Hi, I'm Tim

[Cleric]

So hey, just signed up today because I'm looking for answers. A relative sent me a facebook invite about getting 1,000,000, people to support same sex marriage and I really wanted to click yes. Problem? Well I'm a youth minister who works for a conservative church. I went to a seminary school of similar beliefs, and went in the first place because of my views in high school. Through school though things changed, and I find myself grappling with a lack of faith because non-Christians are described as "Liberal Hippies" often by many Christians I know. It's painful to know that if I click yes on Facebook that my job could be at stake. I've learned of denominations who have allowed views like this openly, but I'm not interested in getting into another theology, I'm quite a fan of non-denominational churches and the freedom they offer. I have no problem with other churches, but I have my own style and its suited this way in almost every other aspect of worship.

It's ironic because I'm not gay, nor do I personally know anyone of that lifestyle, but I believe in the right of all of God's people to express love in their own way. I'm wondering what to do about this, and if anyone lives in or around Maryland thats where I'm at if they'd like to meet up and talk theology, or if they know of any opened minded churches

Oh in case you're wondering, the name "Cleric" comes from my days of playing D&D because a Cleric is a holy warrior

[keltic63]

welcome Tim!


well now, you've really gone and done it, haven't you? You've allowed yourself to consort with "teh gay" LOL

a few things about your post jump out at me
1. you say you don't know gay people. You do, they just haven't felt comfortable enough with you to clue you in.

2. "lifestyle" is an offensive way to describe our orientation. I can say from experience here that if you continue to use that word, our members will put the smackdown on you!

other than that, jump right in!

[Daniel]

Hi Tim,

Welcome.

Just curious: is that relative that sent you the invite gay? Or simply supportive? And is it really the case that if you click 'yes' that someone from your denomination could see that on your Facebook page on get you thrown out? If so, that would be something of a witch hunt, would it not?

Agree with Keltic. I am sure you know tons of gay people. They just haven't told you yet.

[BruceChris]

Tim, somehow you don't seem to be the conservative church sort of person, from what you write. As a general rule, conservatives are driven by fear, and often use fear to motivate, or manipulate others. Ultimately, it would seem to indicate a lack of faith in anything redeeming, saving, or even protective.

Liberals on the other hand, are motivated by hope, faith, and love, and they/we tend to trust if there might be something to be gained, either for oneself, or for someone else.

Christ, deliberately going into a place where he knows he will be killed, does he seem to be acting out of fear -- or hope, and love?

Originally Posted by Tim

I've learned of denominations who have allowed views like this openly, but I'm not interested in getting into another theology

Tim, you already are in another theology. You just need to get yourself sorted out, and decide whether you want to grow into a place where you can help others to grow -- with some risk, now and then, or just find a *safe* (well, itfeels safe ??) place to occupy, until you die.

Back soon, I hope, Bruce Chris

[Cleric]

Well I do apologize for my misuse of words, I didn't mean to offend. In regards to comments made though, my position would be in question at church since I am responsible for the education of children. Whether some people were sympathetic or not, it is my churches rule to operate safely in all cases, a good example being we don't have instruments because the new testament doesn't mention them at all. Is it wrong? probably not but they'd rather be safe than sorry.

The relative in question is just a supporter, but shes also not a Christian. This is my main draw back, there really doesn't seem to be a place where I can be a Christian and a supporter of people's right. I think where I'm really in trouble though is I'm also a supporter of people rights to religion as well, Christian or otherwise. I believe in peoples right to pursue their creator in whatever means they seem fit, and I'm not in a hurry to condemn people to hell because of it. So, is there really a place for me in religion?

[BruceChris]

1. Love, and teach love

2. Forgive, and teach forgiveness.

3. all else is trivial.

Peace and Love, Bruce Chris

[Pablo Rafael]

Hi Tim,

It is hard to be a supporter of gay rights and be a church worker in a conservative church. I was in that situation myself. I was a teacher in three different Lutheran Schools (LCMS) for 24 years.

I would like to say that when I "came out" as a gay person that all was well, but it did end up with me losing my job. No one had any complaint about my work or my character. They were sad to see me go, but go I must nonetheless.

You say, "There really doesn't seem to be a place where I can be a Christian and a supporter of people's rights." That is a really sad commentary on the state of Christianity isn't it? Why are Christians not the most supportive of people's rights?

You are a youth minister. You work with gay youth all of the time even if you don't know who. Many of those young people are struggling with being gay in a culture that condemns them for something they had no choice in nor control over. The trauma and suffering inflicted on gay youth by homophobic churches and families leads to a great number of suicides and a immeasurable emotional anguish. It is my opinion that those of us who are Christians have an obligation to let young gays know that they are loved and welcomed. We need to assist them in establishing healthy, loving relationships.

Sometimes doing the right thing is hard and has its cost. I have never regretted being honest with people about who I am. There was a cost, but the freedom I have felt is of much greater value. I wish that all of our young gays could have that freedom and acceptance.

I would recommend you watch two DVD's if you haven't already seen them. For the Bible Tells Me So and Fish Can't Fly.

I am now quite involved in the Episcopal church and am very much accepted and loved. I had hoped that one day I would hear from some of my former students who later in life would tell me that they were gay also. Just a few months ago that happened. I hope those students will feel comfortable about calling them Christian AND gay and not need to apologize for either.

God's blessings.

Tu Amigo, Pablo

[Gennee]

Hi Tim and welcome to the forums. I'm a transgender person who loves the Lord. Celtic is right about gay people being in your church. As far as I know I'm the only transgender person in my church. I'm sure there are more.

Gennee