Signature Stole (St. Mark Presbyterian Church, Newport Beach CA)

(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".)

St. Mark is a "More Light" congregation working for the full inclusion of LGBT persons into the life and leadership of the Presbyterian Church.  Under the banner, "An inclusive church community with open arms and open minds," St. Mark is a breath of progressive fresh air in the midst of a staunchly conservative part of Orange County, CA, and equally conservative Los Ranchos Presbytery.  From their advocacy for LGBT persons, to the many-faceted activities of their Peace and Justice Commission and the environmental work of the "St. Mark Ecophilians," this little church is unstoppable.

Martha Juillerat
Founder, Shower of Stoles Project
2006