Thoughts from a Recent Speaking Engagement

Here is some feedback from a recent presentation we gave:

“Your stories and vulnerability were so appreciated. Thank you for joining us.”

“It was such a gift to get to share space & hear part of your stories. Thank you for your generosity, warmth & loving example!!”

“Wow, thank you both so very much for coming to be with us. For your vulnerability, openness & grace. Beyond grateful & inspired by you & all WGA does!”

Where Grace Abounds was recently invited to speak at a local church that is considering if they would like to become an “affirming” congregation. We were brought in to share our perspective and our stories. This wasn’t an adversarial presentation; it was a sincere group of people wanting to be informed as they move forward. They were also inviting others with different perspectives to share at later times as well.

This isn’t the first time we’ve been asked to participate in a process such as this. Honestly, I’m glad when churches take the time to study scripture and also listen to the stories of those directly impacted. Things get complicated when we realize the impact theological positions can have on individuals. But I believe that we need to consider this when taking positions on issues such as these. It is not easy!

I think that many who enter this learning process are hopeful that they can somehow create a space where anyone can feel welcome, whether they have an affirming theology or not. Unfortunately, what often happens is these discussions lead to division and a shift in who participates in the church community.

Despite best efforts, it is incredibly difficult to settle into a “middle” place that is satisfactory to everyone. Typically, a church who adopts a more traditional position with regards to sexuality (marriage is between 1 man and 1 woman) will lose those who have are looking for an affirming congregation. If a church adopts an affirming position (a belief that scripture does not prohibit same sex relationships/marriage), then those who have a traditional sexual ethic will likely move on to another church. Perhaps there is a church out there who has managed to navigate these waters, but I have yet to see it.

We certainly appreciate your prayers as we step into these spaces, offering our stories and perspective. It is an honor to share what God has done and is doing at WGA and in our lives personally. We don’t have big, dramatic stories. Just stories of what living out our lives and convictions with grace and truth has looked like.

Please also pray for the many churches who are asking questions and considering how God would have them address LGBTQ+ issues within their congregations and denominations.