This week we visit with Verdell, a minister and seminary student pursuing his doctorate in Washington D.C. We discuss his journey, why he had to leave the United Methodist Church to pursue ordination in a more inclusive denomination. Wendy weeps for the United Methodist Church of her youth and the scores of men and women who will not serve in the UMC because of a systematic policy of discrimination. Verdell introduces us to the real need that LGBTQ African Americans have to be able to worship in a space where they can be their whole, authentic selves. He suggests that the church at large needs to provide affirmation and space for Black Christians to have conversations. He emphasizes the need for traditional religious and political power to be set aside in those discussions so that people can be real and open. And he calls for the church and others to create a broader safety net for individuals who are speaking up from a less-powerful position within the context of society and church...to make it safe to speak and to be heard about what matters to them. Whether you identify as LGBTQ or not...whether you identify as Christian or not...whether or not you are black or a person of color...you will find yourself somewhere in this discussion of justice, compassion, and awareness. Happy listening and see you in church!
For more official information on "A Black Church Movement for Gay and Transgender Justice," visit ManyVoices.org