Taking a New Look
By Carol Leach, LGBT Committee
Grace UMC can be justifiably proud of doing the study work and taking the steps to become a Recon-
ciling Congregation, a member of the Reconciling Ministries Network. But our work is not done, as
reconciling is an ongoing process, a continuing education on the role of LGBT persons in our congre-
gation, and the UMC as a whole.
A recent publication, “Taking a New Look: Why Congregations Need LGBT members,” has some
interesting thoughts on the need for us to constantly look to improving our inclusion. No congregation is a monolith of one
opinion; there can be many degrees on the road to acceptance. Some will be in full agreement that reconciliation and inclusion
are absolutely necessary. Others may say that it “sounds good on paper” but don’t really know what it means to them person-
ally. Some may disagree completely and withdraw from s porting their congregation. Often the degree of acceptance is re-
lated to whether that person knows someone personally or has a family member who is LGBT.
These are some of the points the above booklet makes:
The welcome and acceptance of LGBT persons in congregations contribute to a positive image of Christianity, especially
among young people, many of whom have rejected the church.
Congregations with inclusive attitudes and practices towards LGBT people make themselves much more attractive to oth-
ers, and create an atmosphere in which church growth can happen.
Welcoming and accepting congregations become safe places for LGBT youth and for youth who are struggling with ques-
tions of sexual orientation and gender identity.
Welcoming and accepting congregations demonstrate the of expansive hospitality that God expects of us.
Welcoming and accepting congregations can stand firmly for human rights and justice not only for LGBT persons but for all
people.
That last point certainly describes the Grace congregation, as we have always supported causes related to equality and justice.
May we continue to be in that spirit and that mind.
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“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your
mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” Luke10:27