http://www.rmnblog.org/ Reconciling Ministries Network en-US Tue, 18 Jun 2013 12:24:02 -0500 http://www.typepad.com/ http://www.rssboard.org/rss-specification http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/an-altar-for-all-virginia-conference-of-the-united-methodist-church.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/an-altar-for-all-virginia-conference-of-the-united-methodist-church.html - by a team of Altar for All signers from the Virginia Conference of The UMC - Preface About twenty years ago, after a long study of scripture and theology[1], I came to the conclusion that homosexuality was not a sin but a sexual orientation. Although the causes of human sexual orientation have not been fully explained by science, it is clear that sexual orientation forms at a very early age and that it is seldom a matter of choice. As the Biblical authors wrote long before a scientific understanding of sexuality, it is apparent that they believed God created... Biblical Obedience Bishop Marriage Reconciling Ministries Network Tue, 18 Jun 2013 12:24:02 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/confessions-of-a-seminarian.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/confessions-of-a-seminarian.html - by anonymous Duke Divinity School student - A few months ago I made a promise to God and to myself that I would remain in the UMC ordination process as long as I could faithfully live into my calling and be faithful to who God created me to be. Early this week, I compromised both of my promises. Lord, forgive me for what I have done, and forgive your church for putting me in this position. As a Masters of Di vinity student at Duke Divinity School I am required to fulfill two field education placements during my three... Biblical Obedience Coming Out Ordination Sexual Orientation or Heterosexism Sharing your story Young Adults/Youth ~Author: Anonymous Reconciling Ministries Network Mon, 17 Jun 2013 09:44:39 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/bridge-to-everywhere.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/bridge-to-everywhere.html - by Dr. Leland Spencer - North Georgia Reconciling Service | June 12, 2013 | Matthew 20:1-16 For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. After agreeing with the laborers for the usual daily wage, he sent them into his vineyard. When he went out about nine o’clock, he saw others standing idle in the marketplace; and he said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.’ So they went. When he went out again about noon and... Reconciling Ministries Network Sat, 15 Jun 2013 08:00:00 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/mary-ann-kaiser-i-have-no-alternative.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/mary-ann-kaiser-i-have-no-alternative.html I am sorry to trouble our dear mother Church with any perplexing questions, but it presses me also, and the Church and myself must decide something. I am so thoroughly convinced that [God] has laid commands upon me in this direction, that it becomes with me really a question of my own soul's salvation. If [God] commands me to just the course I am pursuing, as only they that do [God's] commandments have right to the tree of life, I have no alternative. - Anna Oliver on seeking ordination as a woman in 1880. I recently took a United Methodist... Biblical Obedience Ordination Sexual Orientation or Heterosexism UMC Conferences ~Author: Mary Ann Kaiser Reconciling Ministries Network Fri, 14 Jun 2013 08:00:00 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/god-still-loves-you-even-if-the-church-doesnt-a-response-to-the-southern-baptist-convention.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/god-still-loves-you-even-if-the-church-doesnt-a-response-to-the-southern-baptist-convention.html - by Rob Lee - I’ve been saddened by the response of the Southern Baptist Convention in regards to lifting of the ban on gay Boy Scouts. However I applaud Gil Hanke and the Commission on United Methodist Men who opened and encouraged a conversation for Southern Baptist chartered Boy Scout troops to be welcomed within United Methodist sponsoring organizations. This is the progress we hope to see within the denomination that is trying to figure out its identity. This hits home for me. The troop I grew up in and attained my Eagle Scout in is in jeopardy of... Boy Scouts ~Author: Rob Lee Reconciling Ministries Network Thu, 13 Jun 2013 15:39:26 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/transmontana-biblical-obedience-.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/transmontana-biblical-obedience-.html - by Roberta Zenker - I had the opportunity to join the United Methodist Yellowstone Annual Conference in Billings, MT this past weekend. It was a little bit of a retreat for me, with a room full of clergy and wonderful people whom I have grown to love since becoming a member of ST Paul’s, UMC in Helena a few years ago. We sang songs at morning services and even danced a bit. And, I sold a few books. I learned a new phrase too, “biblical obedience.” When I first heard it, that same old fear came creeping up the... Biblical Obedience Sexual Orientation or Heterosexism Sharing your story Transgender Reconciling Ministries Network Tue, 11 Jun 2013 11:13:51 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/lets-talk-about-sex.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/lets-talk-about-sex.html - by anonymous United Methodist young adult worker - We need to talk about sex. Picture from www.mybrownbaby.com I’m a young adult and I work with younger adults at a United Methodist campus ministry at a big, Midwestern university. For many incoming young adults, this is their first taste of independence from their parents, siblings, childhood friends, and even hometowns. This is the testing ground of everything they’ve been taught thus far, from US History to How To Operate A Laundry Machine. And sex. In my own experience as a Midwesterner, sex is not something discussed easily. I grew up... Young Adults/Youth ~Author: Anonymous Reconciling Ministries Network Mon, 10 Jun 2013 09:09:37 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/mary-ann-kaiser-appeal-speach.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/mary-ann-kaiser-appeal-speach.html Click here to take action to support Mary Ann. Mary Ann and John requesting a Rule of Order Mary Ann Kaiser was a certified candidate for ordained ministry in The United Methodist Church. Her home district committee voted to certify her earlier this year. Her ordination journey was halted abruptly June 6, 2013 when The Southwest Texas Conference Board of Ordained Ministry recommended to the clergy of the conference to revoke her certification because Mary Ann identifies as a lesbian. On June 7, Rev. John Elford, the pastor where Mary Ann serves as Youth Director and Justice Associate at University... Ordination Sexual Orientation or Heterosexism UMC Conferences ~Author: Mary Ann Kaiser Reconciling Ministries Network Sat, 08 Jun 2013 09:07:55 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/what-are-you.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/what-are-you.html - by Rev. Vicki Flippin, reposted with permission from Church of the Village - There is a Youtube video making its way around this month. In it, a white man begins making small talk with an Asian American woman, and says to her, “Where are you from? Your English is perfect!” Annoyed, the woman responds, “San Diego. We speak English there.” This leads to a downward spiral of questioning, and—once the man gets the woman to admit that “her people” are “from” Seoul—he proceeds to bow to her and talk about Korean barbeque and kimchi. When she asks him where... Race or Racism Sharing your story ~Aurthor: Vicki Flippin Reconciling Ministries Network Thu, 06 Jun 2013 09:26:13 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/four-truths-ive-learned-from-my-open-letter-and-from-a-few-generations.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/four-truths-ive-learned-from-my-open-letter-and-from-a-few-generations.html - by Dannika Nash, reposted with permission - Two months ago, I posted on my blog an open letter to the church about the change I see coming to this nation with the passion my generation (and other generations) is developing for equality of all kinds. I was totally unprepared for the reaction: I’ve been honored and cursed for my assertions; I was fired from my Christian summer camp job, but most importantly, I’ve had a multitude of conversations with just about every perspective you can think of. I still stand outspokenly by the claims I made—I still believe the... Sharing your story Reconciling Ministries Network Tue, 04 Jun 2013 13:30:48 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/dont-let-boy-scout-troops-be-abandoned.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/06/dont-let-boy-scout-troops-be-abandoned.html - by Avery Blake Garner - Hiking along the Slyamore Creek in the Ozark Mountains. Camping at The Narrows on Greers Ferry Lake. Huddled into an old Army tent with no floor trying to stay dry during a thunderstorm in Little Rock. Building a monkey bridge on the fairgrounds in Searcy. Sleeping in converted school buses on a New Year’s Eve in 30-degree weather. Staying up too late laughing and waking up with the sun to the smell of bacon and eggs frying. I’m not entirely sure when conservative Christians decided to coopt The Boy Scouts of America. I’m just... Boy Scouts Sharing your story Reconciling Ministries Network Mon, 03 Jun 2013 11:42:09 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/even-me-how-speaking-out-as-an-ally-has-affirmed-my-faith.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/even-me-how-speaking-out-as-an-ally-has-affirmed-my-faith.html - by Holli Long - On an August afternoon last fall, I sat in front of my computer screen with tears streaming down my face. Maybe you did as well. For plastered all over my Facebook wall were photos of so many proudly eating a chicken sandwich in the name of American values, many in the name of Jesus. I’m guessing you saw them, too. Sure, you can say this was a free speech issue, but somehow I don’t remember this same general population organizing a Dixie Chicks Appreciation Day after the always vocal country music group also had exercised... Sharing your story ~Author: Holli Long Reconciling Ministries Network Thu, 30 May 2013 08:59:25 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/pastor-comes-out-to-his-bishop-for-marriage-equality.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/pastor-comes-out-to-his-bishop-for-marriage-equality.html (watch a local news interview of Rev. Stephen Heiss here) To Bishop Mark Webb, my brother in Christ! In the spirit of the One who said the truth will set us free, and emboldened by the freedom given by grace for which Jesus lived and died, I want and need to share with you how God has led me (and many of our colleagues) in ministries to help set at liberty those who have been held captive by the tyranny against people who are gay. In the last few years I have officiated at several weddings for brothers and sisters... Biblical Obedience Bishop Marriage Reconciling Ministries Network Tue, 28 May 2013 09:00:00 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/the-boy-scouts-and-the-culture-of-prejudice.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/the-boy-scouts-and-the-culture-of-prejudice.html - by Rev. Gil Caldwell - My wife Grace, an English Literature Major, is much better acquainted with the writings of William Shakespeare than am I. But in my efforts to keep up with her, I at times have quoted slices of Shakespeare, without pretending to be fully acquainted with the plays in which the quotations are found. Thus, "What Fools We Mortals Be" from Shakespeare's "A Midsummer's NIght's Dream", as spoken by the elf Puck, has been helpful and descriptive as I have observed the foolishness of racist and heterosexist words and actions. I have never suggested that there... Boy Scouts Race or Racism ~Author: Gilbert Caldwell Reconciling Ministries Network Mon, 27 May 2013 10:51:51 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/violence-should-be-concern-for-the-united-methodist-church.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/violence-should-be-concern-for-the-united-methodist-church.html - Press release by RMN and MFSA, click here to download - CHICAGO,IL and WASHINGTON, DC – May 24, 2013 – As discussions about marriage equality, inclusive Scouting, and LGBT ordination loom as annual (regional) conferences of The United Methodist Church begin to gather across the United States, the past week has shown the pervasive, violent nature of homophobia and heterosexism in the nation’s largest city. Anti-gay hate crimes are on the rise in New York City, and in one situation, after an incident of harassment which included the hurling of anti-gay slurs, one man, Mark Carson, was shot to... Biblical Obedience Bishop Bullying Hate Crime Reconciling Ministries Network Fri, 24 May 2013 11:52:27 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/celebrating-25-years-of-being-a-single-issue-church.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/celebrating-25-years-of-being-a-single-issue-church.html - by Scott Morris, pictures from SFUMC 25th Anniversary of being Reconciling - Saint Francis in the Foothills United Methodist Church has long been accused of being a single-issue church, and I want to acknowledge that the charge is true. The church had been working on this since its inception, but 25 years ago St. Francis decided to take a radical step to formalize its commitment to being a single-issue church. The nature of the single-issue charge is that St. Francis UMC welcomes lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people at the expense of all other forms of ministry. I... Reconciling Movement/Process Reconciling Ministries Network Thu, 23 May 2013 09:00:00 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/my-confirmation-journey-2013.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/my-confirmation-journey-2013.html - by Claire Young, age 11 - When my Mom told me that the Confirmation class was going to begin, I was really excited. I’ve seen other Confirmation classes at other churches and it looked fun and important. I’ve always known that the United Methodist Church was where I wanted to grow up and participate. But then it actually happened and it wasn’t as easy as I expected. Honestly? It was pretty hard. Once the decision was really up to me, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to be confirmed in the United Methodist Church because I disagree with the... Sharing your story Young Adults/Youth Reconciling Ministries Network Wed, 22 May 2013 12:43:31 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/gay-kids-cannot-become-responsible-citizens.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/gay-kids-cannot-become-responsible-citizens.html To take action in this last week before The BSA takes a vote on ending the ban on gay Scouts, call your local council: https://www.scoutsforequality.com/action/. The Boy Scouts of America will prepare every eligible youth in America to become a responsible, participating citizen and leader who is guided by the Scout Oath and Law.” – Boy Scouts of America Mission Statement - by Jarell Wilson - I never made it to actually becoming a boy scout, I stopped at Bear Scout which isn’t the lowest level, but it is certainly not the highest level (that would be Eagle). A busy... Boy Scouts Reconciling Ministries Network Mon, 20 May 2013 08:41:02 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/another-eagle-scout-speaks-out-for-equality.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/another-eagle-scout-speaks-out-for-equality.html To take action in this last week before The BSA takes a vote on ending the ban on gay Scouts, call your local council: https://www.scoutsforequality.com/action/. Dear Boy Scouts of America, I am an Eagle Scout. My father was an Eagle Scout. During my Eagle Scout interview, I was asked where I saw myself in 10 years; I answered that I hoped to have started a family, and eventually have a son or daughter joining the Scouting program. I was a bit off on my timeline, but not my desire. This year, my wife gave birth to our first child, and... Boy Scouts Reconciling Ministries Network Fri, 17 May 2013 11:38:08 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/dear-boy-scouts-of-america-i-would-applaud-boy-scouts-of-america-if-it-permitted-openly-gay-scouts-to-fully-participate-i.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/dear-boy-scouts-of-america-i-would-applaud-boy-scouts-of-america-if-it-permitted-openly-gay-scouts-to-fully-participate-i.html To take action in this last week before The BSA takes a vote on ending the ban on gay Scouts, call your local council: https://www.scoutsforequality.com/action/. Dear Boy Scouts of America, I would applaud Boy Scouts of America if it permitted openly gay scouts to fully participate in Scouts. However, the Scouts must also accept openly gay Assistant Scoutmasters and Scoutmasters. Anything less still amounts to a clear, implicit message that homosexuality is an abomination so horrible that it, alone, undermines the full value and integrity of that person. If I learned anything in Boy Scouts, it's that you earn an... Boy Scouts Reconciling Ministries Network Fri, 17 May 2013 05:45:59 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/discrimination-okay-with-firewood-not-okay-with-people.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/discrimination-okay-with-firewood-not-okay-with-people.html To take action in this last week before The BSA takes a vote on ending the ban on gay Scouts, call your local council: https://www.scoutsforequality.com/action/. May 16, 2013 Dear National Executive Committee of The Boyscouts of America, As a Cub Scout, Webelos and Boy Scout I learned valuable lessons for life from this great American institution. Just this past weekend the opportunity to camp with the local Boy Scout Troop provided me respite and time for deep reflection into the social struggles of our time. Setting up tents, collecting firewood and starting a lean two fire to cook a Pineapple... Boy Scouts Reconciling Ministries Network Thu, 16 May 2013 17:55:34 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/john-wesleys-case-for-lgbtq-ordination.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/john-wesleys-case-for-lgbtq-ordination.html - by Mary Ann Kaiser - There have always been disagreements about what it takes to be a minister. From the earliest days of our movement the faithful have been in tension with one another over the credentials necessary for a life of vocational ministry. Within our denomination alone we have changed our mind a few times ever expanding the circle of who can be ordained. Almost 60 years since we approved the ordination of women, we find ourselves again in the midst of disagreement. Should LGBTQ persons now be invited into this circle? The opinions vary widely and few... Ordination ~Author: Mary Ann Kaiser Reconciling Ministries Network Wed, 15 May 2013 10:59:24 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/talk-is-cheap-truth-is-expensive.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/talk-is-cheap-truth-is-expensive.html - by Rev. Dr. Pamela Lightsey, RMN Board of Dirctors member - Rev. Dr. Thomas Ogletree, a retired UMC elder, retired dean of Yale Divinity School of Divinity and former dean at Drew Theological Seminary, may now be the next clergy to face a church trial as a result of officiating the wedding ceremony of his son Thomas to Nicholas Haddad. While such weddings are legal in New York, they remain a chargeable offense in United Methodist Church polity, which states, “Ceremonies that celebrate homosexual unions shall not be conducted by our ministers and shall not be conducted in our... Bishop Race or Racism Trial of Tom Ogletree ~Author: Pamela Lightsey Reconciling Ministries Network Mon, 13 May 2013 10:05:00 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/one-of-my-favorite-things-about-working-in-ministry-is-the-opportunity-to-accompany-people-through-major-life-events-lik.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/one-of-my-favorite-things-about-working-in-ministry-is-the-opportunity-to-accompany-people-through-major-life-events-lik.html - by Mary Ann Kaiser - One of my favorite things about working in ministry is the opportunity to accompany people through major life events – like the union of two people, the death of a loved one, the struggle of an illness, or the inclusion of a new child into the community – and to do so with an eye towards the transcendent. The church helps us to recognize the sacredness of the secular and provides us with a community to spiritually process our journeys. Most churches are not yet in a place to recognize the “coming-out” process as... Coming Out ~Author: Mary Ann Kaiser Reconciling Ministries Network Fri, 10 May 2013 10:27:53 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/praying-in-closets.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/praying-in-closets.html - by anonymous United Methodist seminary student - Matthew 6:5-6 “And whenever you pray, do not be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, so that they may be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But whenever you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” I remember hearing these verses for the first time in my second grade Sunday school class in... Coming Out ~Author: Anonymous Reconciling Ministries Network Thu, 09 May 2013 11:16:12 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/a-love-letter-to-the-united-methodist-church.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/a-love-letter-to-the-united-methodist-church.html - by Rev. Vicki Flippin, originally posted at Church of the Village, reprinted with permission - The Rev. Dr. Thomas Ogletree, United Methodist clergy, former seminary dean, Social Ethics professor, and father. This week, the New York Times published an article about United Methodist pastor, former seminary dean, Social Ethics professor, and father, the Rev. Dr. Thomas Ogletree. Last year, Rev. Ogletree performed the wedding of his son to another man, a chargeable offense in the United Methodist Church. A complaint has been filed against him, which may lead to a church trial. Another clergy colleague and I were also... Marriage Sharing your story Trial of Tom Ogletree Reconciling Ministries Network Wed, 08 May 2013 09:06:06 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/for-such-a-time-as-this.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/for-such-a-time-as-this.html - by Rob Lee - There’s a somewhat obscure verse in the book of Esther that we have heard made into hymns, songs and catchy phrases that help us get through the day. Esther is making the tough decision as to whether or not to help the Jewish people who are set to be persecuted, she has a discussion with Mordecai, who finally in what seems like desperation declares, “For if you keep silence at such a time as this, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another quarter, but you and your father’s family will perish. Who... Trial of Tom Ogletree ~Author: Rob Lee Reconciling Ministries Network Tue, 07 May 2013 13:30:41 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/reason-and-experience-united-methodist-resources-for-correcting-our-course.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/reason-and-experience-united-methodist-resources-for-correcting-our-course.html For background: read RMN's press release and the New York Times article. - by Rev. Dr. Thomas W. Ogletree - As a lifelong United Methodist, an ordained elder in the New York Annual Conference, and a scholar specializing in theological and social ethics, I am profoundly grateful for the efforts of Reconciling Ministries Network (RMN), their affiliate Methodists in New Directions (MIND), and similar organizations throughout the denomination, to foster marriage equality for LGBT persons within United Methodist practices. Such equality is fully congruent with the inclusive vision of the “Mission and Ministry” of The United Methodist Church (cf. Part... Biblical Obedience Marriage Parents Trial of Tom Ogletree Reconciling Ministries Network Sun, 05 May 2013 21:10:54 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/why-it-matters-that-jason-collins-came-out-as-black-and-gay-rather-than-simply-gay.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/why-it-matters-that-jason-collins-came-out-as-black-and-gay-rather-than-simply-gay.html - by Saeed Jones ‏@theferocity, reprinted with permission - Image by Michael Dwyer, File / AP About 10 minutes after Jason Collins' coming-out essay in Sports Illustrated hit the internet, one thing became clear: No statement, however sincere, is sacred in the social age. Even an essay as heartfelt as Collins' — and heartfelt it is — has to endure the commentary, chatter, analysis, and white noise that are now integral to the way we experience national news. Some people, gay voices among them, found his essay to be "awkward" and "wishy-washy." Others have taken issue with his professed rejection... Coming Out Race or Racism Sexual Orientation or Heterosexism Sharing your story Reconciling Ministries Network Fri, 03 May 2013 09:29:25 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/love-the-sinner-read-a-book.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/love-the-sinner-read-a-book.html - by Holli Long - originally published on Believe Out Loud “Love the sinner. Hate the sin.” How many times do we hear this, particularly in response to the debate over homosexuality in the church? I cannot count the number of comments and conversations that begin something like this: "As Christians, we love everyone. We love the sinner, but hate the sin. Haven’t you read the following Bible verses...?" Here’s why I hate that expression. There seems to be a whole lot more hating of the sin going on. (And, yes, I’ve read those six Bible verses. I’ve also read... Scripture ~Author: Holli Long Reconciling Ministries Network Thu, 02 May 2013 13:55:30 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/thumped.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/05/thumped.html - by Holli Long - Have you ever been Bible thumped? Perhaps, recently, by one of these: Genesis 19:1-5, Leviticus 18:22, Leviticus 20:13, Corinthians 6:9-10, Timothy 1:9-10, Romans 1:21-31 I have a few bruises, too. I can just about recite those clobber verses with my eyes closed. So, yes. I’ve read them. (I think it’s safe to say we’ve pretty much all read them.) Still, often, when I write, I find these verses are thrown like stones. At me. At others. My skin is getting thicker by the day. My bruises heal. How about yours? More and more, I feel... Scripture ~Author: Holli Long Reconciling Ministries Network Wed, 01 May 2013 13:16:05 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/concern-for-the-umc.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/concern-for-the-umc.html - by an anonomous first year UM seminarian, writing for MoSAIC - Esteemed readers, every so often, I am called upon to write about queer United Methodist things for the internet. And, because I’m petty and opinionated but also afraid of confrontation, I usually take the opportunity to write about things said to me in private conversation, and why they’re wrong. So, with your permission, I’d like to take a moment to do that. I’ve spoken to several lately on the topic of the Book of Discipline, and why we must obey it even when it’s wrong (as it tends... Ordination Young Adults/Youth Reconciling Ministries Network Wed, 24 Apr 2013 08:00:00 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/the-words-in-red.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/the-words-in-red.html - by Sara Rutherford Woody - Growing up I was well-churched. We rarely missed a Sunday, rarely missed a Wednesday night youth group, and for as long as I can remember, my parents held Bible studies weekly at our house. I have always enjoyed the Old Testament. The stories never seem to get tiresome, and I am grateful to have been read them from a young age (not only because it often improves my Jeopardy score). Even in high school I remember writing a report on the book of Esther, one of my favorites, and loving the research it took... Scripture Reconciling Ministries Network Tue, 23 Apr 2013 08:00:00 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/convo-weddings.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/convo-weddings.html - by Rev. Andy Oliver - They met while in seminary. “Seeing her was the first time in my life I was taken aback by someone’s presence. I instantly thought who is this woman,” said Mary Ann Kaiser. That was the beginning of a love story between Mary Ann and Annanda—a journey that is leading them to the wedding aisle at Reconciling Ministries Network’s convocation Labor Day weekend in Maryland, where same-sex marriage is legal. “Choosing to get married isn’t all about us. It is a response to God’s call on our lives to be one,” said Annanda Barclay, second... Biblical Obedience Marriage Ordination ~Author: Andy Oliver ~Author: Mary Ann Kaiser Reconciling Ministries Network Mon, 22 Apr 2013 08:24:15 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/why-its-so-hard-to-be-quiet.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/why-its-so-hard-to-be-quiet.html - by Mandy Mizelle – When I was in second grade, two of my young colleagues continued talking when the class was supposed to be quiet. We had to prove we could collectively behave for more than 30 seconds before our teacher would let us go out to the playground. Being the goody-two-Chucks that I was, I politely asked my friends -- in whispered plea -- to be quiet. Didn’t they know some of us had a big kickball game on the line? Anyone who has ever been in second grade knows what happened next: I got in trouble for... Young Adults/Youth ~Author: Mandy Mizelle Reconciling Ministries Network Fri, 19 Apr 2013 10:38:25 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/day-of-silence-our-silence-speaks-volumes.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/day-of-silence-our-silence-speaks-volumes.html The National Day of Silence is a day of action in which students across the country vow to take a form of silence to call attention to the silencing effect of anti-LGBT bullying and harassment in schools. - by Jarell Wilson - I was never a fan of silent witnessing growing up. I was raised in a non-denominational setting which is essentially like being Baptist, but with really trendy Ikea furniture. Growing up I was groomed to believe that it was my personal responsibility to lead everyone I met to Jesus, or “sow a seed” so that someone else could... Coming Out Sharing your story Young Adults/Youth ~Author: Jarell Wilson Reconciling Ministries Network Fri, 19 Apr 2013 07:00:00 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/reconciling-faith-and-spirituality.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/reconciling-faith-and-spirituality.html - by Pastor Joseph Tolton - Hear RMN convocation speaker Pastor Joseph Tolton share his story of his work personally and professionally to reconcile faith and spirituality. Hear more of Joseph's story by registering for convocation at www.rmnetwork.org/cq13 . . . . (June 17, 2012) LGBT Faith Leaders of African Descent of New York City conceived a project in late 2010 that could increase participation in and help promote harmony between seemingly disparate communities -- the Black Church and Black Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals and Transgendered People -- and save lives. The organization selected Robert Penn productions to create visual records... Sharing your story Reconciling Ministries Network Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:13:31 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/creating-community-where-all-feel-loved.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/creating-community-where-all-feel-loved.html - by Jay Elliott - The theological and biblical arguments about homosexuality are a well-traveled area. Many of us can give basic outlines of both sides of the arguments. Perhaps what is more surprising are the objections we get from folks who share our biblical understanding. We hear things like: “Why do you want to pursue that issue? You’ll split our church!” or “Why should we become a one issue church?” or more directly, “I don’t want to become The Gay Church!” When I was asked to attend the Reconciling Ministries process coach training, I was pleased. “Finally!” I thought.... Reconciling Movement/Process Reconciling Ministries Network Wed, 17 Apr 2013 09:00:00 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/called-to-be-extremists.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/called-to-be-extremists.html - by Rev. Andy Oliver, RMN Director of Communication - Today, on the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “Letter From a Birmingham Jail” and on the morning after the act of terror at The Boston Marathon, here are words of intersection… As we hear the word “extremist” being used in the media to describe unimaginable hate, Dr. King's letter beacons us, still to be a different type of extremist. Excerpt from MLK’s Letter From a Birmingham Jail, 50 years later: Was not Jesus an extremist for love: "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good... Civil Rights Era Hate Crime ~Author: Andy Oliver Reconciling Ministries Network Tue, 16 Apr 2013 08:48:59 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/invocation.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/invocation.html - by Britt Cox - God of our statue-still moments and God of our joyous dancing, You hold us near when we encounter pain and find ourselves paralyzed And you spin us around with delight by partnering us on our journey As we come to this place, O God, may we find greater meaning, and authenticity May we see you extending your hand asking us to sit near or to wildly dance May the anxious places in our lives be quieted So that we can make room for your presence to mold and shape Our fears into hopes Our doubts... Worship Reconciling Ministries Network Tue, 16 Apr 2013 08:04:39 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/christ-general-conference.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/christ-general-conference.html - by Anne Lynch, MoSAIC Representative on RMN’s Board of Directors - Why am I a United Methodist? It’s a fair question. I didn’t grow up in this denomination. To be fair, it’s a bit of a stretch to say I grew up in the church at all; I’m more of a convert. I know what you’re thinking. A young person? Converting to United Methodism? Is cloning legal yet? Because we need more of those in this denomination! Well, maybe none of y’all reading this particular blog are thinking that, but I’ve heard enough United Methodists proclaim the denominational need... Sharing your story Young Adults/Youth Reconciling Ministries Network Mon, 15 Apr 2013 10:06:05 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/one-year-after-gener-conference-i-have-the-methodist-blues.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/one-year-after-gener-conference-i-have-the-methodist-blues.html - by Rob Lee - Garrison Keillor is coming to Appalachian State University next week, the iconic radio voice of the Prairie Home Companion has some rather insightful things to say about Methodists, including this song called The Methodist Blues: Been going to church since I was a boy. 
Now I'm old and I'm low on joy. 
I feel tired, is there something I missed? 
Or is it just that I'm Methodist? 
I got the Methodist blues. Sit in the sanctuary Sunday morn. 
Minister talks about being reborn. 
I've got a load of guilt that I've been carryin. 
I wonder... UMC Conferences ~Author: Rob Lee Reconciling Ministries Network Fri, 12 Apr 2013 10:44:34 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/coming-out-again-at-60-second-time-around-at-mason-umc.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/coming-out-again-at-60-second-time-around-at-mason-umc.html - by Judy Whittier - I rejoined my Methodist church 7 years ago. I had left as a teenager. I "came out" in my 20s (am now in my 60s) and have told a few groups at my church and have been accepted and treated no differently. This week I put my story in the church's newsletter and I expect there will be positive results. I would hope eventually that my church, Mason UMC of Tacoma, WA will become part of the reconciliation family... When my sister and I came back to Mason UMC and rejoined in June 2006. I... Coming Out Reconciling Movement/Process Sharing your story Reconciling Ministries Network Thu, 11 Apr 2013 12:35:41 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/open-door-policy.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/open-door-policy.html - by Carlos J. Rios, reposted with permission - Photo credit: Muffinn/ flickr On Saturday I met my good friend, Chris, and his fiancée Cristi, who were visiting New York. The three of us went to college together and unlike many of the people I met in college, I’ve managed to maintain in contact with them. We’ve spent New Year’s together in different cities, visited each other near and far, and I’ll be a guest at their wedding in November. To think that I would have met these people when I attended an extremely conservative, evangelical university is nothing short... Sharing your story Reconciling Ministries Network Wed, 10 Apr 2013 09:38:58 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/an-open-letter-to-the-church-from-my-generation.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/an-open-letter-to-the-church-from-my-generation.html - by Dannika Nash, reprinted with permission from her blog- Church, I got to go to the Macklemore concert on Friday night. If you want to hear about how that went, ask me, seriously, I want to talk about it until I die. The whole thing was great; but the best part was when Macklemore sang “Same Love.” Augustana’s gym was filled to the ceiling with 5,000 people, mostly aged 18-25, and decked out in thrift store gear (American flag bro-tanks, neon Nikes, MC Hammer pants. My Cowboy boyfriend wore Cowboy boots…not ironically….). The arena was brimming with excitement and... Sexual Orientation or Heterosexism Young Adults/Youth ~Author: Dannika Nash Reconciling Ministries Network Tue, 09 Apr 2013 08:00:00 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/an-open-letter-to-pastor-rick-warren-on-the-death-of-his-son-matthew.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/an-open-letter-to-pastor-rick-warren-on-the-death-of-his-son-matthew.html - by Rev. Gil Caldwell - Dear Pastor Warren, I write these words because in the past I have written other words to you. Then, I was responding to your expressed thoughts about lgbt persons and marriage equality. Many persons thought they were anti-gay and disagreed with President Obama's choosing you to deliver the invocation at his 2009 inauguration. But that was then, and this is now. Whatever differences you and I may have about gay rights are insignificant in these moments when you and your family are grieving over the death of your son Matthew. I know that your... Civil Rights Era ~Author: Gilbert Caldwell Reconciling Ministries Network Mon, 08 Apr 2013 07:58:35 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/the-slow-build.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/the-slow-build.html - by Kenneth J. Pruitt - circa 1995 In 1995, the summer I left for college, I stood in the pulpit at Tennessee Annual Conference to speak in support of a piece of legislation I’d proposed. As a young person interested in studying the claims of my denomination, I was tired of finding affirmations of all of God’s people on one page, and the systemic withholding of privileges to LGBT folks on the next page. I viewed it as hypocrisy, plain and simple. I’d proposed that the conference perform a study of sorts, documenting each mention of human sexuality in... Reconciling Ministries Network Fri, 05 Apr 2013 08:00:00 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/uniquely-maya.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/uniquely-maya.html - by Candice Czubernat - People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. - Maya Angelou As a trained therapist, I have spent many years meeting with clients. Yet occasionally, I experience doubt and insecurity. We all have days where we hear internal voices of not being good enough, or smart enough. I believe this self-doubt comes from many places, but for many people I think it comes from experiencing themselves as “different.” As a young girl, I stayed after school to be tutored in reading.... ~Author: Candice Czubernat Reconciling Ministries Network Thu, 04 Apr 2013 09:00:00 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/jesus-loves-me-a-healing-lullaby.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/jesus-loves-me-a-healing-lullaby.html - by Holli Long - In many ways, it was a typical morning. Brothers playing in the sunroom, TV on in the background, a list too long of things to be done. The daily routine interrupted when a playful hug-and-giggle fest led to an unintended crash and burn. Out came my “Mommy the Comforter” hat – a hat which I wear all too often withtwo two-year-old boys finding their way in the wide world – as I scooped up the boo-booed boy (the other escaped unscathed), did my best “accidents happen” bit in toddler terms, and brought my hurting little... Marriage Scripture ~Author: Holli Long Reconciling Ministries Network Wed, 03 Apr 2013 08:00:00 -0500 http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/hope.html http://www.rmnblog.org/2013/04/hope.html - by Mary Ann Kaiser - Last Friday, love was nailed to a cross and put to death. A three year journey of teaching, healing, and challenging the status quo ended. Hope seemed so far away. Mary followed love all the way to the cross, wailing and beating her chest, only to watch love breath its last breath. The grief on Saturday was so heavy. Peter, a devoted follower of love, denied love three times when the cost becomes too great. When all is quiet on Saturday, he is left alone with the weight of his shame and regret. Joseph,... ~Author: Mary Ann Kaiser Reconciling Ministries Network Tue, 02 Apr 2013 08:00:00 -0500