Saturday Tidings

I’ve heard some ask why is June Pride month?  Shouldn’t we celebrate all people all year round?  Yes, and, Pride month, set in June to commemorate the Stonewall Uprising, helps us stop and notice.  It helps us remember that it is not always safe or affirming for our LGBTQIA siblings to be fully themselves, in all places, at all times, including the church.  It helps us remember that our own denomination, the United Methodist Church, continues to struggle to welcome and affirm all who hear God’s call.  In our Social Principles, you’ll find, “We affirm that sexuality is God’s good gift to all persons.”  And then, later, as we talk about the requirements for ordination, you’ll find, “The practice of homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching. Therefore self-avowed practicing homosexuals are not to be certified as candidates, ordained as ministers, or appointed to serve in The United Methodist Church.”  In choosing to become Reconciling in 1992, our church has consistently stood against this exclusion, and all exclusion, based on sexual orientation, gender identity as well as race, color, national origin, status, or economic condition.  Joining our siblings in the Reconciling Movement for worship is just one of the ways we bear witness to our faith and celebrate with our LGBTQIA siblings.

I’ll “see” you on Sunday, from my screen to yours.

Heather

Together In Christ: 

We Give Thanks and Pray Together

     Let’s Celebrate 50 years of Pride Celebrations!  The first Pride march was held in New York City, June 28, 1970.

Please pray for

    Our new Seacoast District, which will include churches on Cape, all of Rhode Island, and Eastern Connecticut.  Our new District Superintendent will be the Rev. Dr. David Calhoun.

    Doris Crocker, her husband Dave, and their sons, as they wait for answers and relief for Doris.

    All pastors and churches in this time of transition.  United Methodist New Year, July 1, is the start of new appointments across the country.

    All who receive and experience the hatred of racism

    Frontline workers, who continue to work hard, long hours to keep others safe and healthy

    –Please submit all prayer requests to pastorheather@umcchurches.org.

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