama so they start the donations rolling in again. What other explanation is there?
Okay, now I'm sounding cynical, but I'm so frustrated with this man talking about morals and values when he is acting so hypocritical. Sometimes I think God would just like to take some people and shake them to their very core until they realize it isn't all about them.
Not only that, but I think Dr. Dobson is suffering from the pot calling the kettle black. In February, Dr. Dobson said that if John McCain received the Republican nomination for president, he would choose not to vote for the first time in his life. Me thinks he protested a little too much.
So, what conclusion do I draw from all of this? Dr. Dobson is being hypocritical. On the one hand, John McCain isn't conservative enough to vote for. On the other hand, Obama isn't a choice for Dr. Dobson at all. Therefore, why even get involved in this election at all, if you aren't going to vote anyway? Hello? What's the point of criticizing any candidate? You've already made it clear you aren't voting.
The only reason I can see for Dr. Dobson to start in with this criticism is that maybe Focus is losing donations from his base, so he needs to stir the pot and get the conservatives freaked out about Obama so they start the donations rolling in again. What other explanation is there?
Okay, now I'm sounding cynical, but I'm so frustrated with this man talking about morals and values when he is acting so hypocritical. Sometimes I think God would just like to take some people and shake them to their very core until they realize it isn't all about them.
June 24, 2008
How Sad...
When I heard of comedian George Carlin's passing away yesterday, I didn't think much about it because I wasn't necessarily a big fan of his. His humor was often crude and vulger. I just didn't get it.
However, today I was listening to public radio and one of the shows had an interview from 2004 with George Carlin as a tribute to him. I listened to it on a whim and it made me sad. I was sad because Mr. Carlin espoused his views on the world and life in general and it appears he was very much someone who thought that God was a concept, rather than a real person. George talked about how he believed that everything in the universe comes from the same molecular structure and so trees, people, machines, are all the same in the scheme of things. He seemed to feel that God wasn't so much to be worshipped, but to be ridiculed. George Carlin did what so many folks do...He saw religion as the same as God. He obviously had been hurt by religious people in his life and it made him bitter towards God.
He didn't realize this truth. Religion is man made, but God is real! What Mr. Carlin didn't know is that God was there for him. He loved him so much. I hope that he found the truth in his last hours, but the thought that he might not have found Jesus is just so hard for me to handle.
George didn't know that Jesus could be there for him. All he had to do was ask. He didn't know that God could heal his hurts. The fact that God was there for him just wasn't in George's consciousness.
It's so sad indeed.
However, today I was listening to public radio and one of the shows had an interview from 2004 with George Carlin as a tribute to him. I listened to it on a whim and it made me sad. I was sad because Mr. Carlin espoused his views on the world and life in general and it appears he was very much someone who thought that God was a concept, rather than a real person. George talked about how he believed that everything in the universe comes from the same molecular structure and so trees, people, machines, are all the same in the scheme of things. He seemed to feel that God wasn't so much to be worshipped, but to be ridiculed. George Carlin did what so many folks do...He saw religion as the same as God. He obviously had been hurt by religious people in his life and it made him bitter towards God.
He didn't realize this truth. Religion is man made, but God is real! What Mr. Carlin didn't know is that God was there for him. He loved him so much. I hope that he found the truth in his last hours, but the thought that he might not have found Jesus is just so hard for me to handle.
George didn't know that Jesus could be there for him. All he had to do was ask. He didn't know that God could heal his hurts. The fact that God was there for him just wasn't in George's consciousness.
It's so sad indeed.
MySpace Friend of the Day: Christians With Depression
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=118228971&MyToken=a456eab0-8cde-488a-adac-e2b1ca61da8b
My name is Melissa, I am 26 years old, have been married for almost 8 years, and am an artist/decorator. What most people don't know is that I suffer from type II Manic Depression, and anxiety disorder (for me all that means is that I am depressed a lot more than I am manic). I have attempted to take my life twice in the past two years, experimented with different kinds of self-injury as a teenager, and still struggle with thoughts and tendencies of self harm.
All that being said, I am a Christian, I love the Lord with all my heart. I have been a believer for over 6 years now, and in the beginning of my walk with the Lord his love was all that consumed me... all I wanted was to serve Him with every moment, and please Him with my heart and my life. Then something changed, a lot changed, and I was diagnosed with clinical depression.
At times my faith has been used by Satan to confuse me more, my weaknesses have often caused me to feel like I'm putting Christ on that cross all over again, day after day, and I have felt completely helpless.
I became victim of an illness, and of a type of human frailty that is too easily judged by others. No one understood what I was going through, not even me. I felt abandoned and alone. I tried talking about it to my pastor and other spiritual mentors but none were able to offer any relief. There were a few who attempted to "help" by either trying to cast out demons or by suggesting that all I needed to do was "Ask the Lord to deliver me...", "Repent of my sins.", and "Trust in the Lord." Their intentions were noble, but as a sincere believer... lets just say that their suggestions were less than welcomed, after months of tormenting myself with those very things .
Depression creeps on slowly with most people, and mine was no different. It first noticeably showed up while I was on a mission trip in Venezuela with my husband. I was at the peak of my spiritual walk, daily attempting to learn what it was to surrender myself completely to God. Of coarse, at the time we believed it was spiritual warfare, and treated it as such until it became evident that something else was going on... Ironically, it is only now, three painful years later that I can honestly say that I think I am finally starting to get the whole surrender thing. This illness changed my life in so many ways. I became alienated from my loved ones and church family. My marriage was almost completely destroyed, most of my Christian friends vanished instantly, and I had no contact at all with my already estranged family. I could not work, or interact with people on a social level at all without becoming hysterical and even more isolated. I think one of the hardest things to come to terms with was the fact that I asked everyone around me for help through fellowship, and I did not get it. I was left alone everyday, every moment, with the bitter reality of what a hopeless mess and failure I was, and of how I was undeserving of others concern. I hated myself, and could see nothing worth preserving. All I wanted to was to be in the arms of my savior... and rest in knowing that I could not do any more damage, or be a burden to anyone else.
Though I could not sense or "feel" God in my despair, I know now that he truly held me in his arms and protected me from my own intentions in that time of complete darkness, as a father protects his child. I had no relationship with my real father at all, my husbands father was in denial that anything was even wrong with me, and my spiritual father/mentor had all but completely abandoned me. I absolutely cherish the complexing moment of despair and joy as I realized that the only father I had or needed was God himself. I pray you all have such an awakening.
♥ "Blessed be the Lord,who daily bears our burden, the God who is our salvation." Psalm 68:19 ♥
My name is Melissa, I am 26 years old, have been married for almost 8 years, and am an artist/decorator. What most people don't know is that I suffer from type II Manic Depression, and anxiety disorder (for me all that means is that I am depressed a lot more than I am manic). I have attempted to take my life twice in the past two years, experimented with different kinds of self-injury as a teenager, and still struggle with thoughts and tendencies of self harm.
All that being said, I am a Christian, I love the Lord with all my heart. I have been a believer for over 6 years now, and in the beginning of my walk with the Lord his love was all that consumed me... all I wanted was to serve Him with every moment, and please Him with my heart and my life. Then something changed, a lot changed, and I was diagnosed with clinical depression.
At times my faith has been used by Satan to confuse me more, my weaknesses have often caused me to feel like I'm putting Christ on that cross all over again, day after day, and I have felt completely helpless.
I became victim of an illness, and of a type of human frailty that is too easily judged by others. No one understood what I was going through, not even me. I felt abandoned and alone. I tried talking about it to my pastor and other spiritual mentors but none were able to offer any relief. There were a few who attempted to "help" by either trying to cast out demons or by suggesting that all I needed to do was "Ask the Lord to deliver me...", "Repent of my sins.", and "Trust in the Lord." Their intentions were noble, but as a sincere believer... lets just say that their suggestions were less than welcomed, after months of tormenting myself with those very things .
Depression creeps on slowly with most people, and mine was no different. It first noticeably showed up while I was on a mission trip in Venezuela with my husband. I was at the peak of my spiritual walk, daily attempting to learn what it was to surrender myself completely to God. Of coarse, at the time we believed it was spiritual warfare, and treated it as such until it became evident that something else was going on... Ironically, it is only now, three painful years later that I can honestly say that I think I am finally starting to get the whole surrender thing. This illness changed my life in so many ways. I became alienated from my loved ones and church family. My marriage was almost completely destroyed, most of my Christian friends vanished instantly, and I had no contact at all with my already estranged family. I could not work, or interact with people on a social level at all without becoming hysterical and even more isolated. I think one of the hardest things to come to terms with was the fact that I asked everyone around me for help through fellowship, and I did not get it. I was left alone everyday, every moment, with the bitter reality of what a hopeless mess and failure I was, and of how I was undeserving of others concern. I hated myself, and could see nothing worth preserving. All I wanted to was to be in the arms of my savior... and rest in knowing that I could not do any more damage, or be a burden to anyone else.
Though I could not sense or "feel" God in my despair, I know now that he truly held me in his arms and protected me from my own intentions in that time of complete darkness, as a father protects his child. I had no relationship with my real father at all, my husbands father was in denial that anything was even wrong with me, and my spiritual father/mentor had all but completely abandoned me. I absolutely cherish the complexing moment of despair and joy as I realized that the only father I had or needed was God himself. I pray you all have such an awakening.
♥ "Blessed be the Lord,who daily bears our burden, the God who is our salvation." Psalm 68:19 ♥
Feature on Bishop Gene Robinson
Here's an odd combination-a feature on the only ordained Episcopal gay bishop in GQ magazine. Yet, thanks to a link from PageOneQ, that's what we have here. It is the most in-depth piece I've seen on the Bishop, so I thought me readers would be interested.
Let God Love Gene Robinson from GQ magazine.
Let God Love Gene Robinson from GQ magazine.
June 23, 2008
Celebrating the Right NOT to Marry
Not every gay or lesbian person who recently won the right to marry is running out to get a marriage license, but that doesn't mean they don't appreciate the right to do ss.
Here's an interesting take from the San Francisco Gay Examiner:
Hat tip to Freedom to Marry.
On Tuesday night, while gay couples across the state of California celebrated their hard-earned wedding nights, I dropped by my favorite bar in town: Truck. I thought that maybe the place would be empty, since any historic celebrations would probably take place closer to the Castro. But Truck was packed. Nobody talked about marriage.
Nobody talked about politics. The amiable and humpy owner/bartender, Paul Miller, served up as many gin and tonics as I could drink. And I chatted up a friendly young fellow who was capable of veering from stories about his outrageous past to a very smart assessment of Ian McEwan's novels.
The freedom to marry is important for two major reasons: first, because so many gay men and women want desperately to marry the people they love. And second, because those of us who choose not to marry are offered a genuine choice in the matter. (My friend Michael pointed out yet another benefit of the recent ruling by the state Supreme Court: no longer will guys be able to refer to their "husbands" unless the man in question is, in fact, a husband. The title no longer properly applies to that Craigslist hookup who's been stealing your towels for the past two weeks.)
You've probably already heard a few radical faerie types voice their concerns about "assimilation," as if gay marriage will inevitably absorb every gay person into the heterosexual Borg. But the threat of assimilation isn't meaningful unless it's a choice. I would much rather be "threatened" by the prospect of becoming a Stepford husband than be legally denied that nightmarish possibility in the first place.
So even though I don't want to participate in gay marriage at this point, I'm hardly threatened by it. If anything—judging by the Tuesday-night crowd at Truck—my life as a single gay guy in a big gay town has just been valorized a little bit more. Because frankly, it's more fun to be a gadabout when you know it's not the only legal option.
Here's an interesting take from the San Francisco Gay Examiner:
Hat tip to Freedom to Marry.
On Tuesday night, while gay couples across the state of California celebrated their hard-earned wedding nights, I dropped by my favorite bar in town: Truck. I thought that maybe the place would be empty, since any historic celebrations would probably take place closer to the Castro. But Truck was packed. Nobody talked about marriage.
Nobody talked about politics. The amiable and humpy owner/bartender, Paul Miller, served up as many gin and tonics as I could drink. And I chatted up a friendly young fellow who was capable of veering from stories about his outrageous past to a very smart assessment of Ian McEwan's novels.
The freedom to marry is important for two major reasons: first, because so many gay men and women want desperately to marry the people they love. And second, because those of us who choose not to marry are offered a genuine choice in the matter. (My friend Michael pointed out yet another benefit of the recent ruling by the state Supreme Court: no longer will guys be able to refer to their "husbands" unless the man in question is, in fact, a husband. The title no longer properly applies to that Craigslist hookup who's been stealing your towels for the past two weeks.)
You've probably already heard a few radical faerie types voice their concerns about "assimilation," as if gay marriage will inevitably absorb every gay person into the heterosexual Borg. But the threat of assimilation isn't meaningful unless it's a choice. I would much rather be "threatened" by the prospect of becoming a Stepford husband than be legally denied that nightmarish possibility in the first place.
So even though I don't want to participate in gay marriage at this point, I'm hardly threatened by it. If anything—judging by the Tuesday-night crowd at Truck—my life as a single gay guy in a big gay town has just been valorized a little bit more. Because frankly, it's more fun to be a gadabout when you know it's not the only legal option.
Link of the Day: Spiritual Fruits
http://www.spiritualfruits.com/
The Bible has long been used to defend racism and slavery, the subjugation of women, wars, and the outright slaughter of anyone who was different. The Ku Klux Klan, the reign of Hitler, the witch hunts, and the Crusades were all purported to be efforts in the name of Jesus Christ! What's more, they were vigorously supported, or even developed by, one or more major church groups. (See my Surprise! page for more about this.)
I am sickened that many churches are now using this same hypocrisy to target, abuse and harass gay people. Enough is enough!
They, and other fundamentalists, repeatedly claim that God hates gay people or expects them to "convert" to heterosexuality. This website was written to answer these claims through testimony, providing information, and inviting you to ask the Holy Spirit, not people, for the answer. It is here to provide resources for anyone struggling with this issue, regardless of your sexual orientation or gender identity.
The Bible has long been used to defend racism and slavery, the subjugation of women, wars, and the outright slaughter of anyone who was different. The Ku Klux Klan, the reign of Hitler, the witch hunts, and the Crusades were all purported to be efforts in the name of Jesus Christ! What's more, they were vigorously supported, or even developed by, one or more major church groups. (See my Surprise! page for more about this.)
I am sickened that many churches are now using this same hypocrisy to target, abuse and harass gay people. Enough is enough!
They, and other fundamentalists, repeatedly claim that God hates gay people or expects them to "convert" to heterosexuality. This website was written to answer these claims through testimony, providing information, and inviting you to ask the Holy Spirit, not people, for the answer. It is here to provide resources for anyone struggling with this issue, regardless of your sexual orientation or gender identity.
Same Sex Marriages an Inspiration?
Here's another straight guy who just doesn't get it. Eric Zorn, a columnist for the Chicago Tribune, just doesn't understand that the right-wing has explained how same-sex marriage has irrepairably damaged his and will eventually destroy society. Even worse, he says he and his presumptively straight wife are INSPIRED by them!
Nice to have you on my team Eric.
Does your marriage feel a little less special today, straight couples?
Does knowing that octogenarian lesbians Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon had a legal wedding this week in San Francisco diminish, in retrospect, your legal wedding? Does their bond profane yours?
Not at our house it doesn't. My wife and I simply feel inspired. Martin and Lyon have been a couple for 56 years—twice as long as we've been together—and we see them as role models, not harbingers of the decline of the family.
We celebrate their lifelong commitment and lasting love. We think the family could use a lot more of that and a lot less puritanical fretting about what name we put on the hopeful union of souls.
We're honored, even a little humbled, to share this institution with Martin and Lyon.
Since the comment function has been turned off on this post on the Tribune site, it's fair to assume that not everyone agreed with this view.
Click here to read the rest of the column.
Nice to have you on my team Eric.
Does your marriage feel a little less special today, straight couples?
Does knowing that octogenarian lesbians Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon had a legal wedding this week in San Francisco diminish, in retrospect, your legal wedding? Does their bond profane yours?
Not at our house it doesn't. My wife and I simply feel inspired. Martin and Lyon have been a couple for 56 years—twice as long as we've been together—and we see them as role models, not harbingers of the decline of the family.
We celebrate their lifelong commitment and lasting love. We think the family could use a lot more of that and a lot less puritanical fretting about what name we put on the hopeful union of souls.
We're honored, even a little humbled, to share this institution with Martin and Lyon.
Since the comment function has been turned off on this post on the Tribune site, it's fair to assume that not everyone agreed with this view.
Click here to read the rest of the column.
June 22, 2008
Is Anglican Split Over Gay Ordination Growing?
It would appear so according to this excerpt from a New York Times article:
Once a decade, hundreds of bishops of the international Anglican Communion meet in Canterbury, England, for the Lambeth Conference.
This summer, in the most tangible demonstration yet of the church’s divide over homosexuality, more than a quarter of the invited bishops are expected to boycott the conference and attend a rival meeting for conservative Anglicans in Jerusalem, called the Global Anglican Future Conference.
Setting the tone for the meetings that begin next week, the conservatives released a strongly worded theological manifesto on Thursday, declaring that they see no possibility for reconciliation with the Episcopal Church in the United States and the Anglican Church of Canada, which have accepted a gay bishop and same-sex unions.
The conservatives say that after years of emergency meetings and ultimatums, they have been “ignored,” “demonized” and “marginalized.” “There is no longer any hope, therefore, for a unified Communion,” the manifesto said.
The Anglican Communion is the third largest affiliation of Christian churches, with 77 million members. The Lambeth Conference is supposed to be one of the four “instruments of Communion” that bind the church together, and more than 800 bishops were invited by the archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev. Rowan Williams. But the archbishops of Nigeria, Rwanda and Uganda announced they would boycott Lambeth, (which will be held from July 20 to August 2).
He is another denomination spending a LOT of time and energy focusing on their difference rather than their commonality.....
While Satan laughs.
Once a decade, hundreds of bishops of the international Anglican Communion meet in Canterbury, England, for the Lambeth Conference.
This summer, in the most tangible demonstration yet of the church’s divide over homosexuality, more than a quarter of the invited bishops are expected to boycott the conference and attend a rival meeting for conservative Anglicans in Jerusalem, called the Global Anglican Future Conference.
Setting the tone for the meetings that begin next week, the conservatives released a strongly worded theological manifesto on Thursday, declaring that they see no possibility for reconciliation with the Episcopal Church in the United States and the Anglican Church of Canada, which have accepted a gay bishop and same-sex unions.
The conservatives say that after years of emergency meetings and ultimatums, they have been “ignored,” “demonized” and “marginalized.” “There is no longer any hope, therefore, for a unified Communion,” the manifesto said.
The Anglican Communion is the third largest affiliation of Christian churches, with 77 million members. The Lambeth Conference is supposed to be one of the four “instruments of Communion” that bind the church together, and more than 800 bishops were invited by the archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev. Rowan Williams. But the archbishops of Nigeria, Rwanda and Uganda announced they would boycott Lambeth, (which will be held from July 20 to August 2).
He is another denomination spending a LOT of time and energy focusing on their difference rather than their commonality.....
While Satan laughs.
Lots of New Resources
I've been gathering lots of websites with interesting and important information over the years to help me with the content for this blog. In wanting to make Straight, Not Narrow the most valuable resources possible, I decided to add them to the blog, over on the right hand side of each page under resources. There are several categories that I think you will find useful.
If you know of an additional resource that you think would be of interest to the readers here, please don't hesitate to e-mail me at straight_notnarrow@yahoo.com and I'll check it out.
If you know of an additional resource that you think would be of interest to the readers here, please don't hesitate to e-mail me at straight_notnarrow@yahoo.com and I'll check it out.
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