LGBTQ+ Only Connect

I recently met with a local LGTQ+ leader; to see how he viewed Christianity, and build bridges across the cultural divide. His main gripe was, understandably, the mental illness among gay people, including the amount of self-harm, plus the discrimination and violence they experience. Conservative Christians, he thought, contribute to this anti-gay feeling in society; so he wondered if we could change our theology, and accept same-sex marriage?

At a recent Street Level Theology session (our monthly theology class at KCBC), on same-sex relationships, someone asked: although we have this conservative theology, can we avoid exacerbating the prejudice and problems faced by gay people? It requires, I think, intentional, concrete, actions, rather than well-meaning, but vague, sentiments of sympathy.

Faith is seen in deeds. For example, Andrew Marin’s book, ‘Love is an Orientation’, and his ministry, The Marin Foundation, are good examples, of how to non-judgmentally connect evangelical and gay communities. Similarly, Steiger Mission recently held an art exhibition, and debate, in a gay nightclub in Wroclaw, Poland.

So, while not claiming complete answers, here’s some practical missional ventures, which have involved myself. 

Authenticity 
While each person must be answerable to their own conscience, I’ve found it important to be open about my own same-sex attraction. This enables me to minister, from a position of understanding, and without fearing exposure. 

Welcome 
A lesbian couple began attending church. When asked why they came to a church which was conservative on sexuality, they made two replies: they’d tried a ‘gay church, but this hadn’t talked about Jesus; plus they’d been welcomed, invited to dinner, and people simply hadn’t been ‘mean’ – not too much to ask, is it? 

Outreach

I’ve started a support group, under the aegis of the True Freedom Trust, to support Christians who experience same-sex attraction. Often we experience a double rejection; from conservative Christians who judge us, and from liberals who think we’re self-hating individuals who should just enjoy their sexuality. So this group needs intentional support. 

Advocacy 
Evangelicals are quick to condemn, but not to defend against injustice. At work, my wife supported the petition of a gay teacher, being bullied by a homophobic staff member. 

Challenge 
I’ve had more trouble from ultra-conservative Christians, than liberals. We must challenge the prejudice from traditionalists, who are still excluding those struggling with temptation. 

Dialogue 
I have talked with leaders of a local affirming church. We need to communicate with Christians who differ from us, while not sacrificing our Biblical position. This is hard, but it’s not our job to judge others’ salvation, even as we practice church discipline within our own congregations. 

Hospitality 
We rent space to a gay choir in our church building. This is an important sign of practical love, in a city where community space is scarce.

Some people might criticise these moves for not producing conversions. But while there remain separate silos, and suspicion between the Evangelical and LGBTQ+ communities, there certainly won’t be any. To quote Brian McLaren: without conversations there won’t be any conversions.