Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church

As many of you know, I was privileged to be part of the Hennepin Church staff for several years. Six years into my tenure, I publicly announced my gender transition from female to male. I wasn’t quite sure what the congregation’s response would be, but I was overjoyed to receive an outpouring of support.

A reaction that I didn’t expect was that many folks I had known for ages suddenly “came out” to me for the first time! Elderly parents tearfully shared their love for their lesbian daughter. A young woman laughed as she recounted her gay brother’s penchant for practical jokes. A cousin, co-worker, grandson, friend, sister, nephew, neighbor, mother – I heard story after story of a loved one – or even the story teller themselves - who was gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender.

I was delighted to now know these people more fully, and be able to count them as allies. They had been there the whole time - I just didn’t know it! Perhaps telling my story gave others the permission – or the courage - to finally share their own experiences.

Similar situations are played out in congregations across the country, and it’s not just those in the pews who are keeping silent about their support for GLBT people. A recent study by Christian Community, entitled Silent and Undecided Friends, discovered that 68% of United Methodist clergy personally felt homosexual persons should be fully welcomed and accepted without qualification, yet only 7% publicly expressed their welcome and affirmation!

As a Reconciling United Methodist, I’m working to increase those percentages. I know firsthand how lonely and isolating it is to think that there’s no place for GLBT people in the family of God. It changed my life when I encountered others who were willing to speak openly about Christ’s inclusive love. That’s why I know in my heart that merely believing GLBT persons should be welcome in our churches is NOT enough. We all need to BELIEVE OUT LOUD!

That’s precisely why the Reconciling Ministries Network (rmnetwork.org) has developed the Believe Out Loud campaign. Based on the understanding that people don’t change - until they hear other people’s stories and get to know one another – BOL is designed to equip and empower people to build intentional relationships both among Reconciling allies, and across ideological and theological divides.  

Participants in BOL workshops nationwide are learning how to be BOLD – living as Believe Out Loud Disciples. Minnesota’s workshop, led by RMN trainer Katie Krumbach, will take place at Hennepin Church from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM on Saturday, January 16. The training and class materials are offered at no charge, and lunch will be provided. Free childcare is available with advance registration. A freewill offering will be collected.

I invite you to be BOLD and join me in becoming a Believe Out Loud Disciple. To learn more or to register for the workshop, please visit bold4mn.eventbrite.com.

Attend Workshop on Saturday, January 16

By C. Kristian Clauser
Hennepin Church Member