News from the Gay, Lesbian, and Affirming Disciples Alliance

Contents: September 2006

How is Your Church Showing it’s Pride?

- Pamela Webb, Open & Affirming Ministry Team

GLAD Member Rev. Allen Harris, pastor of Franklin Circle Christian Church in Cleveland, OH, considers Pride in integral part of his ministry.  His ministry includes cooperation with other glbt religious and spiritual leaders in the Greater Cleveland area. Together these leaders have been participating with each other in preparing floats in the annual Pride Parade and offering opportunities for blessings to participants during events.

What else can congregations do to show their Pride? 

• National Coming Out Day services.
• Booths at community events which offer information about their O&A welcome to the community.
• Pass out bottled water stamped with information about the church's inclusive welcome during HIV/AIDS walks and other events.
• Get listed in the glbt community newspapers; also advertise your church's welcome in local magazines, newspapers and travel guides.
• Provide an O&A corner on the church website with links to helpful resources.

What has your congregation done? How are you sharing the good news that all are always welcome in your church? Let us know. Send your stories to pwebb@gladalliance.org so that the Open & Affirming Ministry Team can share your stories and ideas with others.