Hi I'm Michelle

[spyceyred22]

I guess you could say that I am "coming out" of fundamental Christianity. I am a straight, married mother of 3 (but we raised 3 others). I have been a Christian for many many years, but never felt like I totally bought in to all the republican/conservative/anti-gay platform, but I was too unsure of myself to speak out. The last 10 years have been spent finding my voice against the prejudices I have witnessed for far too many years. Unfortuantely that means having a really difficult time finding a church I am comfortable with.

I also joined this forum because I am a teacher and I am undone by the anti-GLBT things that I see in the schools and all around me. I am so thrilled to find a place that welcomes all people and has some really awesome information on reconciling these lifestyles and Christianity. This is very refreshing!

[Sere-Kun]

I do not know of any liberal Christian congregations, BUT I do know of a good liberal faith that is very similar to Judaism and Christianity.

It's Unitarian Universalism if you are curious about it. It's a very life affirming religion and they support the GLBT community and religious tolerance. They believe every person is equal and that we can learn valuable things from every religion or non-religion. They allow you to believe what you really want to believe, whether you are Theist, Agnostic, or even Atheist. The goal is more along the lines of Buddhism: You choose your own spiritual path and follow it. One thing that is different about it from what you'd be used to. Originally UUism was actually two separate Christian sects. Unitarianism believed that a loving God would not send someone to hell, that you gained salvation through deeds instead of creeds. Universalism believed that Jesus died and thus we were all universally saved right across the board. They merged in 1961 and founded an autonomous faith and they draw their beliefs from many sources. We just believe that Jesus was A son of God, but not THE son of God, just a great and moral man that we should all emulate. However, you'd be more than welcome in their loving congregations. When I went there for my first time, I felt like everyone that I talked to in that church were friends that I knew for a long time.

Since I do not know any liberal congregations within the Christendom, I can only suggest something along the lines of Unitarian Universalism.

[Zerbie]

Originally Posted by spyceyred22

I guess you could say that I am "coming out" of fundamental Christianity. I am a straight, married mother of 3 (but we raised 3 others). I have been a Christian for many many years, but never felt like I totally bought in to all the republican/conservative/anti-gay platform, but I was too unsure of myself to speak out. The last 10 years have been spent finding my voice against the prejudices I have witnessed for far too many years. Unfortuantely that means having a really difficult time finding a church I am comfortable with.

I also joined this forum because I am a teacher and I am undone by the anti-GLBT things that I see in the schools and all around me. I am so thrilled to find a place that welcomes all people and has some really awesome information on reconciling these lifestyles and Christianity. This is very refreshing!

Welcome, spycey,

what a journey! I know how difficult it is to speak out or voice doubts when you're feeling unsure. That's a really hard thing to do, and no one makes it easy. Congratulations on doing such a brave thing.

You've found a great group here. Hopefully, you will find a church where you'll be comfortable, but in the interim, this is a good place to hang out and share ideas/get support/encouragement etc with fairly like-minded folk. You'll find a range of beliefs here, and a range of identities: christian and non, gay and non-gay, etc. I hope you stick around and enjoy the conversation.

Meanwhile, if you aren't already aware of it, there's a nifty thing going on right now that Soulforce is partnering on, a project with straight people talking about equality for the gay community, in several different states of the US. Check it out and see if there is one near you:
http://www.sevenstraightnights.org

Again, welcome.

[Pablo Rafael]

Hi Michelle,

Welcome to the forums. I am glad you found your way here.

I am also a teacher and recognize the value of teaching students to think for themselves and to value the differences in and contributions of others.

I am totally convinced that there is no conflict between being gay and being Christian. There are many churches that are not homophobic. I urge you to keep looking for the one that is a good fit for you.

I am a Catholic and have been accepted warmly by my congregation. That is not the case in all Catholic congregations, sad to say. I always recommend checking out Episcopal and ELCA Lutheran churches. You can always call and talk to the priest/pastor and ask if they are an open and affirming congregation. The answer you get to that question will be enlightening.

You probably didn't come here looking for advice and directions did you? Sorry about that; it is a teacher thing.

You straight allies might be the strongest force in bringing justice people of all sexual orientations.

Tu Amigo, Pablo

[Gennee]

Welcome to soulforce, Michelle. I'm happy that you haven't bought into the conservative anti gay rheotoric. I have been a born again Christian for over thirty years. I am also transgender, which I came out to only three years ago. I have reconciled my faith and my transgenderism and know that God loves me and all GLBT people. I hope that you will enjoy this site.

Gennee

[tdogg]

Originally Posted by spyceyred22

I have been a Christian for many many years, but never felt like I totally bought in to all the republican/conservative/anti-gay platform, but I was too unsure of myself to speak out.

That was my experience also, having been raised A of G since about 8 or 9 years old. Over time, I have come to many realizations. The most important of which is, I'm ok as is - God loves me and God wants me to love myself, just the way I was created.

Although I have lost some family and friend relationships, I couldn't be happier in my life. Having many more supportive friends and family helps. And of course, friends and allies like you.

I'm glad you are here. Hope you stay around and share more. I would love to hear more of your experiences!

Tdogg