The Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists (AWAB) is pleased to share the December 2025 edition of The Welcoming Spirit, our bi-monthly newsletter highlighting stories of LGBTQ+ inclusion, Baptist life, and the ongoing work of radical welcome across our movement.
This final issue of the year arrives during Advent—a season of anticipation, reflection, and hope—and features writing and resources that speak directly to the needs and realities of LGBTQ+ Baptists and the congregations who love them.
What You’ll Find in the December Edition
A powerful cover story by Rev. Dr. Stephen Jones
This month’s feature revisits the story of the Roman Centurion and his beloved servant, offering a compelling exploration of agape love, mutuality, and Jesus’ expansive embrace. Dr. Jones’ reflection invites readers to reconsider how Scripture reveals deep, tender, covenantal relationships—long before the church had language for LGBTQ+ lives.
A pastoral reflection from Executive Director Rev. Dr. Brian Henderson
Brian weaves together Transgender Day of Remembrance, World AIDS Day, and the spiritual significance of Advent. His message calls our movement to courage, remembrance, and a renewed commitment to communities where safety, dignity, and belonging are not optional—but essential.
AWAB’s 2025 Advent Directory
This year’s directory is our largest ever, connecting LGBTQ+ individuals and families with welcoming and affirming Advent and Christmas services across the country. It is a practical expression of what Baptist hospitality can look like when it is rooted in love.
Recommended reading for the season
This edition highlights new books, reflections, and resources from AWAB pastors, scholars, and ministry partners—including the newly released Finding a Home Among Baptists.
AWAB in the news
From national coverage of our Annual Lecture to our participation in a Supreme Court amicus brief defending LGBTQ+ youth, the December issue rounds up recent media recognizing AWAB’s advocacy and witness.
A call for writers for 2026
To expand the diversity of voices represented in The Welcoming Spirit, AWAB is inviting contributions from writers across identities, backgrounds, and Baptist traditions. The newsletter includes details for those who wish to pitch future pieces.
Read the December Issue
You can explore the full newsletter online via our flipbook below!
As we enter the final weeks of 2025, we are grateful for every congregation, pastor, lay leader, and supporter who helps make AWAB’s mission possible. May this edition of The Welcoming Spirit bring you insight, encouragement, and renewed hope for the work ahead.