Why does it seem like the organization is bad if I indulge in practices that don’t follow the organization’s corporate standards? Now, of course, the church is a place where all sinners come to hear the Word and, if possible, sin. I want you to live according to the Word. However, from what I have read in the New Testament, there are moral standards set for leaders. If you don’t like this, you may need to reevaluate the privileges you give to your authority.
David Wheeler, Coon Rapids
I was saddened to read about Dunk’s experience as an LGBTQ person in his local church. Unfortunately, this is what too many LGBTQ Christians experience. Many churches use Biblical scholarship to recognize and affirm the beauty and holiness of all of God’s people. The United Church of Christ has affirmed marriage equality since 2005 and appointed the first openly gay Christian minister in 1972. This may not be the case in the larger Minnesota cities, but it is the same for all UCC churches in Minneapolis/St. Paul District is open and affirming to all gay, lesbian, nonbinary, and transgender people. The church I serve, Robbinsdale Parkway United Church of Christ, has been an open and affirming church since the 1990s. We practiced same-sex marriage long before state law allowed it, and LGBTQ members hold leadership positions in every field.
Jesus encouraged everyone to share their light. We are grateful for the example of our LGBTQ, cisgender, and straight brothers.
Pastor Kathy Itzin, Robbinsdale
