David

David and I were introduced as first year M. Div. Students. We sat together one evening in the middle of that year discussing our up-coming endorsement interviews. We were each praying for guidance. We were anticipating being asked about our stance on the recently drafted, proposed statement on human sexuality from the ELCA. David decided he would explain that his faith and theological education were leading him to advocate for the ordination of practicing homosexuals. He did so and was denied endorsement.

David was neither a homosexual nor a social activist. He was a careful student of theology and a faithful disciple who felt that he saw something wrong in the way we (the ELCA) are approaching homosexuality in the church. He would like to have been involved in the continuing reformation of our denomination.

The church has rejected the gifts which David would have brought to parish ministry, just as it has rejected the gifts of so many gay and lesbian candidates for ministry. He would have made a fine pastor. I offer this Lenten stole in his honor.

With hope in Christ,

Pastor Daryn Holdsworth
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church

Originally a part of the collection of stoles housed by ReconcilingWorks (formerly known as Lutherans Concerned), this stole was donated by them to the Shower of Stoles Project in 2015.