Are you seeing increased attention and support from other United Methodists and, if so, how has that impacted the way you’ve approached the event this year?
Weber: The number of reconciling congregations in our conference is growing and this event is a great way for churches to act upon their values. The joint pride presence allows churches of all sizes to participate and even for Reconciling United Methodists whose congregation might not be reconciling to participate.
Speer: Last year we made some small, initial attempts to include other local reconciling communities in both the parade and staffing of our booth. Through the outreach efforts of Rev. Kathleen Weber, the level of involvement by other churches has increased tremendously this year. We’re working with about 13 other communities (spanning from Bothell to Buckley) with various levels of involvement. All this brings along the benefits of more energy, more financial resources, and larger numbers of participants. We’re already planning a follow-up meeting after Pride when we’ll take stock of this years’ experience and look ahead to next year. We’ll also explore the goal of cultivating ongoing relationships enabling us to support one another in our reconciling ministries.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Speer: Admittedly my participation in Pride comes primarily from a very personal level. My life has been greatly enriched by my friendships with LGBTQIA people. These are individuals who have been teachers and sources of inspiration; they’ve shared stories and visions, and at all times have made real to me their unshaking faith in a loving God. When I participate in Pride it is because I want to celebrate side-by-side with these people whom I love and admire.
Staley: I loved the opportunity to march under one United Methodist banner. And I hope that will continue in the future. It gives many of us a sense of belonging, regardless of whether our specific congregation is an Reconciling Ministries Network affiliated church.
Weber: I was overwhelmed many times today (during the Pride Event) – holding hands with people from First Church, Foothills, and Bellevue First as we received a blessing before marching; witnessing the growing numbers of United Methodists walking together, talking together, joined in a common mission; and experiencing the connection in a powerful and important way.
It was a great day to be a United Methodist.
What an uplifting story. Thanks for sharing it.
Hooray, maybe we can stop discriminating against people. I pray we don’t find anyone else to discriminate against in the name of religion or anything else. I believe any judgement, pentenance or conversion if appropriate for anyone, should be between God and the individual, not legislated by church or government. We are called to love people, that’s all! Not say how they should live, leave that up to God and enjoy the diversity all people offer us. Talk about saving lives, true acceptance without agreeing or disagreeing about life style, will save lives. Whatever you do to these you do unto me, said Jesus. Stop crucifying Him.
As one who is perfectly satisfied with the current position of the United Methodist Church regarding the worth of homosexual people AND the statement that the practice of homosexuality is contrary to Christian teaching, I think it is GREAT that members of The United Methodist Church were present to extend hospitality to parade participants. The “Christians” who were shouting at the beginning of the parade were doing a disservice to Christ and His church.
During the last year, I have been repeatedly called “hateful” and “unloving” by other United Methodist Christians (members of the reconciling movement) on social media because of my vocal support for our current United Methodist position. I have ACTUALLY been blocked on Twitter by @RMNetwork. I wish those in the reconciling movement would demonstrate as much respect and kindness toward those who adhere to the traditional interpretation of Christian scripture as they do toward those who flaunt their sinful behavior. .
Holly, thanks for the comment. I certainly can’t comment on a situation (re: RMN) without first hand information but I think there is a great point to be made about generosity and hospitality towards those who hold differing opinions. We are all too easily tempted to put others is boxes and paint those boxes in unflattering colors.
[…] Pride Parade June 28, downtown Seattle Bake and pass out cookies to parade viewers and marchers, or Come for exercise and fellowship while marching under the UMC banner! There are many ways you can help out, check them out at: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1fQk5ArCLDo-PyQail4Ukx5dY5-0yilN5J5_kgH4ZW-E/viewform […]
[…] Pride Parade June 28, downtown Seattle Bake and pass out cookies to parade viewers and marchers, or Come for exercise and fellowship while marching under the UMC banner! There are many ways you can help out, check them out at: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1fQk5ArCLDo-PyQail4Ukx5dY5-0yilN5J5_kgH4ZW-E/viewform […]