I used to be as conservative as they came. I thought of the LGBT as people living a sinful lifestyle. But while I was with the UMC, I read, thought, and grew up. Consequently, I changed my mind and I came to see them as persons deserving every human right and courtesy. I believed the church as a whole would one day come to this conclusion, too.
Standing Apart from the Crowd
I’ve been observing crowds all my life. I’ve seen them get sad, anxious, giddy, angry, reactive, and just plain stupid. People who were generally thoughtful as individuals could lose their ability to think for themselves when influenced by a crowd.
People Are Being Beaten
I’ve only just now realized that no one in the UMC is going to change their minds. The only thing I see happening is that the LGBT will be more resented afterwards.
Too Busy Living to be Held Back by Religion
If I was wrong, then God could come down, shut my mouth, and explain how could he be anything but delighted with this woman. But since he remained silent, I went with my own thoughts.
The UMC Is Up At Bat
The United Methodist Church is up at bat while the other churches haven't even made it to the ball field.
Chicken in Church (and It’s Not Potluck)
I asked for conversation and they attacked. I say they're chicken... If I were still a minister, I'd be embarrassed at their answers.
Not Experiencing God
I won't continue to pursue a relationship with someone who has ignored me my entire life.
A Challenge to My Christian Friends
How do you know that what you believe is true? Don't call me a pig and walk away. I would like some real conversation.
What It’s About
I wrote this two years ago before I gave up my work as a United Methodist minister. In view the the General Conference meeting next month, I decided to reprint it. I did not leave over the issues regarding inclusion of the LGBTQ. Rather, I left because my thoughts evolved to the level of atheism and so I could not stay. Although I no longer believe in God, I still believe in the people of the UMC. I know they are capable of doing what is right. Please, my friends, do what it is right and good.
This is what I’m thinking before the General Conference of the United Methodist Church:
It’s about right and wrong. It’s about good and evil.
It’s not about the decline of the church nor its financial welfare.
If we must choose between goodness and the preservation of an institution, even if it’s the church, then choose goodness.
When all the anger, shouting, abuse, scripture hurling, threatening, fear mongering, hateful confusion is swept aside, I want it to be clear that I said this:
Anything less than love, respect, dignity, and full recognition of rights for the LGBTQ community is wrong.
A Place at the Table
Like me he was a high mileage minister....
