First Baptist Church will host another community forum this fall on Zoom. Entitled “A Place to Talk: LGBTQ+ 101 for People of Faith,” the forum offers information about LGBTQ+ community members and the issues that affect their lives. On Oct 15, Oct 22, Oct 29, and Nov 5 at 7pm, FBC will facilitate conversation with experts on topics such as LGBTQ+ education and advocacy as well as the intersections of theology and gender expression. A flyer is attached for you to share with other members of our community and beyond.
Why this forum topic?
Because we are passionate about creating spaces where all people are welcome and valued. We do this out of our understanding that each and every one of us is created in the image, or likeness of God, and therefore are beautiful and significant in God’s sight.
Unfortunately, Christianity as a whole and some churches specifically, have not shared this value and have actively shunned, rejected and marginalized some of God’s own. This lack of love and inclusion is the very opposite of the example of Jesus, who sought out the marginalized with love and compassion, intentionally naming them heirs to God’s reign of justice and love.
We seek to side with those who have been hurt and traumatized by the Christian church as a whole and individual congregations specifically. We seek to create a space where people of all faiths can get accurate information, ask questions without penalty or shame, and consider their own response to God’s beloved, regardless of the position their faith tradition has chosen. We invite people to be open to consider how to move from marginalization to inclusion, from shaming to sharing, from fear to understanding.
You are welcome in this forum, whoever you are and wherever you find yourself. We will hold the space for uncertainty while insisting on safety for all present. We will open the conversion for learning while guarding the space against dogma. We will welcome all who come in earnestness and curiosity while protecting against hate. If you are wondering, wandering, wanting to know more, this is the space for you. If you have been told you are not enough, sinful, an abomination, we are working on your behalf to make more spaces where you can find welcome and loving reception, in the true nature of God’s love and Jesus’ example.
Come curious; leave challenged. You are welcome here.