Dear friends,
Merry Christmas!
It has certainly been a hectic month. In so many ways, your loving support has given us the courage and strength to carry on. We are working hard to continue on the journey that God has set before us.
Early this morning Beth announced her decision to file an appeal. It wasn't an easy or automatic decision, but after a lot of thought and prayer, Beth felt it was a worthwhile step that could help keep an important discussion alive in The United Methodist Church. We will keep you posted about the appeal process as it unfolds.
In the meantime, we are still trying to take in just how much this case has captured the attention of the nation at-large. We have begun working to reorganize our website in light of the large amount of material we have accumulated -- and in an effort to make it more useful. We would also encourage you to be thinking about how you might work within your own sphere of influence to make a difference.
- Invite neighbors, family, and/or friends to watch "The Congregation" with you this Wednesday night and have a conversation about it (PBS, 12/29/2004, 9:30pm-11:30pm, check your local listings)
- Share your own feelings within your local church community and help your community to become more welcoming. Every community is different and it is important to take it one step at a time.
- Reach out to people who may be struggling with their faith and/or sexuality in light of the church's discriminatory policies. If you, yourself, are struggling, then consider reaching out to someone who seems safe. A strong community of support is built one relationship at a time.
- Continue to pray with us, as we struggle to be faithful to the Gospel of Jesus Christ in this process and in our lives.
Peace be with you.
Beth and Chris |
