Signature Stole (Madison Avenue Baptist Church, New York NY)

This stole from Madison Avenue Baptist Church in New York City honors the struggle for justice of all GLBT people. To highlight our hope for the future, we asked our children to create it. It is a fun, colorful piece celebrating the diversity of life. We draw your attention to the words in the center: "We are all family. It does not matter who you are, we all love each other. JOY!" We hope this stole truly does bring joy to those who see it. Most importantly, we hope it inspires the important work of creating open and affirming spaces where all may worship.

(Note: A "signature stole" is one that is covered with the signatures of both gay and straight members of a congregation, denominational governing body, or other organization. These stoles serve the dual purpose of showing support for LGBT persons, while also protecting their anonymity by including their names as "one among many".)

The Shower of Stoles began in the Presbyterian Church and then expanded into other mainline Protestant denominations, churches which are familiar with stoles. In later years items were added to the collection from faith communities whose traditions don't include stoles, but do have many other important symbols. This towel, decorated by the children of Madison Avenue Baptist Church in New York, reflects the foot washing rituals practiced in many Baptist, Mennonite and Brethren churches among others.

Madison Avenue Baptist Church is one of the older Baptist congregations in New York City. Its current building in midtown Manhattan is one of several "Skyscraper Churches" that were built in Manhattan during the 1920's and 1930's. These churches leased their prime locations to builders who in turn constructed commercial buildings that incorporated the church in its design. In 1930 Madison Avenue Baptist Church leased its property to allow a new 15-story hotel to be built, with space at its base for the church. In subsequent years, this arrangement has enabled MABC to remain a vital, inclusive presence in the heart of New York.

Martha Juillerat
Founder, Shower of Stoles Project
2006