I just joined here in Chicago!

[keith]

I am glad to have found this site! A close friend of mine who is a non Christian forwarded me an email about the family outings and my church, Willow Creek Community Church which is on the list to visited this weekend! I was denied membership last year when I was asked to be in a leadership position and to become a member but was denied membership. I was already in the serving role of leadership and new there would be a problem but I didnt want to lie in the questions asked. I was denied membership and can serve in a leadership position. The elders statement is written that they beleive God loves all even homosexuals but that the acting out of it is sinful therefore they denied me. I have remained there and part of the Guest Ministry team to represent who I am and not run away from it. I have met privately with the campus pastor, Steve Wu, in Chicago as well. I do not believe that running away would further grant change in the church and that hopefully my little part will play a bigger role in the future.

I am glad to be here! Good luck Reverand Kevin Downer of the MCC church in Chicago who will be at Willow Creek and Soulfest!

Sincerely,

Keith

[matthewspeed]

Keith,

Welcome! You are probably right. Running from the church won't be helpful. Your presence is needed there. Even if you change the life of one church member, your mission was well worth it. It is so difficult for us GLBT persons to find homes in many churches. But if you ever feel it is time to leave, please do. God will show you when it is time, if that time comes.

God bless you!

-Matthew :)

[Matt Algren]

Keith, I'm so sorry you were rejected. It's hurtful, and I don't know if I could stay. Strike that, I know that I couldn't stay. Kudos to you for being a better man than I am.

Will you be there for the family outing?

[Vanessa White]

It sounds as if, at least for now, part of your calling by Christ is to represent there at your church, and to bring the word to those that need to hear it. Glad that you found us as well; we are a loving bunch and always are glad for new persons with us.

Peace to you on your journeys, Vanessa :love:

[christa08]

It sounds as if, at least for now, part of your calling by Christ is to represent there at your church, and to bring the word to those that need to hear it.

I agree with what Vanessa is saying here completely! I spent 21 years of my life in darkness. I know I needed to hear it. Thank you for being out there and being so very brave to stay in your church and spread the truth.

[Gennee]

Hi Keith and welcome to Soulforce. It's wonderful that you are remaining at your church and living what you believe. The church is having and will have more of these issues in the future. I applaud :applause: your decision to be open. Believe me, there are people there who do apprecuiate it.

Gennee

:love::pray::wave:

[tdogg]

Glad you found your way here. I was in Chicago 2006 (for the gay games), it's a beautiful city and I'm looking forward to returning some day.

If you are confident in your faith and have completely accepted yourself (and love yourself), and it sounds like that's true, then you are well equipped to handle staying in your church. I'm sorry you had to experience the rejection though. By following your heart, you will make difference. Maybe not today, or next week or even next month. But, eventually you will see a difference. And God will bless you so much for taking a stance. Praying for you! :pray::love:

Tdogg