Dublin Core
Title
Second Stone #46 - May/June 1996
Issue Item Type Metadata
Issue Number
46
Publication Year
1996
Publication Date
May/June 1996
Text
THE NA TldNAL NEWSPAPER FOR GAY/LESBIAN/BISEX U AL CHRIST I ANS 2.95
Vote in favor of gays increases by 15 percent since last meeting
Gay ~gain ground at United
Methodist General Conference
- From Associated Press,
United Methodist News Service,
Ecumenical News International,
and other reports
· THE NUMBER OF delegates to the
United Methodist Church's General
Conference who believe that language
in the denomination's Book of
Discipline that describes homosexuality
as "incompatible with Christian
teaching" should be overtumed
has increased by 15 percent in four
years, indicating that gay and lesbian
act ivists have gained substan°
tial ground since the church's 1992
General Confenince.
In denominations where church
activists are struggling for ordination
of non-celibate gays and lesbians, the
trend places the United Methodist
Church behind the Episcopal Church
and ahead of the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America and the ·
Presbyterian Church (USA) as the
next likely church to approve ordination
of non-celibate gays and lesbians.
The United Church of Christ is the
only major Protestant denomination to
permit the ordination of non-celibate
gays.
Issues surrounding the place of gays
and lesbians in the church dominated
last month's church-wide meeting of
the 8.6 million-member United Methodist
Church, the second largest Protestant-
church in the United States -
exceeded in membership only by the
Southern Baptist Convention . The 10-
day international conventio n drew
1,000 del egates, some from as far
away as Europe and Africa. Half of
those attending the meeting were lay
people and the rest were clergy. More
than 3,000 proposals were submitted
Protesters outnumber participants
20-1 at anti-gay lecture
MADISON, Wis. (AP) ~ Protesters
who organized a "March for Tolerance"
outnumbered by more than 20-1
those who came to a Madison church
to hear the message of a man who
contends gays inspired the Nazi
.movement.
Police said fewer than 20 people
showed up at Trinity Evangelical
Fellowship Church April 12 to hear
Scott Lively, author , of "The Pink
Swastika: Homosexuality in the
Nazi Party."
Police allowed about 100 protesters
in the church, while an estimated 300
P.O.Box 8340
New Orleans, LA 70182
ADDRESS CORRECTION
REQUESTED
TIME DATED MATERIAL
DONOTDELAY
remained outside . Ralph Ovadal,
whose Wisconsin Christians United
sponsored the lecture, asked police to
remove one man who held up a sign
and shouted inside the church .
The church's pastor, Ron Greer, is a
Madison firefighter accused of distributing
anti -g ay pamphlets on the
job. Greer faces possible disciplinary
action in that case.
Capt. Luis Yudice of the Madison
police said Ovadal requested tight
security for the lecture after receiving
death threats.
BU..K RATE
U.S.POSTAGE
PAID
NEW ORLEANS, LA
PERMIT No. 511
--- - -~ --~ ~ - = =-~=~- ~ - - - ---· -
for consideration.
Current teaching condemning homosexuality
was approved in the
church 's Social Principles in 1972.
Delegates to the quadrennial Methodist
General Conference have
upheld the language ever since.
This year, supporters of gay rights
were more hopeful for change after 15
bishops announced their personal
opposition to church policy. But that
hope faded on April 24 when delegates
voted 577 to 378 to uphold
NO HERESY TRIAL!
church policy, which bars "selfavowed
practicing" homosexuals
from ordination or jobs in churches.
The vote, however, revealed a sizable
shift in denominational sentiment
since the 1992 General Conference,
when the vote for keeping the
SEE METIIODISTS, Page 9
Churchcomt~
charges agahN Righter
By James Thrall
Episcopal News Service
WILMINGTON, Del. - An Episcopal
Church court dismissed heresy
charges May 15 against retired
Bishop Walter C. Righter . The
Court held that neither the doctrine
nor the discipline . of the Church currently
prohibit the ordination of a
non-celibate gay person living in a
committed relationship.
In early 1995 Righter was charged
by ten bishops under Church canons
for "teaching publicly and advisedly
that a practicing homosexual may
properly be ordained" in the Episcopal
Church and for violating his
ordination vows for ordaining Barry
L. Stopfel, a candidate from the
Visit our Outreach Partner
in Providence, R.I.,
Dayton, Ohio, Chicago, Ill.,
Des Moines, Iowa,
San Francisco, Calif., and
Long Beach, Calif.
See a e 14.
Diocese of Newark, who was living
and continues to live in what is
described as a committed relationship
with another man.
Seven of the judges agreed that the
ordination did not violate the
Church's doctrine or discipline.
The majority opinion stated that
'The Court is not giving an opinion on
the morality of same gender relationships
. We are not deciding whether
life-long, committed, sexual same
gender relationships are or are not a
wholesome example with respect to
ordination vows. We are not rendering
an opinion on whether a bishop
and diocese should or should not
ordain persons living in same sex
relationships. Rather , we are deciding
the narrow issue of whether or not
u nder Title IV [the Church's disciplinary
canons] a bishop is restrained
from ordaining persons living in · a
committed same gender sexual relationship."
SEE RIGHTER,Page 3
SUBSCRIBE TODAY! See Pa e 22.
.Welcome!
_/ IF YOU FOUND this copy of Second Stone at a gay
pride event, a P-FLAG meeting, or some other event
or location, there's a Second Stone Outreach Partner
in your area. Their brochure is enclosed. They are a
Christian church or organization with a specific outreach
to gays and lesbians. We encourage you to visit
them for their next service or meeting. In the meantime,
you may be asking some questions like the
ones that follow.
When I told my church pastor I
was gay, I was referred to an exgay
program. What's thaf all
abc;mt?
Recent scientific research is indicating that sexual orientation
is innate and cannot ·be changed. Ex-gay programs
are effective in redirecting a heterosexual person
who has experimented with homosexual activity
back to heterosexual relationships. For a gay or lesbian
person, however , an ex-gay ministry can orily
teach one how to "act as if' heterosexual, often with
painful results . Au ex-gay program cannot change
your sexual orientation. Remember that most ex-gay
church counselors are heterosexual and cannot speak
from the experience of being gay. Also, any psychologist
or psychiatrist who offers "treatment" for homosexuality
is not following guidelines established by
the American Psychological Association or the Amer- -
ican Medical Association.
After all the rejection I got from
my church, why should I even care
about God?
Your church may have rejected you, but God never
has. God's nature is to draw you closer to Him, not
to reject you. The church is administered by pastors,
bishops, lay people, committees; people like you and
me - sometimes connected with God at work among
us, and sometimes not Sometimes the people who
run the church, because off ear, selfishness or other
reasons, are not able to.follow as God leads. In the
past, the church failed to speak out against the Holocaust
and slavery. At some point in the future, the
church's present failure _to affirm gay and lesbian people
and its failure to speak out against the homophobia
that leads to discrimination and violence will be
seen as a terrible wrong. As Episcopal Bishop Barbara
Harris once said, the church is a follower of society,
not a leader.
Does this mean I shouldn't go to
church? ·
Absolutely not! (It means the church needs you probably
more ·than you need the church .) There is a place
for you in a church in your neighborhood. There are
rnany Christian churches and organizations around the
country that have a specific ministry to gay and lesbian
people . Even in the mainstream denominations
gay and lesbian people have prominent, although
sometimes closeted, places in the church as pastors,
youth leaders, choir masters, lay leaders, and so on.
Many mainstream churches across the country have
moved into positions of welcoming and affirming gay
and lesbian people.
How do I know that God doesn't
reject me?
Even if you've never set foot in a church or thought
much about God, you were created by a loving God
PAGE 2 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
'' ALL I HEARD FOR THE FIRST
18 YEARS OF MY LIFE WAS
HOW MUCH GOD LOVED ME_
WHEN I TOLD MY COLLEGE
FRIENDS I WAS GAY THEY
TOLD ME GOD HATED
HOMOSEXUALS I THINK GOD
KNEW WHO I WAS ALL
ALONG AND HIS LOVE FOR
ME HADN'T CHANGED . MY
FRIENDS WERE WRONG
·who seeks you out If there's a barrier betw~n yourself
and God, it is not God's responsibility . Blackaby
and King in Experiencing God say there are seven
realities of a relationship with God: L God is always
at work around you. 2. God pursues a continuing love
relationship with you that is real and personal. 3. God
invites you to become involved with Him in His
work. 4. God speaks by the Holy Spirit through the
Bible, prayer, circumstances, and the church to reveal
Himself, His purposes, and His ways. 5:God's invitation
for you to work with Him always leads you to
a crisis of belief that requires faith and action. 6. You
must make major adjustments in your life to join
God in what He is doing. 7. You come to know God
·by experience as you obey Him and He accomplishes
His work through you.
If you've never really believed in God, and
want to know more, ask a friend or pastor
to talk to you. He or she may -be able to
recommend -a reading resource, a video, a
Bible study group or a church. And don't
be afraid or embarrassed to ask. Such a
friend or pastor will be -glad you asked. It
is bow God works among us. If you've
never -read the Bible before, start with
~omans 3:23; 6:23; S:8; 10:9-10; and
io: 1J.
But can I really be gay and Christian?
Sexual orientation - ei titer gay or straight - is a good,
God-given part of your being. A homosexual orientation
is not a sinful state. The Bible condemns some
heterosexual activity and some homosexual activity;
when someone gets used or hurt rather than loved.
The Bible supports commitment and fidelity in loving
relationships.
-Doesn't the Bible say homosexual
activity is a sin?
Daniel Helminiak in Wha t the Bible Really Says
About Homosexuality says: The sin of Sodom was
[not homosexuality.] Jude condemns sex with angels,
not sex between men. Not a single Bib le text clearly
refers to lesbian sex ... Orily five texts surely refer to
male-male sex, Leviticus 18:22 and 20: 13, Romans
1:27 and I Corinthians 6:9 and I Timothy I: 10. All
these texts are concerned with ·something other than
homosexual activity itselL If people would still
seek to know outright if gay or lesbian sex in itself is
good or eviL they will have to look elsewhere for an
answer... The Bible never addresses tha t question :
More than that, the Bible seems deliberately unconcerned
about it
- I would like explore further. What
can I do now?
While there are many good books and videos available,
there's something powerful in being "where two
or more are gathered." You may want to check out a
ministry in your area with a specific outreach to gays
and lesbians, including Second Stone's Outreach
Partner. The worship style may not be what you're
used to, but the point is to connect with gay and lesbian
Christians with whom you can have discussions
about where you are. Or you may want to try a variety
of churches in your neighborhood, even those of
other denominations. (Ibere is no "one true church.") .
There are gay and lesbian people iu almost every
church and God, who is always at work around you,
will connect you to the people you need to know - if
you take the first step.
Wouldn't it just be easier to keep
my sexual life a secret?
Some gay and lesbian people who are happy, whole
and fully integrated may have to be silent about their
sexuality because of their job or other circumstances.
(Ibe day will come when that is no longer the case.)
Bnt a gay or lesbian person who cannot integrate their
sexuality with the rest of their being faces a difficult
struggle indeed. To deny one's sexuality to oneself
while in church or at work or with straight friends,
and then to engage in periodic sexual activity is not a
self-loving, esteem-building experience . Au inability
to weave your sexuality into tl1e fabric of your life in
a way that makes you feel good about yourself and
allows you to develop rela tionships with others is a
cause for concern and should be discussed with
someone skilled in gay and lesbian issues.
the other
Front Page
cover items continued & late stories
~ bishop ~clerfire
from lntegiity chapter
THE DALLAS CHAPTER of Integrity,
Inc. has accused Bishop James
Stanton of the Episcopal Diocese of
Dallas with "worsen"ing the climate
of fear and self-repression of samesex
attraction" by spearheading the
movement to bring charges against
Bishop Walter Righter and by his
silence surrounding the arrest of a
priest in Stanton's diocese on sex
charges.
On January 19, 1996, the Rev. Rex
Perry, Rector of the Episcopal
Churd, of the Incarnat ion in Dallas,
pied no contest to charges of public
lewdness stemming from an arrest in
which police allege Perry made
improper sexual contact with an
undercover officer in a p ublic men's
room. He has been inhibited from his
functions as a pries t by Bishop Stanton
and has ·resigned from the Church
of the Incarnation.
Perry was known to have made
statements both publicly and privately
· condemning sex between persons
of the same gender,
No public announcements regarding
RIGHTER,
From Pagel
The Court also stated , "We remind
the Church that this issue will not be
reso lved and the Church unified in
its faith and practice by presentments
and trials, nor by unilateral
acts of bishops and their dioceses, or
through the adoption of proclamations
by groups of bishops or others
expressing positions on the issues."
The Court ruled that the Canon on
doctrine protects only the Church's
Core Doctrine . It also ruled that
other Church teachings and resolutions
of the Church's legislative
body, the General Convention, may,
at times, be enforceab le under the
Canons but concluded that the teaching
against the ordination of non celibate
homosexual persons was not
presently enforceable under the Constitution
and Canons of the Church.
In a concluding section on pastoral
concerns, the majority offered several
suggestions about how the General
Convention, which next meets in
1997, might offer greater clarity to
order the Church's life on this issue,
stating that it could pass a Canon
the facts that led to Perry's suspension
and resignation have been made
by anyone connected with the churdl,
including Bishop Stanton or the
Church of the Incarnation.
Leaders of St. Aelred's Chapter of
Integrity charged that the actions of
Stanton in calling for a heresy trial
of Bishop Righter and th~ actions of
Perry prior to his arrest "perpetuate
and deepen a climate of hostility and
fear toward persons of same-sex orientation."
In a prepared statement the organization
went on to say that such a
"hostile climate drives out of the
church persons of same-sex orientation
who attempt to lead lives of
openness and accountability in
response to the gospel, and sends a
clear message to those who seek ordination
to hide and repress any hint of
same-sex attraction, This climate of
fear and repression will continue to
lead to the type of severe spiritual
self-alienation and irresponsible sex-·
ual activity that led to Perry's
arrest."
stating explicitly either that ordination
of non-celibate homosexuals persons
is or is not permitted. It also
stated that a trial is a poor way to
clarify doctrine or to secure good
order in the Church.
A pre-trial hearing was held in
Hartford, Connecticut on December 8
of last year. The Presenters, represented
by A. Hugo Blankingship, and
Michael F. Rehill, Chancellor of the
Diocese of Newark representing
Bishop Righter, agreed that the
basic issue in the case was the doctrine
of the Episcopal Church, At a
widely attended public hearing on
February 27th, the Court heard arguments
on the doctrine of the Church,
The Court thereafter concluded that
the Presentment also raised the question
of whether the Church's discipline
had been violated and
requested briefs from the parties on
that issue.
The Presenters can appeal the question
of the Church's doctrine on the
ordination of non - celibate homosexual
persons living in committed relai°
ionships to a Court of Review consisting
of nine Bishops.
;- ·5 '
City denies site for MCC
GREENVILLE, S.C. (AP) - Members
of a Metropolitan Community Church
have been tol d by a city board they
cannot move the church to a historic
residential neighborhood. The
church has hired a lawyer and is
looking to the courts to overturn the
city's decision.
"In the old days, everybody would
stand up and say they're not going to
do this because homosexuals are moving
in, but now things are more subtle
and they're trying to find a pretext to
. stop them . The true motivation is
they don't want a church with homo sexual
members," said the church's
lawyer, Suzanne Coe.
Members of the city's Board of Zoning
Adjustments said they rejected
the church's request not because of the
parishioners' sexual orientation but
because it would bring too much traffic
to the area.
The churdl bought an old school in
December and began clearing away
four years of decay in hopes of starting
worship services in March.
Members liked the site because it is
close to downtown and was adver tised
as ideal for a school or church . .
They didn't expect problems because
two other churches are on the same
block and the building was used by a
small Greek Orth'?dox congregation
after the sdlool closed.
Contractors found they needed the
city's permission for renovations
because the area is planned for family
housing, and that's when the Rev.
J. Allen Smith of nearby Central Baptist
Church spoke up in opposition.
"It's a homosexual church group,"
he said. "We don't hate homosexuals
and would like to see them get their
lives straightened out, but the Bible
in many, many places condemns that
as a sin . We'd hate to see it in our
community because it would encourage
that sort of thing."
Metropolitan Community pastor
Mick Hinson said about 80 percent of
his 114-member congregation is gay.
"We are a Christian church," Hinson
said. "We are not the gay church
that people perceive us to be, but a
church that opens its doors to everybody.
What is happening · d'6esn't
make sense, and we're confused."
The city zoning staff said renovating
the deteriorating building would
improve the historic neighborhood,
but zoning board Chairman Brian
Todd said board members were concerned
that traffic and parking would
destroy the area's character.
"If it were any other church, we
would have made the decision based
on the same conditions," Todd said.
"The composition of the church and
the beliefs of the church had nothing
to do with the board's decision."
City Councilwoman Elizabeth
Gower said she believes the church's
membership played a role in the
,rejection. Greenville is a center of the
conservative religious movement in
South Carolina.
"I've lived in Greenville long
enough to know that it is very likely
possible that it did," she said: "It
raises a lot of questions about the
legitimacy of our process."
Gay day at Ohio park
irks conservatives
By Bob Batz
The Dayton Daily l~ews
IF DON JACKSON has his way, June
2 won't be just another day in the
park at Paramount's Kings Island.
That Sunday is the date set for the
regular get-together at the Warren
County (Ohio) amusement park for
the Greater Cincinnati Gay and Lesbian
Coalition. Members of the coalition
traditionally wear red T-shirts
that day.
But Jackson, president of the Dayton-
based Christian Family Net work,
said he was so upset by last
year's event that this year he wants
to confront the thousands of gay men
and lesbians with a like number of
white-shirted church-goers.
"Our goal is to inundate the park
with 4,000 Christians who would
bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to people
we know are hurting," Jackson
said, adding that it would be a
peaceful confrontation.
Spokesmen for the coalition
declined to comment, but tire Rev.
Samuel Kader, pastor of Day.toi'l's
Comm1,mity Gospel Church, which
has some gay and lesbian members,
calls Jackson 's plan "ludicrous.''
"What makes it so upsetting is
that he is assuming gays aren't
Christians, which, of course, is absolutely
untrue," Kader said.
"Some gay Christians I know say
they'll wear red-and-white striped
shirts . to the park that day."
the NEWS continues
onPage8
PAGE 3 • SECOND STONE • MAY/J UNE, 1996
. EM WSK2!f 4 ·t:U ·71
• Prayer ,The Bible • Words & Deeds
Sound familiai:?
'Little person' has tall struggle
toward oroained ministry
WESTMINSTER, Md. (AP) - The
Rev. Stella Dempski faced an unusual
problem when she was looking for a
congregation that would accept her as
their minister - her size.
At age 28, Ms. Dempski is just 4 feet
1 inch tall and has been made a Presbyterian
minister. She is the first
female dwarf to be ordained in any
denomination, according to the
National Board of Little People.
''The process tested my patience but
not my faith," she said. "I knew I
would find a church. God had called
me to pursue ordained ministry. The
ministry is my life choice - not a job,
but a way of life."
Armed with a two master's degrees -
one in divinity studies, the other in
Christian education - Ms. Dempski
began her search for a job. She sent
her resume to more than 60 congrega- ·
lions, but none of the jobs seemed to
pan ·OUt.
In November, her patience paid off
when she was installed as Westminster's
First United Presbyterian
Church's first full-time assistant
pastor of education and discipleship.
The congregation of 455
"immediately accepted me for who I
was as a person," Ms. Dempski said.
''They were open to adjusting to my
UNCOMMON
CALLING:A
Gay Christian's
Struggle to
Serve the
Church
BY CHRIS GLASER
Expanded and with a new
introduction, conclusion , and
phot.ographs . In this book, Chris
Glaser describes his personal
journey of coming out to his family,
friends, church - and t.o himself
short stature."
Ms. Dempski was born with achondroplasia,
a genetic disorder that
stunts growth and causes dwarfism.
Members of the 35-year-old congregation
immediately built a platform
for her to stand on behind the communion
table and another for the pulpit.
"Ste lla is a unique, gifted person
wno is supposed to be here with us,"
said the Rev. Steven R. Fleming, pastor
at the church.
"People were really impressed with
. my dossier but when I got to the interview,
there were not many questions,"
she said. "I can tell when size is the
issue and people are not ready."
"I believe everyone is a child of
God, even though we have different
opinions and different understandings
of how we live our lives," said Ms.
Dempski. "Size is just a piece of who I
am."
On her first visit to the 174 children
in the Sunday school program, her
dimensions drew questions from the
youngest children.
"I told them they were going to
grow, but I am going to stay like
this," she said. "God m akes different
people in differ ent ways. God chose
to make me short."
Uncommon Calling. $19.99, paperback
Order from Second Stone Press, Page 22.
PAGE 4 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Gay teens find comfort in numrern
By Kathy Matter
The Lafayette Journal and Courier
LAFAYETTE, Ind. - For teens struggling
with their sexuality, putting
together the words ''I'm gay" may be
the first step to finding ways to cope.
When confused and isolated gay
teens don't know what to say, Indianapolis
Youth Group (IYG) - one of the
three largest gay-serving youth
organizations in the United States -
is there to listen.
IYG has six branch chapters, including
Lafayette, and is one of 10 projects
to receive federal funding from the
Ryan White Act.
At IYG meetings teens who have
been afraid to talk about their sexuality
find an atmosphere of caring
people and no pressure, says Michele
O'Mara, an Indianapolis social
worker with IYG.
In confidential locations free of
society's stares and judgments, they
can socialize, discuss problems and
get health information or counseling.
Still "the nerve it takes to get gay
teens here (the first time) is incredible,"
O'Mara says.
"We don't put them in a position to
define themselves. We don't ask if
they're gay. Putting those two words
- I'm . gay - together is th e hardest
thing a person who's not heterosexual
can do."
Frank, a Jefferson High School
junior, says he understands. He says
he is afraid to reveal to friends - let
alone a newspaper - that he is gay.
'T m normal. I just want to have a
normal word for it," he says. "If I
could just tell (people I'm gay) I
would probably feel better and have
better friends. I would just feel ll<?rmal.
I know I'm normal but people
don't think so."
That's the idea behind IYG: help
gay teens who hide their identity
understand ..their feelings and get
self-confidence. Then gay teens might
be mor e comfortable sharing with
family and friends.
Talking through gay teens' feelings
is essential, O'Mara says.
"It's absolutely critical that a young
person be able to tell," she says. "We
all need to feel we have a voice and
that that voice matters. To keep
quiet about something as significant
as the nature of our heart and who we
care about is a very s tifling way to
live."
Rob Mate co-sponsors Lafayette's
newly formed IYG with Sandie
Brown. Mate says he wishes something
like IYG was around when he
was young.
As a teenager in the 1960s, when
homosexuality was classified as a
mental disorder, Mate was filled
with confusion. High school "was a
very painful experience. I would not
want to wish this pain on others," he
says. "I worked for years to be OK
with myself."
Brown, who's 22 and working on a
pre-law degree, struggled as a lesbian
teen .
"As a youth growing up, 1 went •
through hell. I had no idea I could be
who I was," says Brown.
Looking for a niche in junior high,
she turned to the outcast crowd.
''They all did drugs," Brown says. "I
· did a lot of drugs. I sold a lot of bad
drugs. I had my life threatened."
She conquered her drug habit and
dealt with her sexua lity, but not all
her lesbian friends could. When one
committed suicide, Br own got
involved with IYG so she could help
others.
Looking at their own experiences,
Brown and Mate agree that kids
growing up gay today will have an
easier time in society than the generations
preceding them.
"With IYG, I have a lot of hope for
this generation I'm working with,"
O'Mara says.
Pastor, I Anl Gay
By The Rev. H. Howard Bess
Order from
Second Stone Press.
See page 22.
Al though more and more parishioners are
comfortable with coming out at church, many
pastors still aren't equipped to hear the words,
"I am gay." This remarkable book chronicles a
Baptist pastor's first fumbling encounter with
those words to his deep and compassionate
understanding of what is means to be a gay
Christian.
An extraordinary book... a prophetic
witness to the church ...
-James B. Ashbrook,
Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary
Faith in Daily Life
ChUICh leaders-explore limits of dissent
the faithful. By David Briggs
Associated Press Religion Writer
EPISCOPAL CHURCH officials are
considering trying a retired bishop for
heresy because he ordained a noncelibate
gay man. Bishop Walter
Righter is only the second bishop in
the 206-year history of the church to
be charged with heresy.
In his own case, Righter said the
charges against him were politically
motivateq.
In Nebraska, a Roman Catholic
bishop has warned the 85,000 members
of his flock to sever ties with 12
groups - from Planned Parenthood to
several Masonic organizations - or
face excommunication, the severest
church penalty.
"The Episcop~I Church says the
Bible exists for the church to interpret,"
Righter has said. "That's the
crux of this whole thing. Are we going
to be a church which buys into the
funny farm of saying, 'Every word in
the Bible is true?' We never have.
In highly publicized cases in the
fall of 1993, five high-profile
scholars and feminists were excommunicated
from the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints.
■ "The circle of faith
cannot identify its
center without
recognizing its
margins ... "
■
In an age when it sometimes seems
that anything goes in the secular
world, some church leaders are going
to extraordinary means to impose
limits on dissent.
"We 're a church that takes
serio1.1sly what's in the Bible, and we
try to interpret it for each generation."
The striking actions have prompted
considerable debate over whether
such strong ecclesiastical sanctions
are needed to protect the faith, or
whether they represent a conservative
attempt to impose their will on
But the bishops who brought the
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about the authority of Scripture
in the church.
Bishop James Stanton of Dallas is
worried that the church is allowing
itself to be reshaped by culture rather
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than the other way around.
".What we see is a steady movement
in the direction of radical relativism,
which says there isn't any truth, and
radical autonomy, which says every
human defines him or herself. Both
of these positions are a move away
from the Christian faith itself,"
Stanton has said.
Bishop Fabian Bruskewitz, the
leader of the Catholic diocese of Lincoln,
Neb., said his excommunication
threat is "less a punishment than it is
a sanction urging people to reevaluate
their faith with God."
"We need to make clear that the
matter is serious," Bruskewitz said.
"It places the very gift of one's
Catholic faith in danger."
However, no other Catholic bishop
has followed his lead, and some
observers have said publicly that the
threat of mass excommunications is an
embarrassmen t to the church.
In the latest issue of Commonweal, a
professor of church law also ~aid the
threat is so outrageous it is an idle
one as well.
"A law so contrary to the spirit and
letter of canon law, so sweepingly
'broad and aimless, so unsupported by
evidence of necessity, so intemperate
and harsh, and so contemptuous of the
precious value of ecclesial commun ion;
is invalid on its face," wrote
James A. Coriden of the Washington
Theological Union.
Stuart Wright, a sociologist at
Lamar University in Beaumont,
Texas, saidjn both religion and politics,
"Liberalism has bec.ome the new
evil in society."
He traces the movement back io the
early 1980s, saying the recent crackdowns
follow the long conservative
takeover in the Southern Baptist
Convention. ~
"There's definitely a perception of
threat, even to the point of becoming
quite aggressive in their attack on
liberals," Wright said.
But in an editorial in a recent issue
of Christianity Today titled "Why
We Believe in Heresy," theologian
Thomas C. Oden said the rediscovery
of boundaries will be the preoccupation
of 21st-century theology.
''The circle of faith cannot identify
its center without recognizing its
margins," write ·s Oden, a theology
professor at Drew University in Madison,
N.J. ''The debate about whether
heresy can be defined is a struggle to
specify margins, the legitimate boundaries
of the worshiping community ."
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PAGE 5 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Faith in Daily Life
WEEKLY
DEVOTIONAL
BY
REV. DONNA E. SCHAPER
WEEK1
When we call
on God, we
hear the
great sound
of justice ...
Yet you did not call upon me, 0 Jacob;
but you have been weary of me, 0
Israel! ·
-Isaiah 43:22
... we are not
driving so hard
for later and more
and better. We
stop the .hustle.
Of making many books there is no
end, and much study is a weariness ·of
the flesh.
-Ecclesiastes 12:12.
WE ARE TIRED OF a nearly unceas- WE WANT MORE books or more earing
need to explain ourselves to peo- rings or a bigger house. Want, for
pie whose attention should focus many of us, has no end and it has
somewhere else than on our sexual become a weariness of the flesh.
orientations. My friend just found out The weariness we feel is a friend.
that one member of her church is Fatigue is a friendly warning . Like
"uncomfortable" with her now that the early signals for serious disease,
she has come out. fatigue can be a friend if noticed. It is
Being tired is a result of injustice. It an enemy if not.
is also the result of packing too much We befriend fatigue by stopping to
into too small a unit of time. There deny its existence. We look it square
are both internal and external reasons in the eye and accept its permission to
for injustice. do less in our days. Metaphorically,
Action at the economic level is cru- we write fewer books .
cial if we are to avoid Israel and Less becomes more in the spiritual
Jacob's problem . When we call on strategy of befriending fatigue. We
God, we hear the great sound of jus- see deeply enough into now, and we
tice, the sure promise that we are to experience now deeply enough, that
live unwearied lives. God is not lying we are not driving so hard for later
about justice! and more and better. We stop the
We do less. We unclutter our lives. hustle. We get off the merry go
We wait on the Lord. ': ·,,.:round.
Let us Pray: Hear our Call, 0 God. Let us Pray: Stop us, 0 God. Let
Wearenotwearyofyourpromisesnor weariness warn. In Jesus' Name,
ofYou. Amen. Amen.
PAGE 6 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Steal
time back.
Remove some
of the obstacles
m our way.
In vain, I have wearied myself, its
thick rust does not depart . To the fire
with-its rust!
- Ezekiel 24:12
IN A VISION, THE prophet sees the
fruitlessness and pointlessness of the
way he is wasting his life. He vows
to burn the rust off and to steal his
life back from ruin.
There is a new group of social scientists
who call themselves "Failure
analysts." They argue that things
fail from the interaction of difficulty,
not just one thing. We rust not from
a simple mistake but from a collection
of them.
How to get over waste and ruin and
its weariness? Use the prophet's
strategy . Steal time back. Remove
some of the obstacles in our way.
One step at a time, one difficulty at
a time, even it we have to take years
to restore ourself, will work. We will
u.nweary ourselves.
.Let us Pray : Remove the rust from
our sheen, 0 God. Restore us to vigor
and self-control. Let weariness leave
our steps and let us walk beyond our
failure. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
[We are]
Bored to death
while being
bombarded with
stimulation.
Consider him who endured such hostility
against himself from sinners, so
that you may not grow weary or lose
heart.
- Hebrews 12:3
THE MOST SERIOUS charge that
can be brought against New England
is not Puritanism but rather February,
according to Joseph Wood i<rutch.
Those who know severe New England
winters know exactly what he means.
Not that we needed February to
remind us of wilderness. We know.
We are a people living so deeply in a
wilderness time that we don't need
reminders to keep our shovels ready.
Chipping ice is something most of us
get to do year round .
If you ask almost any member of a
modern congregation what their real
spiritual condition is, they respond
pelleted. Exhausted. The ancient
monks called it acedia. Bored to
death while being bombarded with
stimulation. Pelleted exhaustion,
bored but bombarded. Like snow
storms that don't stop corning, one
right after the other, covering over
last week's ice with this week's
sleet .
Modern acedia is the result of violating
the Sabbath. From living in a
culture that we have put on permanent
fast forward. From never resting.
From never taking cover. From never
giving IT a break.
Can we remember Jesus deep in winter?
Can we remember what he
endured? If we can, we can find a way
to hang on to our heart.
Let us Pray: Sometimes we feel like
we have lost everything, 0 God.
Even our way. Save us. Help us to
hang on to our heart -- and to find o,ur
heart in your heart. Amen.
™
The monotony
ofthe
... monoculture
is the name of
our wilderness
Even youths will faint and be weary,
and the young will fall exhausted but
those who wait on the Lord shall
renew their strength ....
-Isaiah 40:30,31
WAITING IS A WAY through weariness.
We wait on the return of the
Lord. We stop going in circles -- and
start going towards God, no matter
how long the journey.
Many walks in the wilderness seem
to lead nowhere, only to new and
more lethal versions of Egypt. There
is tremendous monotony in obeying our
cultural and economic instructions.
We live in a one dimensional world
too often, a single place, simultaneously
enormous and cramped. Not a
roomy place. But a single place.
The monotony of the monoculture is
the name of our wilderness. But we
can live in more than one world! We
can live here and in God's world at
the same time. We can place our feet
towards glory.
I may be in the wilderness but I am
also awaiting the land. I may live
here beside you and send my children
to those places you call schools but I
am on my way to a better land. I am
on my way. In case any of you have
hummed this tune lately, on my way
to the promised land, I don't need to
tell you about the stones. To even
hum this tune, much less organize a
choir, you would . have thought that
you had done something as serious as
violating the Sabbath . When all you
were doing was protecting the Sabbath.
Giving the drum a little different
beat. Making a little fissure in
dominant ideology. Giving IT a little
break.
The dominant ideology is CAN DO -
- vigorous American optimism -- as
long as you are in favor of more, better,
growth and progress . It is CANT
BE DONE should you recommend sustainability.
Job Sharing. The Six
hour work day. The Protection of the
earth, air, and water from further
damage . Children being taken care of
by loving parents instead of commodified
along with health care, drama,
and music .
We wait for the Promised Land. We
will wait as long as we need .
Let us Pray: 0 God, plant our feet
towards promise and let us not faint.
Amen.
We don't listen
to those who
want us to
"stay in
our place."
My Soul Longs, indeed it faints for
the rourts of the Lord ....
-Psalm 84:2
WHY FAINT FOR THE courts of the
Lord? Why not do something about
our longing? Why not pin a fringe, a
piece of embroidery to the garment
we wear, and add color to a dull
world?
Take a little Sabbath . Give it a
break, even an afternoon a week, and
you have done something quite damaging
to the monotony. As strong as
the monoculture looks, it is really
quite vulnerable.
Ask the people you know who
already do wear the cross embroidered
somewhere on their lifestyle .
How do they manage to spend so
much time in the courts of the Lord.
They already do things differently.
Watch how the best among us manage.
We tithe. We give thanks at
meals. We take the strangers in. We
keep the doors of our churches open.
We visit with our people and disagree
with them that their daily
grind is hopeless. We travel out of
our place in the one dimensional
world into the courts of the Lord.
We don't listen to those who want us
to "stay in our place ." We go to court
· with criminals and st'and next to
them, whispering one, two, three
strikes, no matter how many times
you mess up and miss the ball, God
will never abandon you . Not my God
and not Your God. We go out of our
place. And we go out of our way. We
hope for things that other people
don't hope for. We make friends
with people who other people don't
make friends with.
We enter the courts of the Lord.
Let us Pray: Move us, 0 God, out of
our daily grind into your glorious
Court. Amen.
We feed
the
5000, one
sandwich
at a time.
If I send them away hungn; to their
homes, they will faint on the way - and
some of them have come from a
great distance.
-MarkB:3
JESUS IS AFRAID NOT to feed the
5000! He doesn't want them to weary
on their way home. Jesus has a great
tenderness in his heart. That tender ness
keeps us from fainting.
A therapist once said to me, ''Don't
sweat the small stuff." Then he continued,
"It's all small stuff." Jesus
paid attention to the details . In that
attention was his tenderness. His
tenderness keeps us from fainting.
I was shopping the sales rack of
winter coats with my ten year old son,
Isaac. The one coat in his size was
multicolor with just a splash of pink
on it at the neck. "I couldn't wear
that, he said." Why not? 'The pink.
Mom, can you imagine what would
happen to me if I wore that coat to
school?"
He also went with me to the wood
pile the same weekend. As we
approached it I grabbed a particularly
gnarled piece. Isaac grabbed it
back and said no don't burn that one.
What? That one reminds me of Jimmy.
Jimmy is the boy in his class that
is also paraplegic. "I never want to
burn that one," he said.
Tenderness doesn't need to wear
pink. Nor does toughness need to
wear blue . Strength for Christians is
not based in the pink and blue rules so
much as in the great love and tenderness
of God, the way God loves us in
ways that assure we have a sandwich
for the trip home. God is courteous.
God cares for us. If we want to
keep from fainting, we may simply do
and be the same.
We feed the 5000, one sandwich at a
time.
Let us Pray: Let us be more Godlike,
more polite, more attentive to the
small stuff, in imitation of your Son,
Jesus, Amen.
Faith in Daily Life
w
Why DO we
gad about?
Why not focus
on what is
important?
Why gaddest thou about so much to
change thy way?
-Jeremiah 2:36
FOCUS IS ONE OF THE great gifts of
great people. They seem to be able to
concentrate . To pay attention. To
hear their own depth and to follow
it.
Gadding about is one of the temptations
we all face, even those called
great . We flit. We do what the Buddhists
call "monkey mind ." We wander
from one room to another, looking
for our lost glasses, or the telephone,
or the gym bag. We gad about, even
in our own home, much less in our spiritual
lives, or at our jobs, or while
writing a letter. We lose our way
instead of. following our way. We get
in our own way! We clutter our center
with what Martin Luther called the
"adiophora." Adiophora means the
unessentials.
Theologians love to debate the unessentials
. Many homes live in clutter .
Many politicians clutter our mind
with things we don't want or need,
just to make us feel good long enough
to vote for them.
When we listen to the probing question
Jeremiah says God asks, we find
ourselves needing to respond. Why
00 we gad about? Why not focus on
what is important?
What is important? It is the mind
and heart of Jesus. It is love. It is
warmth. It is a central place from
which to live - a place that knows
God loves us and therefore we may
also love.
The rest is adiophora.
Let us Pray: 0 God, let me be of one
mind and one heart today. And let
the rest go by until its time. Amen. ,
The Rev. Donna E. Schaper is an Area
Minister of the Massachusetts Conference
of the United Church of
Christ.
PA G E 7 • SECOND STONE • MAY / J UNE, 1996
Dignity/Ba;ton: Catholic
newspaper refused ad for
Holy Week setvices
By Diego Ribadeneira
The Boston Globe
BOSTON - An organization of
Catholic gays and lesbians has protested
the refusal by the Pilot, the
official newspaper of the Archdiocese
of Boston; to print a paid
advertisement announcing the group's
Holy Week and Easter Sunday services.
The group, Dignity /Boston, said the
Pilot sent a letter in late March refusing
to run the ad, but did not cite a
reason.
Joan T. McAllister, the Pilot's
advertising manager, said that she
referred Dignity /Boston's ad request
to the paper's editor, Rev. Peter V.
Conley, who rejected it without
explanation. Father Conley could not
be reached for comment.
Officially, the Catholic Church
does not accept homosexual behavior
but it has denounced discrimination
against gays and lesbians.
But the group 's members argued
their holiday services should have
qualified for advertising space. "We
may not agree on all the issues, but
we're just as Catholic as the folks at
the Pilot," said Peggy Hayes, past
president of Dignity /Boston.
The Catholic Action League of Massachusetts
rebuked Dignity /Boston
for criticizing the Archdiocese of Boston.
League members called the complaint
"disingenuous" and the incident
"a tawdry publicity stunt."
Dignity /Boston, a 23-year-old
organization with about 100 members,
holds Sunday services in St. John the
Evangelist Church, an Episcopal parish
on Beacon Hill.
Dignity /Boston members pointed out
that the Pilot last December printed
an ad submitted by The Catholic
Alliance, an offshoot of the conservative
Christian Coalition. The
alliance has been criticized by many
US bishops as not representing
Catholic Church positions on social
issues such as welfare reform and
capital punishment.
At the time, John Walsh;-a spokesman
for the Archdiocese of Boston,
said The Catholic Alliance's ad was
a routine paid advertisement.
"We'd love the chance to purchase a
routine paid advertisement," said
Michael Leclerc, president of
Dignity /Boston.
Presbyterian churches withhold
money; await action on sexuality is.sues
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - Eight Presbyterian
churches are withholding
$47,000 in mission money from the
Presbytery of Scioto Valley because
of conflicting views on homosexuality.
Will Browne, acting presbyter, said
the money is being withheld until
the churches learn what action the
national General Assembly of the
church will take during its meeting in
New Mexico in late June. He would
not identify the churches.
The presbytery covers 113 churches
in central and southern Ohio.
Churches give money to the district
for service work.
At issue are whether homosexuality
is a sin and whether homosexuals
should be ordained .
"Some of them want a strong statement
on it and others want to leave
matters up to local churches," Browne
said concerning the churches' views of
homosexuality. "For some folks, it
seems that to ordain homosexuals
would support a homosexual lifestyle
. Our current position is that
homosexuality is a sin and homosexuals
cannot be ordained."
PAGE 8 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Churches, university to
discuss sexuality issues
By Jerry L. Van Marter
Presbyterian Church News
DAVIS, Calif. - A consortium of
churches, campus ministries and the
University of California at Davis are
gathering 300 religious leaders from
across the United States next fall to
explore how American religious institutions
can talk about issues of sexuality
without creating division within
their communities.
The Sept. 5-7 conference, "Finding
Common Ground: Human Sexuality
and American Religious Institutions,"
will be hosted on the UC-Davis camF
,s by The Belfry, the Lutheran/
Episcopal campus ministry at the university.
Among the co-sponsors are
numerous congregations, including the
Davis Community Presbyterian
Church, and several denominational
entities in northern California.
"All of us in American religious communities
are now, or soon will be, facing
major issues around sexuality in
our institutional life," noted the Rev.
Jim Kitchens, pastor of the Davis
Community Presbyterian Church.
"What we are seeking to do through .
this conference is to help one another
discover ways to engage in civil conversation
and debate about these
issues which do not tear .our denominations
apart."
The Evangelical Lutheran Church
in America-related Knutson Endowment,
which has provided major
funding for the conference, stipulated
that the conference "address human
sexuality and the church from a
broad-based perspective lo encourage
dialogue and promote respect, dignity
and courageous awareness among
Christians."
Featured speakers at the conference
will include the Rev. John Buchanan,
pastor of Fourth Presbyterian Church
in Chicago and a leader in the Presbyterian
Church (USA)'s efforts to
find reconciliation after the furor
that surrounded the denomination's
involvement in the November 1993
Re-Imagining conference. Keynote
speaker is the Rev. Mel White.
Further information about the conference
is available from Jean Hol
·sten at The Belfry, (916) 756-1550.
MCC member files discrimination
complaint against Morrison's
RICHMOND, Va. - A gay man has
filed federal employment discrimination
charges against Morrison's
Cafeterias. David M. Lambert
charges that he was fired from Morrison's
management training program
solely on the basis of hi& sexual orientation
and due to false rumors that
he was HIV-p a"§itive.
Lambert, 30, is openly gay and a single
parent will full legal custody of
his seven-year-old daughter . He has
been active in the gay community,
having served as pianist and worship
leader for MCC Richmond . He
also served as a founding member of
the Richmond chapter of the Gay
and Lesbian Parents Coalition, and is
the past Music Director for the MidAtlantic
District of the Universal
Fellowship of Metropolitan Community
Churches. ·
Lambert's attorney has encouraged
people to get involved with the case
by writing to the Equal Employment
Opportunity Commission, Attn: Ms.
Churchill, 101 West Main, World
Trade Center, Norfolk, VA 23510.
Lesbian couple's church duties nixed
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - A lesbian
couple is no longer participating in
activities at their south side church
because leaders there say homosexuality
is against Bible teachings .
The decision to remove one of the
women from the church choir was
made by the Board of Deacons at
Mount Zion Baptist Church . The
board has spiritual authority over
the church. The woman's partner voluntarily
stopped working with the
church's food pantry, said Percy
BrBwn, president of the Board of
_ Deacons.
The women were not identified
because they have children who participate
in church activities. One of
the women said the couple will not
leave the church because of their
children.
The woman said she has written a
letter of appeal to the deacons.
Brown considered the woman's ·
removal a.moral issue. A person can
also be removed from their duties for
drug abuse and adultery, Brown said.
National News
Methcxlists uphold opin;ition to gays
From Pagel
"incompatible" language was 710 to
238 - revealing a shift of 15 percent in
favor of a gay-affirming policy.
Delegates refused by a vote of 598 to
304 to approve holy unions, same-sex
covenants or any other marriage-like
ceremonies for gays and lesbians.
They later voted to have the Judicial
Council, the church's highest court,
decide whether the prohibition
would be church law or simply a
statement of guidance.
In an odd twist, delegates adopted a
resolution opposing discrimination
against gays and lesbians serving in
the armed forces.
The Methodist organization for
gays, Affirmation, called the vote to
uphold church policy "bearing false
witness."
"I would just say it's disappointing,
and we'll be back," said Jeanne Knepper,
a spokeswoman for Affirmation.
The church's action banning ordination
of gays sends a message to the
entire gay community that they are
not welcome, say leaders of the Reconciling
Congregation Program . An
independent United Methodist movement,
RCP counts 130 members -
churches, campus ministries, annual
(regional) conferences and others -
that welcome gay, lesbian and bisexual
people into the _church. The
organization's "Open the Doors" campaign
placed placards at a rally -
attended by about 250 people - held
during the General Conference that
displayed the names of more than
10,000 people proclaiming themselves
as "reconciling United Methodists."
Steve Marlatt, a gay man, was
among the speakers at the April 18
rally and press conference sponsored
by the RCP. In 1991, Marlatt and his
partner were active members of a
United Methodist congregation in
Southern California.Then a new pastor
arrived. "Your type is not needed
here," he told the pair .
Marfatt recalled the pain of his
own dismissal by the church pastor.
"He was not antagonistic," he
exp lained . "But his feeling was
• church was no place for a sinner."
Katherine Fuller of Willoughby,
Ohio, lamented that her daughter,
Marjorie, cannot fulfill a long-time
dream of being ordained in the
United Methodist Church because
she is a lesbian.
"I was and am fully able to support
my daughter," she said. "Now, if
only the church would support her,
too."
A United Methodist pastor in New
York State would not baptize the son
of Lynn Miller, a lifelong church
member, because he is being raised in
a lesbian household. And Diana
Chalfant, a coach with a winning
record, was fired from a United
Methodist college in Kentucky
because of her sexual orientation. ·
Chalfant does, however, take solace
in her involvement with Edgehill
United Methodist Church in Nashville,
Tenn., a reconciling congregation.
The church, its pastor and members
"did and still do give me the
strength to get through the week,"
she said.
The Rev. Karen Oliveto, pastor of
Bethany United Methodist Church in
San Francisco and chairperson of the
RCP board, noted that as long as such
discrimination exists in the denomination,
"our fellowship is flawed and
the body of Christ is weakened."
Also holding a press conference on
April 18 was the Transforming Congregations
Program, an ex-gay program
with no official ties to the
United Methodist Church. Rev.
Robert Kuyper, pastor of Trinity
United Methodist Church, Bakersfield,
Calif., and founder of the group
said the primary reason for the press
conference was "to challenge the possibility
that people believe change
(from a gay lifestyle) is impossible."
The ex-gay rally was attended by
several dozen people.
Prior to the vote on overturning the
anti-gay language in the Book of Discipline,
fifteen bishops signed a declaration
supporting gay rights, taking
exception to church doctrine. The
11 active and four retired bishops
released a statement April 18
expressing "pain ... over our personal
convictions that are contradicted by
the proscriptions in the (Book of)
SEE ME1HODISTS, Next Page
Traditional Episcopalians protest church visits by female suffragan bishop
By Marcy Gordon
Associated Press Writer
WASHINGTON (AP) - Saying they
are being persecuted by their bishop
for holding traditional beliefs, a
group of Episcopalians marched past
the National Cathedral on April 13
to protest church visits by a female
assistant bishop.
At a rally preceding the march, the
group of about 60 Episcopalians from
the Washington area protested recent
appearances at two churches by Jane
Holmes Dixon, one of six female
assistant Episcopal bishops in the
United States. The event was organized
by a group called Concerned Parishioners
of the Episcopal Diocese of
Washington, which opposes the ordination
of women and gays.
Carrying signs saying "Save Souls,
Jane Dixon Resign" and "Save Us
From False Doctrine," the marchers
chanted a slogan taken nearly verbatim
from the 1549 Book of Common
Prayer and aimed at Washington
Episcopal Bishop Ronald Haines:
"From the tyranny of the bishop of
Washington and all his detestable
enormities, good Lord deliver us."
The word enormities, in that context,
means deviation from moral rectitude
or extreme wickedness. The
chanters substituted the word
Washington for Rome in the original.
Haines, who sent Dixon to the
churches, has said that while he
could have avoided confrontation, he
wanted to push the issue lo attempt
lo unite the diocese around Episcopal
Church acceptance of women priests .
Haines also has ordained gay men.
Church traditionalists say they
view Dixon's church visits as a way
of forcing women priests on· unwilling
parishioners.
"They persecute us because we
adhere to the Holy Scriptures on
issues of morality," Stella Morabito
Green, a member of St. bike's Church
■ "They persecute us
because we
adhere tJ the
Holy Scriptures ... "
■
in Bladensburg, told the rally.
"What they care about is political
theology .... This is pure arrogance."
Haines and Dixon and their supporters,
she said, are seeking "the
total abolition of the church as we
understand it." She decried what she
called "ecclesiastical harassment" by
the diocese's leaders.
Added the Rev. William Ilgenfritz,
rector of Mount Calvary Church in
Baltimore: "Throw us out if you must,
but know that you are in for the biggest
battle of your life ... . We will not
go away."
Utah Episcopals denounce Legislature's
anti-gay clubs action
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) - The Utah
Legislature's passage of a law banning
gay student clubs in public
schools ~ as rebuked by the state's
Episcopal Diocese.
In a statement issued on behalf of
the Right Rev. George E. Bates, the
diocese's bishop, and the Standing
Committee of the Episcopal Diocese
of Utah, the church denounced the
action taken during the special session.
"Not only have lawmakers blocked
a variety of good and laud'cltory high
school clubs, they have singled out
one particular minority group for
criticism and condemnation," the recruiting tools .
church stated . "First, these (student clubs) have
Episcopal leaders also said the Leg- absolutely nothing to do with
islature had "perpetuated and exac- 'recruiting' someone who is heterosexerbated
the seminal problem of preju- ual into homosexuality," Firmage
dice and bigotry toward gay, lesbian said, dismissing the contention as
and bisexual persons. "absurd."
"We believe God's love and grace "Support groups for our adolescent
are unqualified; that God's accept- children offer simply a safe haven - a
ance of, and love for people is not place where they may be heard and
based on their sexual orientation." understood with loving acceptance of
Also criticizing the bill was Edwin who they are," he added.
B. Firmage, a University of Utah law Firmage also said that-singling out
professor who pointed to proponents a particular group in such a manner
arguments that gay-lesbian support was a "gross and spectacular violagroups
could serve as homosexual tion of human rights."
PAGE 9 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
National News
Big talk or big threat?
Militia preaches 'holy war' against Jews, gays
By Kelly Kurt
· Associated Press Writer
TULSA, Okla. (AP) - The man who
calls himself "prophet of the most
· high" shuffled slowly into the federal
courtroom in early April and
took his seat.
Willie Ray Lampley clasped his
hands and leaned forward _in his
chair as prosecutors flipped on a
video player. Suddenly, his passionate
voice filled the courtroom.
"If you want to have freedom in this
country, you 're going to have to shed
somebody's blood for it," the 65-yearold
says on the video, standing at a
podium dressed in military fatigues.
Lampley preached holy war
against Jews, gays and the government.
But should such talk be considered
rebellious rhetoric or real
threat?
."I take it dead seriously," said Morris
Dees, the head of the Southern
Poverty Law Center and one of Lamp.
ley's alleged targets.
While the trial for Lampley and
two other Oklahomans accused of
plotting to bomb buildings continued,
Dees' group issued a report warning of
a growing threat of domestic
violence.
"Unless we take decisive steps now
to respqpd to this threat, it is only a
matter of time before the country
endures another nightmare like the
Oklahoma City tragedy," Dees wrote
to Attorney General Janet Reno in a
letter accompanying the report.
A bomb destroyed the federal building
in Oklahoma City on April 19,
1995, killing 168 people and injuring
more than 500.
In "False Patriots: The Threat of
Antigovernment Extremists," the law
center's militia task force identifies
800 anti-government "patriot" groups,
including 441 unauthorized militias
nationwide.
The members of these groups often
are linked by an apocalyptic belief in
a "New World Order," a totalitarian
government intent on disarming its
citizens, Dees said.
"These people are training because
they believe our government has
turned on our own citizens," he said.
Lampley believed troops were
amassing in Mexico to install the new.
world government in the ·united
States. Civil rights centers, gays and
the federal government are part of
the movement, according to literature
he distributed.
Attorneys for Lampley and two others
accused in the case plan tu show a
METHODISTS, bishops said. "We will continue our
responsibility to the order and discipline
of the church but urge United
Methodist churches to open the doors
in gracious hospitality to all brothers
and sisters in the faith."
From Previous Page
Discipline against gays and lesbians
within our church and within our
ordained and diaconal ministries." Portions of the Disciplinary para graphs
to which the bishops refer
say: - the church does not condone the
practice of homosexuality and considers
the practice "incompatible with
Christian teaching;" - "self-avowed
practicing homosexuals are not to be
accepted as candidates, ordained as
Nevertheless, they affirmed their
commitment to uphold the Discipline
-of the church.
"We believe it is time to break the
silence and state where we are on this
issue that is hurting and silencing
countless faithful Christians," the
BIBLICHL ETHICS HND HOMOSEHUHLITY
Listening to Scripture
Robert L. Brawley, editor
This bold new book offers a challenge to the
church to give heed to the multiplicity of voices
that are engaged .in biblically responsible and
constructive debates about the volatile issues
regarding se,uality.
Contributors include Robert Brawle.y, J.
Andrew Dearman, Elizabeth Gordon Edwards,
Dale B. Martin, Ulrich W. Mauser, Sarah J.
Melcher, Choon-Leong Seow. Jeffery Siker and
Herman C. Waetjen.
Biblical Ethics and Homosexuality,
$16.99, paperback
ORDER FROM SECOND STONE PRESS.
SEEPAGE 22.
PAGE 10 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
government informant led three
otherwise peaceful, law -abiding citizens
astray.
The head of a militia in nearby
Eufaula sees the case as a government
trap, designed to help get a restrictive
anti-terrorism bill through Congress.
"I think he was a puppet and the
strings were being pulled," said Ross
Hullett, the leader of the Oklahoma
■
guy who kicks in my door is bought
and paid for," said Hullett, 67.
No bomb was never detonated in the
Lampley case, but federal agents said
they found ingredients at his home
similar to those used in the bomb in
Oklahoma City. .
Dees said that unless more is done to
control militia groups, more violence
on the scale of the bombing is imminent.
"If you want to have freedom in this
country, you're going to have to shed ·
somebody's blood for it..."
Citizens Militia.
The biggest threat isn't the talk of
militias, Hullett said, but that of
people like Dees who "are pushing
the disarmament of the American
government."
"We're not out to overthrow the
government, but when they declare
war on the people or turn foreign
troops on the people, then the first
ministers, or appointed to serve The
United Methodist Church;" - no
churchwide money may be given to
any "gay caucus or group" or be used to
"promote the acceptance of homosexuality."
Among the signers ·was West Ohio
Conference Bishop Judit'.1 Craig, one
of seven female bishops in the
church. Craig delivered the bishops'
statement - the first woman to do so
in the 184-year history of General
Conferences. Also signing was Bishop
Melvin Talbert of San Francisco, president
of the National Council of
Churches and a member of the Executive
Committee of the World Council
of Churches .
The 11 active bishops signing the
statement were: Craig; Talbert; William
W. Dew Jr., Portland (Ore.)
Area; Calvin D. McConnell, Seattle
Area; Susan M. Morrison, Philadelphia
Area; Fritz Multi, Kansas Area;
Donald A. Ott, Michigan Area;
Sharon Zimmerman Rader, Wisconsin
Area; Roy I. Sano, Los Angeles Area;
Mary Ann Swenson, Denver Area; and
Joseph H. Yeakel, Washington Area.
Retired bishops signing the statement
were: C. Dale White, Newport,
-R.J.; Jesse R. DeWitt, Naperville,
Ill.; Leontine T.C. Kelly, San Mateo,
■
"What does it take for a guy to mix
up a batch of ammonium nitrate? To
put a car in front of our building ... and
blow it up?" he said. "You don't just
say, 'This is just some old kook.'
"We can expect more bombs," Dees
said. "Oklahoma City wasn't the
first. It was the worst ... but I
seriously don't think it will be the
last ."
Calif.; and Melvin G. Wheatley ·Jr .,
Laguna Hills, Calif.
The Rev. David A. Seamands of
Nokomis, Florida, said that he supported
the anti-gay church policy as
"our basic, bottom-line biblical and
theological standard on sexual practices."
Luis Travino, a delegate from Mexico,
asked the conference to remember
the church in Mexico and Latin America,
where homosexuality is not
accepted.
"Methodism is not only yours. Don't
make us ashamed to be United Meth odists."
Others argued for a change. ,
''The church must be careful not to
condemn when it doesn 't have a
really clear basis," said the Rev.
Philip Wogaman, pastor at Foundry
United Methodist Church in
Washington, D.C. "My friends, we
need one another. We need healing on
this issue ."
The Board of Church and Society
had recommended dropping the condemnation
of homosexuality and
replacing it with the statement that
the church "has been unable to arrive
at a common mind on the compatibil ity
of homosexual practice with
Christian faith."
About our Resource Guide ...
The churches, organizations and publications
listeq. below are resources for gay,
lesbian and bisexual Christians. Listmgs
are correct and up to date through May 11,
19%. Accuracy of an organization's listi!'
g is the responsibility of the organization.
We apologize for any omissions. Corrections
may be sent to P.O. Box 8340, New
Orleans, LA 70182. In most cases, area
codes are listed in the city heading only.
National
AFFIRMATION: Gay & Lesbian Mormons, P.O. Bo,c -46022, Los
~A~A~o=ii~~~~~~,;\ll' Gay & Lman Concerns, P.O.
Box 1021, Evlrlsbl , IL692()4. (708)733·95.90.
AlDS NATIONAl. lNTERFAfll1.NE1WORK, 110 M81)1and Ave., NE,
Si>. 50<, Washingtai, OC 20002. (202)5'6-0807, (800)288-9619, FAX
(202)~&5103. Plblication: lnl8'acfon.
AMERICAN BAPTISTS CONCERNED, 13318 Cla•eponte Way,
Oakland, CA9<C619-3531. (510)-465-8652. Voice oltie Tur'de
AMERICAN CML LIBERTIES UNION, Gay,tes~an Aig,IS Projel1_
132West43"dSt, New York.NY 10036.
AMERICAN FRIENDS $ERVICE COMMITTEE (Quaker) 22-49 E.
&mside SI., POlfand, OR 97214. (503)m!M27.
ASSOCIATION OF WELCOMING ANO AFFIRMING BAPTISTS,
P.O. Bo~ 2596, Atleboro Fa/ls, MA 02763~. VfF (508)~5.
WABaphts~aol.com. http:Alsers.aol.comNtabaptists. A network of
churches, O(ganizations and inciviaJals who welcome and a~ocate Zi:rc~~ =~rd::~: gay, and bisexual peoplewitiln lhe
AXIOS: Eastern and Ortlodox ams~ans. 328 w. 17tti St l◄ •F, New
YorkNY 10011. (212-11 .
BALM MINISTRIES, P:O.S::>x 1981, Costa Mesa, CA 92628.
(71-4)641-8968. Ma,ooa Stevens,silger/soigwriler. SUzarme MeKeag,
manager.
BLK Magazine, Box 83912, Los Aflge!es, CA 90083-0912. {310) ◄10--
0808.
BRETHREN/MENNONITE PARENTS OF LESBlAN/GAY CHILDREN,
Box 1708, l.ma, OH 45802.
BRETHREN / MENNONITE COUNCIL FOR LESBlAN AND GAY
CONCERNS. Box 6300, Minneapolis, MN 55406-0300. {612)305-
0315. BMCouncil@aol.com. h~1hvww.w~.cooi,bmc/5upport
for Brethren and Mennonile gay, lesbian, and bisexual people, and ~:+ro~c5
C~~~e1n~esGA~gi1~tR~~f:.~~~~~ew
Yak, NY 10159. (718)629-2927.
CATHOLIC PARENTS NElWORK, c/o Fr. Robert Nugen\ 637 Cover r~~=@~Ss2.:\Wt (301)927-8766, FAX (301)864-6948.
CENTER FOR HOMOPHOBlA EDUCATION, Box 1985, New York,
NY 10159.(301)86 ◄ -8954. ·
CHI AHO ~RESS• A special wo,k of the UFMCC Mid-Attantic Dis•
trict Publisher of religious books and materials. P.O. Box 7864,
g~~=~ ·l~g~J:·b~~~~~ ·ER. P.O. Box 10062, Corum·
bos, OH 43201.
COMMON BONO (former Jehovah's Witnesses, Morm011s) Box 405,
Elwood, PA 16117. (412)758-0704.
COMMUNICATION MINISTRY, INC.· Dialogue and support goop /or
gay and lesbian Catholic clergy and religious._P.O. Box 60125, Chi·
cago, IL 60660-0125. Publication: Communication
CONFERENCE FOR CATHOLIC LESBIANS, P.O. Box 436 Planeteri1.1n
Sin., New Ycrk, NY 10024. (718)921-o-463.
DAUGHTERS OF SARAH· The magazine for Ouistian Feminists,
3801 No. Keeler,Chicag>, IL00641, (312)7=99.
OIGNITYAJSA, 1500 Massachusetts Ave., NW, S1e. 11, Wash1ngtori,
OC 20005. (202)861-0017, FAX (202) ◄ 29·9808. Gay and lesbian
Calllolics and their friends.
ECUMENICAL CATHOLIC CHURCH, P.O. Box 32, Villa Grande.
CA 95486-0032. (707)865-0119, FAX, (707)865-2437. The Mos! Rev.
Mark s. Shirilau, Ph.D. plusmark@aol.com. Publicaliori: The Tablet
EROSPIRIT RESEARCH INSTITUTE, P.O. Box 3893, Oakland, CA
94609. (510)◄ 28-9063 . NetNork ol gay and lesbian ecstatics offering
~AfJG~t~C6"N~~~Nft~:~i . Ralph Blair, 311 East 72nd
st , New York, NY 10021. (212)517•3171. Publicatioos: Review and
Recad
THE EVANGELICAL NElWOAK, Box 16104, Phoenix, Iv.. 85011.
(002)265-2831.
FEDERATION OF PARENTS ANO FRIENDS OF LESBIANS ANO
GAYS, INC. P.O. Box 27605, Washinglon, OC 20038.(202)638-4200.
. ~:IJSooFi~a~~':A~f':~ti~AY CONCERNS (C\Jakers) 143
Campbell Ava., l~aca. NY 14850. (607)272-1024, FAX (607)272· 0801. GAY ANO LESBlAN PARENTS COALITION INTERNATIONAJ., P.O.
Box 50360, Washington, OC20091. (202)583·8029. Publication: Nel•
W"'1t
GAY, LESBlAN ANO AFFIRMING DISCIPLES Al.LIANCE, P.O. Box
~~·~~:~n~;~'r~:~~ChW~1f)~t!~~~~~~:s~1
GAYELLOW PAGES • P.O. Box 292, Village Sin., New York, NY
10014. (212)674-0120.
t?~~~~ ~~~•:'~u~~~~.l~~l~r~~/~~~• c/o Da~d
HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN, 1101 14th SI., NW, Ste. 200, Washilg--
1ai, 0C 20005. (202)628- ◄ 100.
INDEPENDENT CHURCH OF RELIGIOUS SCIENCE, ◄102 East 7~
St., #209, long Beadl, CA 90804. (310) ◄33-0384.
INNER HEALING, 22385 Bayview His., Los OSos, CA 93402.
f~5fc;3~j.g.~1
1N~~;,eg:~;~1~~York, NY 10185·5255.
(201 )868·2485. Publication: The Voice of lnteg1ty
INTERNATIONAL FREE CATHOLIC COMMUNION, P.O. Box
51158. Riverside, CA 92517·2158 (909)781·7391 Publication: The
Free Catholic Communicant
•UNIVERSAL FELLOWSHIP OF METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY
CHURCHES 5300 Sanla .Monica llvd., #30◄, Los Ang~es, CA
900~. {213)464-5100. Ptbhcation: K~ngin Touch
WILDERNESS MANNA, 140◄ Arnold Ave., San Jose, CA 95110.
~:_)451·9310. A Christian _environmental ministry; newslel!e< and
THE WITNESS, Pu~ished by ~a Episcop~ Church f\J~ishing Co.,
~Washington Bvd., Ste. 3115, Oe•oit. Ml 48226·1868. (313)962·
WOMEN'S AWANCE FOR THEOLOGY, ETHICS AND RITUAL, ~m1~~~~~i~tt~~0
20910 (301 )589-2509, FAX (301 )589-
WOMEN'S ORDINATION CONFERENCE, P.O. Box 2693, Fairfax,
VA 22031-0693. (703)352-1006.
THE WOMEN~ PROJECT, 2224 Main St , Liffle Rock, AR 72206.
_ ~f~~2~~~orkSlops on women's issues, social justice, racism
INTERNATIONAL GAY ANO LESBIAN ARCHIVES, The Nalalie WOOOSWOMEN•Ac1Jenhlre1r,i~forwcrnen,25W.Oiamondl.ake
~~:(~~)~~:t~~bl~~~-~~ti~x 38100, Hollyirtood, CA ~t~~~~is, MN 55419, (800)279-0555, (612)822-3809, FAX
INTERWEAVE, 25 Beacon st, Boston,_MA 02108. (617)742·2100. A
lay organizatioof Unitarian UniversaHsls fol' lesbian, bisexual, gay
and tr«isgender concerns.
LAMBDA CHURCH GROWTH INSTITUTE, P.O. Box 370, Aulhe,
Glen, VA 225'6. (804)448-2031. FAX (804)◄48 ·3146. Church g0\V1h
~~{aTr~ :~~~!i~ gayAesbian churches. Rev. James N.
LESBIAN CATHOLICS WITNESSING FOR CHANGE, Box 3&91,
New York, NY 10185-3891. (718j680;;107.
LIFELINE BAPTISTS, Rev. James T. Williams, Sr., M.O. 8150 Lakecresl
Or., Greenbel\ MO 20770.
LIVING PENS, PO Box 254, Avoca, AR 72711--025◄. Pen pals for
HIV/AIDS indvidlals.
LIVING STREAMS, P.O. Box 178, Concord, CA 9◄522-0178. S·
r~~l~WJ%~cERNED I NORTH AMERICA Box 10◄61, Fort
=.ri1~ti~b~:ifriJLF~1~~~~~~ •;;.;:;:g,
mulH'lssue neM'ork, 76 Cfintori Ave., Slaten ls-land, 10301-1107
(71S)273·MFSA. ·Publicam: Social Ouesions B.JRein.
MERCY OF GOO COMMUNITY, PO Box ◄ 1055 , Providenca, Al
02!M(l-1055. ( ◄01)722·3132. Chrisian, Ecumenical Md inclusive
communify ol' sistecs, broilers and associates.
MORE LIGHT CHURCHES NElWOAK, 600 W. Fullerton Pkwy.,
cticag,, llt;a;1 ◄-2690, (312)338-0452. Resourcepad<e\ $12. f\Jbfi-
:~6~A~ ~~~ON Nowt~rJ~ IOCESAN LESBIAN
ANO GAY MINISTRIES, ◄33 Jetferson st., Oakland, CA 94607.
. (510)465·93 ◄-4. Newsleller and nalional conference.
~~ONla~oo'ER FOR LESBIAN RIGHTS· 166.'3 Mission St, 51h
Fir., San Francisco, CA94103.
NATIONAL CONGRESS FOR LESBIAN CHRISTIANS PO Box 814
Capi1oa, CA 95010 (800)861-NCLC. , '
NATIONAL COALITION OF Bl.ACK LESBIANS ANO GAYS, P.O.
Box 192◄8, Wa!hingtori, DC 20036.
NATIONAJ.COUNCILOFCHU~HES, ◄75 Aive,gde Or., Naw York,
NY 10115. AlOSTask Force, AC0'11572, (212)870--2421. Hum!Wl Sex•
~~gf,,~'to<;JroWt~t~J~~k. Washington Office 110 Mar-
~and Ave., NE, Wasllin<1on, OC 20002. (202)5' ◄ ·2350. '
NA TIONAJ. ECUMENICAL COAJ.mON, 1953 Colum~, Pike 12◄,
M'1glon, VA2220<-4569. (703)553-8931.
();'.!l;~,~~~Blr T~~~t~~~ 7NW,
NATIONAL GAY. PENTECOWl.L ALUANCE (also Pentecostal
~~1
1
~1s:,~e 1~~tr.::t~~~ti~~~=f:.af, NY
NEW OIREC~ON Magazine for gsyAesbian Mormons, 6520 Selma
Ave., Ste. AS·◄.«>, Los Mgeles, CA 90028. ·
NEW W,A:YS MINISTRY, ◄012 291h st., Ml Rainier, MD 20712,
:~~7~!~~(3~:-::d~r~:~I\:~~~
OPfN i AFFIRMING t1NISTR1El, Gay, Lesbian and Affirming Disciples.
Alliance, Rev. Alleo V. Harris. cJo 1010 Park Ave., New York,
~~~:is:!1
m\~:Jl:0~4:~ri::~~ur~(J:~~C:~~-)
which seek to welcome and affirm test1an. gay, and bisexual PE!f·
sons.
THE OTHER SIDE Magazine, 300 W. Apsley St, Pl'll!adelphia, PA
~!!!~2s~5)849-2t 78. Publishes articles ol interest to jl'ogessive
OTHER SHEEP Multicultur11I Minislries with Sexual Minormes 319
N. Four1h 11902, SI. lou!s, MO 63102·193.S. (3U)241·2400.' FAX
(314)2 ◄1·2403. E--rnail: 9herzog@aol.com. Theological and ed!ca•
~~j~r=al~·;:s~,1:l~nstn:!~Z:~~~ .positive
PRESBYTERIANS FOR LESBIAN & GAY CONCERNS, P.O. Box
38, New Brun,.ick, NJ 08903-0338. (908)932-7501, (900)249-1016.
Publication: More Uglt Update
PRISM, 733 15trl St., NW, Ste. 317, Washington. DC 20005·2112.
(202)3 ◄7•3313. Dva--sity wOO:shops for chu-ches and g~.
RECONCILING CONGREGATION PROGRAM, 3801 N. Keeler Ave., g;:?;°~ 60641. (312)73&-5526. FX (312)736•5◄ 75. Publication:
REFORMED CHURCH IN AMERICA GAY CAUCUS, P.O. Box 817◄
Philadeph!a, PA 19101·8174 '
RELIGION WATCH, P.O. Box 652, Nor#l Bellmore, NY 11710. A
$~~s1Se~~~~origi~~c%~xct~rs~~~~~ION, 1205 No.
~~¥Z~~'¼ t~~ ~~rotffe~tsJ~3k8~·We:C{k 01 the
American OthOOOx Catholic Church o!St Gregxios, P.O. Box 1543,
~~\rN"ftf°6W2o~~i
3
JiNSHIP INTERNATIONAL, Box ~~c~:,~~~ecroo 90078-3840. (617)436-5950. (213)87&-2076.
SILENT HARVEST MINISTRIES, PO Box 190511, Dallas, TX 75219-
0511. (21 ◄)520-6655.
SUPPORTIVE CONGREGATIONS NETWORK, Mennonite and
Brethren, PO Box 6300, Minneapolis, MN 55406·0300.
SCNetwork@aol.com. A network ol Mennonite, General Conference
Mennonite and Oml'ch oflhe Brethren congegatiooswhich welcome
gay, lesbian Elld bisexual members.
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST OFFICE FOR LESBIAN/GAY CON·
CERNS, 25 Beacon st. Boston, MA02108. (617)742·2100.
UNITED CHURCH COAJ.mON FOR LESSjAN i GAY CONCERNS,
18 N. College, Athens, OH ◄ 5701, (GU) 593-7301. Publication:
Waves
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST, Office for Olurch in Society, 110
Marylllfld Ave., NE, Washilglcn, OC 20002. (202)5-43-1517.
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST PARENTS OF LESBIANS ANO
GAYS, c/o Rev. Juditti aaussen, Bruce Rennie, 505 Orchard tx.,
C.-bonda~.IL62901.(618)◄ 57·5◄ 79.
UNITED LESBIAN ANO GAY CHRISTIAN SCIENTISTS· Box 2171,
~::oR= ~'h ~;~:~:;~N~~~~:v~:~,11. Beverly Hil s, CA 90213-2171. (213)85().8258
UNITY FELLOWSHIP CHURCH, 51 ◄9 W. Jefferson Blvd., Los
Angeles, CA 90016. (213 )936-49◄ 9, FAX (213)938-4973.
International
Liberty" Community Church, Ste. ◄02·2388 Triumph St, Vancouvef,
OC V5L1l5 Canada (604)254-0'.182. Sun., 6:30p.m. at Sl John's
United Church. 1401 comox St, Vancouver, BC.
~ct::·:lt~e:~t~~~j~7~~~:~~o~At!::~~:~~
tor . .
Alabama
BIRMtlGHAM(205)
.AJabama Forum, PO 8ox 55894, 35255-5894 328-9228
Srmilg1am Com1T1Jntty ChU1ch, PO Box 130221, 35213. 849-8505.
Covenant MCC, PO Box 101◄ 73, 35210. 599·3363. Sun 118 m
7p.m.51171s1Ave.,N. ., · ·•
Frioi<II Meelilg (Clulk8!S), 592-0570.
ln1~.871-1815.
Pitgim Coog-ega.tional Churd'l, 879--162◄ .
StAncl'eW's EpiacopalC!lurch,251-7898.
Unitarian Universalisl Congegstion, 879-5150.
I.JrjtyC!lurch,251-0713
HUNTSVIU.E (205)
MCC of Huntsville, PO Box 10021, 35801. 851-6914.
MO!IILE (205) ~CCJb~':~:g:,x 6311, 36660-6311. ◄ 76·4621. SUnday, 7pm.
• MCC, PO Box 603, 3610H)603. 264·7887. Sunday, 5:30p.m. al5280
Vlllg>nAd.
Alaska
PALMER(907)
Church of the Covenan~ P.O. 8ox 2888, 996◄5. 746·1089.Howard H.
~ . pas1or. A Welcoming and Affirming American "Baptist Coog-egs!
ion.
Arizona
MESA
Boundess LoveCommunit)'Church, 2128 N 641h St, 85215-2811.
PHOENIX (602)
Alfirmation (Mormons), PO Box 26601, Tempe, 85285-6601. ◄ 33·
1321.
Casa De Cristo Evangelical Church, 1029 E. Turney, 8501 ◄. 265--
2831.
Oig,i~lrllegily, PO Box 60953, 85082-0953. 258·2558.
Gentle ShephErd MCC, 3◄25 E. Mountain View, 85028. 996-7644.
Healing Waters Ministries, 225 W. University Dr., #105, Tempe.
85281. 89+a681.
l.utleuris CortCEmed, PO Box 7519, 85011. 87()..3611.
Oasis MCC, 2405 E. c«onado, 85008. 275-3534.
Presbylerianslor Lesbian &Gay Cortcems, PO Box 61162, 85082.
TUCSON (520)
Casa De Le Paloma Apostolic Church, PO Box 1-4003, 85732·4003.
323-6855. 1122 N. Jones Bvd Rev. Margaret "Sandy Lewis, pasb'.
Cornerstone Fellowship, 2902 N. Geronimo, 85705. 622·4626. Sun·
day, 9a.m., 10:30a.m., We<ilasday, ~ .m. Recla Schaff, pastor.
lntegity, c/o Grace St Paul's Episcopal Church, 2331 E. Adams St,
85719. 7!11 -7◄30 .
MCC, 3269 N. Moun tan Ave., 85719. 292·9151.
Man's Social Network, ◄207 N. Umber1osl Cir., 85705. 690·9565.
SOCial activities IOI"' gay men ol all ages.
EUREKA SPRINGS (501)
MCC of~e Living Springs, PO Box 365, 72632. 253-9337. 178k
FAYETTEVILLE (501) ·
Ecumenical Catholic Church, ◄◄ 4 ·9692. Paul Smith, contact person.
MCC ol lhe Ozarks, PO Box 92, 72702--0092. 443·4278.
Restoration Fellowship in Jesus Christ, P.O. Box 3820, 72702. ◄◄ 4·
9692. Rev. Elci!f Joseph Paul Smith. jpaul111@aol.com.
LITTLE ROCK (501)
8cxt; o!Christ, PO Box 136◄ , 72203. 374•1693.
Holy Cross Ecumenical Cath.olic Church, 663-6859. Fr. Christopher
Ehemann
Hope Apostolic Church, P.O. Box ◄563, 7221 ◄. 663-3711. TOD 663·
i~6·!tr,~~~~tr964~~~~_' fti~fQ75_ 2017 Chan~
der, NO. Little Rock.
~r~t =~ -PO Box 586, 72203. 223·2828. Sunday, 2p.m. al ~:_nan Universatist ChlKch, 1818 Reservoir Rock Rd, 72207. 225--
California
APPLE VALLEY (619)
Ug'lt ol the Desert Church, PO Box 247, 92307. 247•2572. SUnday,
6:lOp.m.
A RAO YO GAANOE (9J5)
~~~~J~r Catiolfc Church .A9ostolate, 258 Aspen St , 111,
BLYTHE(619)
Gocfs Garden Growl'! Cenlt!', 283 N. Solano.922-0947. Bro. Michael
W.Tucker,paslor.
CONCORD (510)
Free Catholic Apostolate of !he Redeemer. 1440 Detroit Ave. #3
94520. 798-5281. ' '
EAST BAY AAEA (510)
~ablo Valley MCC, 2253 Concord Blvd.. Concord, 94520. 827•2960.
Sunday, 108.m,, 7p.m.
Firs1 Baptist Church, 2345 Channing Way, Berkeley, 94704. 848·
~ - Esther Hargis, pas!_or. Meets in small chapel of First Coog-ega•
~~al Church. A Welcoming and Affirming American Bap~st Conge--
rr!e00Catholic Apostol ate of tie Redeemer, 3849 Maybelle Ave. #8
9◄619. 53(>-7055. ' '
Gay, Lesbian, and Affirming Disciples, Univ. Christian Church,
Berkeley. Third&m ., 4p.m.
lakeshOfe Avenue Bapist ChUfch, 3534 Lakeshore Ave., Oakland,
~10. 8~2464. ~ames H. H~lns, pas!«. A Welcomi'lg and Alfir~
mg Arnenca.n Baptist congegation.
New Life MCC, 1823 911 St., Eiefkelay, 9<710. 843-9355. SUndey,
12~m.
Presbyterians !or lesbian & Gay Concerns, 3900 Harrison st., Oakland,
94611. 653-2134.
IRVINE(714)
Irvine United Ch~rch of Chris~ 4915 Alton Pkwy., 92714. 733·0220.
~ OP:(ln & Affirming Congegation, proucty progessive, intentionally
inclusive.
LANCASTER (805)
Sunrise MCC ol the Hi Desert, PO Box 886, 93584-0886. 942·7076.
LONG BEACH (310)
Diglity, PO Box 92375, 90809-2375. 9&4-8400.
FirSt Congegational Church, 2◄ 1 Ceder Ave., 90802. ◄36·2256. AA
Open and Affirming Coogegation of Iha Un led Church ol Ctfist
MCC, 1231 Locu~Ave., 90813-311 ◄. ◄ 32-3641.
LOS ANGELES AREA (213) ·
~~~~
1
~l=~~e0lodsts), PO Box ◄6022, West Hollywood,
Chris1 tie Shepherd Lutheran Church, 185W. Altade'la Dr., Altadena
91001.(818)79+70(1. '
Crescent Heights UMC, 1296 No. Fairfax Ave., West Hollywood,
900◄6. 656-5336.
Oig,ity, PO Box ◄20◄0, 90042-00<0. 344-8064.
Dignity&n Gabriel Valley, 502 Mesa Cir., Monrovia, 91016-1638.
(818)62()-5167.
Divine Rede·emer MCC, 346 Riv8f'dale Or., Glendale, 91204.
~500--712◄. SUnday, 10:-458.m., Wed., Fri., 7:30p.m. Rev. Stan
Ecumeoical Catiolic Chl.lfch in Huntington Park, 589-6903. Fr. Otilio
Gallo. ~ish-speaking ca,17egation.
Evangelicials Together, 7985 Santa Monica Blvd., #109, Box 16.
900◄ 6. 6.56-8570. ET News
Free Spi~il MC9, _5208 Hartwick St, 9004H 515. 464·5100. Sunday,
6p.m., pnson m1nisby.
Hoy Trinity Community Church, PO Box ◄ 296 ◄, 900◄2. 38◄-5◄22.
3323 W. Beve,-ty llvd.
lnteg-ily, 7985 Santa Monica Blvd., #109·113, West Hollywood,
90046. fl62.6301.
Lambda Christian Fellowship, PO Box 1967, Hawthorne, 90251.
La~n Church ol Christian Fellowship, 3323 W. Beverly Blvd., 90004.
◄33-2047.
Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Refigous Coalition, 7985 Santa Monica
Bvd., #109, Box 104, 900◄ 6.
Lutherans Concerned, 11225 Magnolia Blvd., Box 290, No. Holly·
wood,91601. 665--lCNA. ~f~7
~~:Jalley, 5730 Cahuenga Blvd., No. Hollywood, 91601.
~CC of the Vineyards, 11012 Venlul'a Bvd., #125◄, Stucio City, CA
91oo+3546. MCC otSi/verlake, 3621 Brunswick Ave., 90039--1727. 665-8818.
New Hope Christian Church, PO Box 316, Van Nuys, 91 ◄08.
(818)765-1590. SUlday, Sp.m. al9550Haskell Ave.
Presbyterians_ tor Lesbian & Gay Concerns. 3373 Oescanso Dr., 11,
90026. 262-8019. .
Seventh Day Awentist Kinship tnterna~ooal, PO Box 3840, 90078·
3840. 876-2076.
St. John's Episcopal Church, 514 W. Adams Blvd, 90007. 747-6285.
SI. Matthew's Lutheran Church, 11031 Camarillo St., No. Hollywood,
91002. (818)762-2909. ASLintEJpretatia, frst and last Sm.
~~~~~f;I~;~O=~~cientisls , PO Box 2171, Beverty'
~~~fJ,Chllch, 51 ◄9W . Jefferson Svd., 90016. 936-4948.
MCC, PO Box 3092. 95353-3092. 578-3694.
NAPA(707)
~~~i~ec~~e~y~;~~)Viltage Pkwy., 94558. 255-6917.
Chrisl Chapel MCC, 720 N. Spurgeon st., Santa Ana, 92701 ·3722.
635-0722
Ecumenical Catholic Church, 979•1840. Yadira Taylor, contact persoo.
.
Evangelicals Concerned South Coasi PO Box ◄ 308, Costa Mesa,
92628·◄ 3~. 222·4933. Bible study, fellowship meetings, prayer
,~~ss:;~~~~~~j·
Christ Chapel o! the Desert, 938 Vela Ad., 92264. 327·2795.
~~i~·::
46e~e.,{::0 ~;:,~~:~:9
cf:~~i~: ·322.
9696,
RBJONOO BEACH (310)
Center loc Passionate Spiritualltj, 2607 Harriman Ul., #1, 90278-4547.
374•n18. Rich Rossiter, drector. Spiritual cireetion, retreals andlor·
mation events tor ~ib/1 persons.
REOWOOO CITY (◄ 15)
Calvary MCC, PO Box 70, 9-4064-0007. 368-0188. 2124 BrewstEr St.
RIVERSIDE (909)
CommunttyofChristlhe Life Giver, PO Box 51158, 92517. 781-7391.
~g~~x~~:1
i~te~lle, 95446. 887-7622. 869-0552. 14520
Armstong WOOOO Ad.
SACRAMENTO (916)
Oi!lf'~. PO Box 161765, 95816.
Koin01a Christian Fellowship, PO Box 189444. 95818. 452-5736.
Tom Rossi,paslor.
The latest Issue, PO Box 160584, 95816. 737-1088.
River City MCC, PO Box 245125, 95824. 454•4762. 27◄1 34th St.
SALINAS(◄ O~
lntegity, c/o Church of the Good Shepherd, 301 Corral de Tierra,
93908. 294-2026.
SAN ANDREAS (209) ~"ftN:~:rsfve Apl 4, Tunock, 95380-2626. 478-3515.
Spectrum, 1000Sir Francis Drake EWvd.,#12,9-4960. 457·1115 .
SAN BERNARDINO/RIVERSIDE/POMONA (909)
Affirmation {Methodsts), 1325 N. Claremont, Box 302, aaremon~
91711.624-2159.
Claremont United Methodist Church, 211 W. Football Bvd., Clare•
~:!o9b~~~:·~~~·~~6:1~8 ~giti;e.TI~~o~ : aa1-
5025. Moo.-SSt, 7p.m.·12am.
St Aelreds Parish, Sarum Episcopm Church (Cid Ca~olic), 1580 No.
0 ·st., Ste. 5 , San Bernardino, 92 ◄05 . 384·1940.
PBreton714@aol.com. Rev. Df.J. E. Paul Breton, pas1:or. Wed., 7p.m.;
sun., 11a.m.
SAN DIEGO AAiEA (619)
J ffirmalion (Mormons), PO 8ox 86469, 92138-6-469. ◄89-6602.
Ancha Minislries, 3441 UniverSty Ave., 92104. 284-8654. Cherismat•
ic, full gospel church.
Dig1ity. PO Box 33367, 92163. Dig1ity Center, 4561 Park Hvd. 295-
258◄.
lnEg-ily, PO 8ox 34253, 92163-0801. 234·1829.
MCC in theCoonby, 3901 Manzanita Cx.,#C, 92105. 282·8488. Son•
:&:"PE·~~:r:2'f~3~1. 261H3l3. 4333 30thSI.
Pacific Beach United Melhods1 Church, 1561 Thomas, 92109. 274• .
6573. Sun., t0 :158.m.
SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA (◄ 15)
Digity , 132971lAve., 94122. 255--9244. SUOOiy, 5:3(:p.m.
PAGE 11 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Resource Guide
Do\OfeSlraet 8ap1st Church, 938 Valencia St. at Liberty, 94110.
826-26-41. Fl>X, 282·2826. Drug llool"f, i>'SI«. q,a12031iaol.rom
G~des GateMCC, 1500Cllurcl1 S1.,94131-2018.
Freedom In Quist Evangelical Church, P.O. Box 1 ◄462 , San Fran,
CA 9-411 ◄. 905-6509. sun., 1:30p.m. at 50 Belcher Sl, between 141h
Stand l)Jboce.
Lulherans Coocerned, 566 Vallejo St , 125, 94133-4033. 956-2069.
AdVent
MCC, 150 Eureka SL, 94114-2492. 863•4434. SUnday, 9, 11a.m.,
7pm.
Oasis/California, 110 Julian Ave., 94103. 522·0222.
oasiscatft~aol.com. Gay and lesbian minis~ of the Episcopal
Diocese of California. ~:~:.~~~:r~::~s~C:cls~~~:n~~:ee~n2:.~~:p leaders. .
Trinity EpiScq>al Church, 1668E\lshSt.,94109. ns.1111.
Unitarian Universa11s1 Gay/1..eSIBi, 1187 Franklin, 94109. 731·3.915.
UCClJ3C, 20Woodside Ave., 94127. 576-1554.
SAN JOSE (408)
Dig,ify, PO Box 21n, Santa Clare, 95055.977·4218.
Ecomenfcal Catt,olic Church, 374-3430. Scott Burris, contact person.
First Christian Church, 80 S. 5th St., 95112. 294·29◄◄. Richard K.
Miller,pastor.
Gay, Lesbian, and Affirming Disciples, c/o Firs! Christian Church, 80
SO. 51h St, 95112. 294·2944.
Hosanna Churd'I of Prais-e, 24 N. 5111 St, 95112. 293-()708.
MCC, PO Box 2288, 95109·2288. 279·2711. 65 S. 7!'1 St Sunday,
6::rop.m., Wed, 7~ .m.
New Community ol Faith, 6350 Rainbow Dr., 95129. 253·1408.
~~~hfffi~~!~~~t~~tr~tJ:/ssocia!e . A Welcoming
Valley West Church, 591 W. Hammon Ave., Sle. 215, Campbell, CA
95008{)521. 379-0740.
SAN LEANDRO (510)
San Leancio Community Church, 1395 Bancroft Ave., 954n. ◄83·
~1J·Li~~~~r5~ot"t°'·
MCC of Greater Hayward, 100 Hacienda, 94580. 481-9720. Sun.,
12.30pm.
SAN LUIS OBISPO (80~
MCC of the Cent:a! Coss~ PO Box 1117,.Grover City, 93483·1117.
~1:l~~C:~~~tTJ~o~~,!~f'5;stlr
·
MCC, 230 Liglttouse Ad., San\8 Barbara, 93109-1905. 569·1615.
MCC, PO Box 25610, Ventura, 93002. 643-()502. Sunday,.6:20p.m. at
4949 Foolhill Ad.
SANT A CRUZ (408)
Lavender Road MCC,PO 8aK 1764, 95061. 335-0466.
SANTA ROSA (707)
Ecumenical Catholic Church, 865-0119. Archbishop Mark Shir~au.
New Hope MCC, PO Box 11278, 95406·1278. 526·HOPE. Sunday,
noon al3632ftirway Dr.
STOCKTON (209)
Christian Scieoce Lesbians, Box 7104, 95267-7104. 473·2129.
Delta HSI\1851 MCC, 116W. Wilow SL, 95202·1045. 477·1-440.
WHITTIER (310)
Good Samaritsn MCC, 11931 Washington ~d., 90606·2607. 696-
6213.
Colorado
BOULDER (303)
Gay & Coocemed Ca1holics, st Thomas ACJ.linas University Parish,
904 1 <th SL, 80302. '43-8383.
COLORADO SPRINGS (719)
Pikes Peak MCC, 730 N. TE1on, 80903. 634·3771.
DENVER (303)
Axios: Eastern Orfiodox Christians, 11635 E. Cedar Ave., Aurora,
80012,343-9997.
Christ Chapel, 922 E. 23-'d Ave., 80205-5111.
Evangelicals Reconciled, PO Box 200111, 80220. 331-2839. Color•
aooSp-ngs, (719)488.,')158.
Luflera,s Concerned, 14◄1 Humboldt st, Apl507,80218·2370. 422·
3176.
MCC orlhe Rockies, 980 Clarkson SI., 80218. 86(>-1819.
St Paul's UMC, 1615 ~ SI., 80218. 832·4929.
PUEBL0(719)
MCC, POBo_x 1918, 81002 543-6460.
Connecticut
HARTRlRD~03)
Central Bap5st Church, 457 Main St, 06103. 522-9275. Paul G. Gil·
lespie, pa:stor. A Welcoming and Affirming American Baptist Conge&
lion. Slflport!Jouplor gaysandlestxans.
M-~~1~ f:~IJS1~i:t1~il:·os. Sunday, 10:3011.m. Meels at
IJ'le Community Cente<. Rev. David F. Jarvis, pastor.
NEW HAVEN (203)
MCC, 34 Harrison SL. 06515. 389-6750.
NOANK(203) f:::~ ~~~~ ~~~\ ~~~~~n~~i:i' n~:~:ns-cia~~~ -,
coor,egafoo.
TOLLAND (203)
UCCUGC, 147Virginia Ln, 06084. 872-6537.
VERNON (860)
Ecumenical Catholic Church Koinonia Ministries, 871-0153. Rev.
Dennis Finnegan.
WATERBURY(203)
ln!egify, c/o St. John's Church, 16 Church St, 06702. 482·4239.
District of Columbia
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA (202)
Affimatioo (Methocists), PO B,x 23636, 20026. 667-0008.
Affirmation {Mormoos) PO Box77504, 20013-7504. 828-3096.
Christ UMC, 4111 & I Sis. SN, 20024. 544·9117.
Oig,fy, PO Box 53001, 20009. 387~516.
DunbM.m UMO, 3133 Dunbcrtoo Ave. NW, 20007. 333·7212.
Fait, Temple, 1313 New YOl'k Ave., 20005. 5«·2766.
lntegify, PO Box 19581, 20036'0561. (301)953·3421. Gaysp,ng
Kimt1ip/Sll4, 140020!hSL, r-l>Nlf607,20036.296-2441.
Lutherans Concerned, 212 E. Capitol St., SE, 20001-1036. (703)486-
3567.
MCC ol tie Disciples, 1638 RSI., NW #1, 20009. 387·5230.
MCC,474 Ridge St., NW,20001. 638•7373. SUnday 9, 11a.m., 7p.m'."'
PLGC, c/o Wesminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I St, SW, 20024.
857·2679.
Riverside Baptist Church, 680Eye St. SW, 20024. 554·4330. Michael
Bedsoe, pasl°'.
Washi ngtoo Friends (Quakers), 2111 Florida Ave., NW 20008. 483·
3_:3:10.
Florida
BOCA R•TON (407)
Church of Our Savi°' MCC, 4770-C NW 2nd Ave., 33431. 998-0454.
Sunday, 10:30a.m., 7:30p.m. Rev.John F. Jacobs, past()(.
- CLEARWATER(813)
Free Gatholic Church ol lhe Resurrection, PO Box 3454, 34615. 442-
3867. 303 N. Myrtle Ave.
COCOA(,07)
~~"JJ';'a~~v~ ~~ PO Box 1585, 32923 631-4524.
Plymouth Congegationsl Oiurch, 3400 Devoo Ad, 33133. 44◄-6521 .
Albs oulreach rrinistry. All are welcome.
SL Stephen's Episcopal Parish in lhe Grove, 2750 Mcfarlane Rd.,
33133. 448-2601. F/>X 4'8·2153. Corrjl(eheosive AIDSminis1!y.
DA YT ONA BEACH (904)
HopeMCC, PO Box 15151, 32115. 254-0993,
FORT lAUDERDALE (305)
Church ol Ile Holy Spirit MCC, 3:J> SW 27th St., 33315. ◄62·2004 .
o;g;~, PO Box 22884, 33335. 463-4528.
FORT MYERS (813) ~~:~~~J":er~00
M~~~A~~)Jif ~;~_~Mi~=:
IClJr, pasiX'.
~~
0n~:~:res:~er~i :ar:~: .
1:n:.0
1
20!~:-,~~!5~:i:
REnne Shawver.
GAINESVILLE (904)
Unied Chllch, 1624 NW Sltl Ave., 32603
JACKSONVILLE (904)
St Luke's MCC, 1140 S. Mcl)Jtt Ave., 32205-7551. 389-7726, F/>X
389-7626 .. Sunday, 9am., 11a.m., 7p.m. Rev. Frankye A. WMe, pastor.
PeaceLlz@aol.com.
KEY WEST (305)
MCC, 1215 Petronia St., 33040. 294·8912. Sunday, 9:30, 11a.m.,
Wed., 7p.m. Rev. Steven M. Torrence, pastor.
KISSIMMEE (407) -
Sts. Perpetua & Felicity Ecumenical Catholic Church. 3◄ 8·5440. Fr.
Berna-do Moralis.
MIAMl(305)
Christ MCC, 7701 &N 76th Ave., 33143. 284-1040.
Grace Cnu,Ch of Miami Shores, 10390 NE 2nd Ave., 33138. 758·
6822. John Arny, pastor. Sun., 11 :30a.m., praise and worship. 108m.,
a~esrudy.
0CALA(904)
House of Victory Church, PO Box 2841, 32678-2841. 368-£014. 3820
E.SilverSp<ings Blvd.
0Rl.AN00(407)
lnEgity, POlbx 530031, 32853-0031. 332·2743.
Joy MCC, PO Box 3004, 32802·3004. 894-1081. 2351 S. Ferooeek.
PENSACOLA (904)
Holy Cross MCC, 415 N. Alcaniz Sl, 32501. 433-8528. Sunday.
11 a.m., Wed., 7p.m.
SAINT PETERSBURG (813)
Di(Jlity, PO Box 1337, Pinelas Park, 34664-1337. 238-2868.
King o1 Peace MCC, 3150 5th Ave. N, 33713. 323-5857. Sunday,
10a.m., 7~.m . Rev. Dr. Fred C. Wimams, SJ., pastor.
SARA9'.lTA(813)
Church of ttle Trinity MCC, 7225 N. Lockwood Ridge Rd., 34243-
4526. 355-0847. S.mday, 10un.
lntegity, c/o St. Boniface Church, 5615 Mi!il ight Pass Rd., 342◄2·
1n1.349-5816.
TAMPA(813)
MCC, 2904 COocada Ave., 33629. 839-5939.
Sl John The Ewmge!isl Ecumenical Catholic Church, PO Box
280350, 33682. 979-4940. Fr. Daniel Wiliams.
WEST PALM BEACH !•07)
Oigity, PO Box 3014, T~esta , 33469. 744-1591.641·9944.
lntegi1y, PO Box 14583, No. l'8lm Beach, 33408. 627·1400.
MCC ol the Palm Beaches, 3500 45th St, #2A, 33409. 687·3943.
Sunday, 9:15, 11a.m. Services also in Ft Pierce, 687·3943 and Pt
St.L.ucie,341>-0421.
Georgia
ATLANTA(•o•)
o;g;~, PO Box 14342, 30324. 409-0203.
First MCC, PO Box 8356, 30306-~56. 872•2246. 800 N. Highland
Ave. NE.
rnegity, PO Box 13603, 30324-0003. 642-3183.
lullera,sConCEJned, PO Box 13673, 3032◄. 636•7109.
All Saints MCC, PO Box 13968, 30324. 622·1154.
PLGC, PO Box 8362, 30306. 373-5830.
Souttlern Voice, PO Box 18215, 30316. 876·1819.
UULGC, 1911 Oiff Valley .Way, 30329. 634·5134.
DECATIJR(,OC)
Olrist Covenant MCC, 109HiberniaAve.,30030. 297-0350.
MARETTA(77tl)
ML Calvary Liitilhoose, 546 U11e St, Ajll 8, 30060-2653. 421·9606.
&o. P. Jotnson, pastor.
SAVANNAH (912)
Disciples of the Trinity MCC, P.O. Box 14624, 31 ◄16. 231-1065.
Meets at 321 York St in the Historic Ois~cl Mel Bailey, pastor.
Hawaii
MAUl(808)
New Llberaton MCC, PO eox 347, Puunene. 96784. 879-6193.
0AHU(908)
Affirmation (Mormons), PO Box 75131, Honolulu, 96836-0131. 239-
4995.
Dig1ity, PO Box 3956, Honciulu, 96812-3956. 536-5536.
Ke Ariuenue O Ke .AJoha MCC, .PO Box 12260, Honolulu, 96828·
1260. 942·1027. Sunday, 11a.m., Dole Cannery Sq., 7p.m., 1212 lk1i·
versityAve. •
Rel!g'ous Science, 520Makapuu Ave., Honokllu, 96816. 942-0SOO.
UULGC, 2500 Pai Hwy., Hooolutu,96817. 623-◄726.
Idaho
BOISE(20~
MCC, PO Box 1959, 83702. 342-676-4.
Illinois
ALTON
Christ the Victor Church, 2613 Maxey Sl , AJ!oo, IL 62002·4779.
CHICAG0(312)
Chicago Interfaith Con!Jess, PO Box 60039, 60660. 784·2635.
ChicagoClutines, 3059 N. SoulhJX)rt, 60057. 871·7610.
Christ lhe Redeemer MCC, PO Box 6146, Evans1on, 60204·6146.
(708)262-0099. 933 Olicago Ave.
Church of the Resurrection MCC, 5540 S. Woodawn, 60637. 288·
1 ?35. Worsh~ savice 10:30am. Sun.
Digiily, 909 W. Bel merit Ave., #205. 60057·4408. 296-0780.
Emergence, PO Box 2547, 60690.
Good Shephe<d Parish MCC. 615 W. Weltingloo Ave., 60657·5305.
427•8708. Sonday, 7pm.
Grace Baptist Church, 1307 West Granville Ave., 60660. 262-8700.
Kelly Sprinkle, pastor. A Welcoming and Affirming American Baptist
cc:ogregaion.
Holy Covenanl MCC, 17 W. Mai;Ae. Hinsdale, 60521·3495. (708)325·
· 8488. SUnday, 6p.m.
Jnteg-ity, PO Be»< 2516, 60690. 349-6362.
LutierEns ConcB"ned, PO Box 10197,60610. 342·1647.
PLGC, c/o Lincoln Park Presbyterian Church, 600 W. Fullertoo
Pkwy.,60614-2600. 784•2635.
Shammah Christian Felowship, PO Box 5427, Evanston, 60204.
561-5524.
PAGE 12 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
13. k : , ,; _ th
UULGC, c/o Second Un~arian Church, 656 W. Barry Ave., 60657.
549-0260.
UCCl.,llC, 6171 N. Sheridan Rd, 12701, 60660-2858-338-0452.
EVANSTON (708) .
lake Sb'eet Church, 607 Lake SI., 60201. 864·2181. RobertThompsoo,
pastor. A Welcoming and Affirming American Baptist COO!Jega•
tion.
QUINCY(217)
MCC llliamo, P.O. Box 421, 62306-0421. 224-2800.
ROCK ISLAND (309)
lullerens Coocemed, P.O. Box 3891, 61204·3891.
MCC Quad Cities, 100118fl Ave.,61204-:6132. 786-5655.
SPRINGAUD (217) .
Fai~ Eternal MCC, 304 W. Allen SL, 62704. 525-9597. Sun., 10a.m.
1:'~6rrwcHAMPAKlN (217)
lntegify, 1011 S. Wrii,itSt , Champagn, 61820. 3'4-1924.
PLGC, 809 S. 5th St, Champaig1, 61820.
WAUKBlAN (847)
Frrst Congega!ional lklited Olurch of Chris~ 315 N. Utica SI., 60085.
336-5368. Rev. Ei'adS. Luiz, mirister.AA Open andAffirmingConge- t~j Ufe MCC, 511 S. Lewis Ave., 60085-6105. {708)578·5022.
2031 l>Jgdoa Rd
Indiana
BLOOMINGTON (812) t~~:'?~:~r ,7402-3232 =<l426 .
New World Cllurch, PO Ba< 11553, 4685e. ◄ 56<;570. 222 E. Leith St.
Open Doa Chapel, ~26 Ei'oad#ay, 46607. 7◄4-1199.
Task Force, First Presbyterian Church, 300 W. Wayne St., 46802.
426-7421.
INDIANAPOI..IS (317)
Allimaia, (Metoo<lsls), 33°E 32nd St, 46205. 925-0043.
llignly, PO Ba< 431, 46206. 251-0680.
Jesus MCC, PO Box 441551, 462◄4·1551 . 357-9687.
Iowa
CEDAR RAPIDS (319)
All Faidls MCC, PO Box ◄ 12, 52◄06. 396•9207.
CORALVILLE (319)
lnlegrify, PO Ba< 5225, 522◄1. 35H!263.
DAVENPORT (319)
GLAD Alliance, 2628 Western Ave., 52803·1473. 324-6231.
DES MOINES (515)
Church of the H~ Spirit MCC, P.O. Box 8426, 50301. 284-7940.
Office and worship space localed al 1548 8th St Sun .. 6p.m. Rev.
Paul Whiting, pastor. · .
Word of God Ministries, P.O. Box ◄396, 50333. 270-2709. Meets at
St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 3120 E. 24th SI., Des Moines.
IOWA crrv (319) .
Failtl United aiu rch of Christ. 1609 OeForesl St., 52240. 338-5238.
~~POan~~~.gs~f.egaton.
NASHUA(515)
UCCUGC, c/o CarmEn·Linda Conldin. RR2, 50658. ◄35·5068.
SIOUX crrv 11121
MCC, PO Box381,51102-0361. 25,-8005,
URBANDALE(51~
Urbandale United Church ol Chrisl 7002 Oliver Smith Or., 50322.
276-0625. An Opeo and Affirming Congegstion.
WATERLOO (319)
Church of New Hope MCC, PO Box 34, 50704. 23!4·1981. Meets at
3912 Cedar Hts., Cedar F~ls.
Kansas
iOPEKA (913)
MCC, PO Box ◄776, 66604-()776. 232-6196. SE !nciana Ave al 25111
WICHrrA (3161
First MCC, 156 S. Kansas Ave., 67211. 267-1852.
Wichita Praise andW«shipCenter, PO Box 113◄ 7, 67202. 651-0603.
Kentucky
LEXINGTON (606)
lntEJWeave, 3564 aays MU Ad., 40503. 223·1«8
LOUISVILLE (502)
Aflrmafon (Mettodsts), PO Box 7692, 40257-o692. 635--1402.
Allego, PO Box 403-4, ◄020,(, 581-1829.
Cent:al Presbyterian, 318 W. Kentucky Ave., ◄0203. 58Hi935. Sun·
day, 11a.m.
ChristOlurch Calhe<tal, ◄21 S. 2nd SL,40202. 587•1354.
Conlefence for Cslholic Lesbiails, PO Box ◄778, ◄0204-0778. 895-
0930.
llignil/, PO Box ms, 40204. 58H841.
lnlegity, Clo SL George's Episcopal Church, 1202 S. 26th SL, 40202.
584o658.
Lutherans Concerned, PO Box 7692, 40257-0692 897·5719.
MCC, PO Ehx 32474, ◄0232. 775-6636. 4222 Ban< st.
Phoenix Pising, PO Box 19897, 40259-0897. 966-8357.
PLGC, PO Box 7692, 40257-0692. 897·5719.
Third Lutheran Church, 1864 Frankfort Ave., 40206. 896·6383. Sun·
day, 11a.m. llCX2@ecun-etorg
Trinity Lutheran Church, 1 ◄32 Higlland Ave., 40204. 587-8395. Sun•
day, 9:30a.m., W00.;6:30p.m. PHILGARBER®ecunetorg.
PADUCAH (502)
MCC, PO Box 176, West Pall.Jcah, 42086. 441·2307.
Lnuisiana
BATON ROUGE(504)
?le~~~J~~~:!1643:~~. 383-0450.
SOiidarity House/Batoo Rouge Catholic Worker, 1275 ~urel ~-,
70802. 389-9572, 383-6010. Gay-lriemly Catholic Worker commumty
of hospila!ity~odging lor spousal abuse victims.
PLGC, 2'285 Cedardale, 70808.
COVINGTON (504)
Abundant Grace Ctvistian Felowship, 832 E. Boston St., #3, 70433.
871·9527. Pas!cts Lee Thc,mPf,00 MdYdanci! Yaeger.
UULGC, c/o Unitarian Church, 8470 Goodwood Blvd., 70806. 926·
2291.
LAFAYETTE (318)
MCC, PO Box 92682, 70500. 232-()546. 211 Garfield.
LAKE CHARLES (318)
MCC, PO Box 384, 70602. 439-9869. 510 S.-oadSt
NEW ORLEANS (SO,)
Firsl Jesus Name Church, P.O. Box 58362, 70158·8362. AA Acts
2:38 congegaton.
Grace Felowsh~, PO Box 70555, 70172. 944·9836.
Relationship Therapy Center, 620 N. Carrollton Ave., 70119. 488·
9924. Counseling and support seNices, gay and lesbian.
UCCLA1C, 944 Joyce St., Mtnero, 70072-2306. 341 · 4608.
Vieux Carre MCC; 1128 St Roch.Ave., 70117•7716. 945·5390. Sun·
day, 109=.m. -
~!,S: G~?!n~~owth 'Mission, P.O. Box 2631, 71294. Sr. R. Boyd,
pasb'.
Maine
8ANGOR(207)
Dignify, PO Box 103, Norll SUiiivan, 04684-0103.
PORTLAND (207)
~r~=:~~,04104
lntegify, PO Box 25. 04572
Maryland
ADELPHI (301)
lnterlaith Coalition for Free Slate Justice c/o Paint Elfanch UU
Cha ch, 3215 Powder MiH Rd., 20783. n6-6891.
BALTMORE('10)
The Allemative, PO Box 2351, 21203.(301)235-3'01.
Archdocesan Gay/lesbian OJtreach, 2034 Park Ave., 21217. 728·
2638.
Oig1ily, PO Box 1243, 21203·1243. 325-1519.
First New Covenant Fellowship Church, 5 W. Fort Ave., 21230-1407.
523•n89. Sunday, 2:15p.m. at Dor~th UMC, 527 Scon St.
lntegity, ckJ Emmanuel Church, 811 Cathe<i'at St., 21201. 732-0718.
Lutherans !Ancemed, Bat: 23271,21203-5271. 225-0563.
MCC, 3'01 llkl Yock Rd., 21218. 889-6363.
BETHESDA (3011
0peo Door MCC, PO Box 127, Boyds, 20641-0127. 601·9112. Sun·
day, 10:30a.m., 7p.m. at 15817 Barnesvile Rd.
Massachusetts
BOSTON (617)
□;g,fy, 95 Berk~"! St., #616, 02116. 423·9558.
Support G1oup, ChlJch of the Covenant, 67 Newbury St , 02116. 266-
7480.
lntegity, c/o Christ Church, 12 Quincy Ave., Quincy, 02169. 773·
0310.
MCC, PO Box 15590, Kenmore SO,., 02215. 288·8029.Sunday, 7pm.
at 131 Cambridge SL, Beacon Hill.
CAMBRIOGE(617)
Friends fOf lesbian/Gay Concerns (Quakers), 5 LoogleUow Park.
02138.876-6883.
~~ -~~~~i~ 09ea~:~;~~hPa~\~. ~a~~~:~~ a~~e~~~g
Amefica, Baptisl congegation.
HDLDEN(508)
UCCI..KiC, PO Box 403, 01520. 856·9316.
OSTERVILLE (508)
Healthsigns Counseling Center, 100 Acorn Dr., 02655. -420-0258.
Ameler.vd,ci"ector.
SPRINGFIELD ('13) ~W.1¾lrlttfn 5051, 01101•5051. 737-4788.
Lutherans Concerned, c/o Randall Rice, 108112 Chestnut St. 02154·
0406. 893-2783.
WORCESTER (508)
First Baptist Church, 111 Park Ave., 01609. 755-6143. Barbara Sin·
cl air, associate pastor. A Welcoming and Affirming American Bap~st
ccrigegafon.
Morning Star MCC, 231 Main St., Chllfry Valley, 01611. 892-4320.
Pub: Morning Star Wtb'less .
Unitarian Universatists !or eiiiGay/Lesbian Concerns, PO Box 592.
Wes'rside Stn., 01602. 755-0005.
Michigan
ANN ARBOR (313)
C!r'l!Erbory House, 721 E. Huroo st. #2R, 48104·1526.
Huror1ValleyCommunityChurch, 1001 Gr~ Rd., ◄8105-2896.741·
+~::o~:Jc!·~at~~:,i;{~~a~ts at First Coogegational
Church, 218 N. Adams, Ypsilanti, Ml ◄8197·2507. Sunday, ~.m.
DETROrr(313)
gru~.M~:~eJ:~r◄~~~~200. 369-1901 .
lntegity. c/o Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 18320John R Sl, 48203.
459-7319. =~~a:!:=i~~d:::r~r~~ew~New Generation Youdl Group, PO Box 11499, ◄8211, meets Wed.,
5p.m. at 3CX28 East Grand ftvd., 872•2424.
FUNT 1313)
Oigni~, PO Box 585, 48501.
Redeemer MCC, 1665 N. Chevrolet Ave., ◄8504-3164. 238-6700.
Sunday, 6p.m. Rev. Ulda J. Stooer, pastor. Pub: Sounds ol Aed'aem-
"· FT. GRATIOT (810)
AH Souls' Apostolic Catholic Church, 4653 Desmond Beach, 48059.
385-922◄. Holy Eucharist Sun. 1 ta .m.
GRANORAPIOS(616)
Bethel Christian Assembly, PO Box 6935, 49516. ◄59 ·8262. Rev.
~uce Aoller-P1etcher, pask>I'. Pub: Bethel Beacon.
Oigiity, PO .Box 1373, 49501. 454•9n9 .
Reconciliation MCC, PO Box 1259, 49501. 364·7633.
KALAMA2D0(616)
Phoenix Community Church, PO Box 2222, 49003·2222. 381·3222,
Sunday, Sp.m. at Un~ed Church ol Christ.
LANSING (517)
Oigiity, PO Box 1265, East Lansing, 48826.
Ecclesia. meets al People's Church, 200 W. Grand River. Sunday,
7~ .m.
lntegity, c/o All Saints Church, 800 Abbott Rd., East Lansing, 48823
:!f!i~e o~~~~ c Oiurch, 2800 10th St, 48192·4994. 281-3002.
Minnesota
MARSHALL (507)
lulherans Concernedfnte!Jify, PO Box 3013, 56258. (800)235-3708.
MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL (612) .
Atfrmaticri (Moonons), PO Box 3878, Minneapolis, 55403. 753•3345.
Affirmation (United Methocists). 101 E. Grant St, Minneapolis, 55◄03 .
874-6613,871-3585.
All God's Children MCC, 3100 Park Ave. S., Minneapolis, 55407.
824·2673. Window of Wellness Cixmseling Center offefs posllive
affirming Christian counseling !or homosexuals.
Catholic Pastoral Comminee, 1118 Farrington St., St. Paul, 55117,
4802. 340-0618.
Digiity,PO Box 3565, Mimeapolis, 55403. 827·3103.
lnt~ity, c/o University Episcopal Center, 317 171h Ave SE, Minnea·
pois, 55414. 825·2301.
Judson Memorial Baptist 4101 Harriet Ave. So., Minn., 55409. 822·
0649. D~le K. EOOlondson, pastor. A Welcoming and Affirming Ameri•
can Baplst coogegaticri.
Spirit ol the la kes Community Church, (UCC), 2930 13th Ave. S.,
Minneapolis, 55407. 724·2313. Sunday, 10am., Wed, 7p.m.
Lutherans Concerned, 100 N. Oxford SI., st. Paul, 55104-6540. 866·
8941.
Temple Baptist Church, 3100 Columbus Ave., S, 55407. 823·6268. ¥~:it ~~~C~u~~~J~8.a:x":: ~~~i~i! .~ 1~:~ . Serv·
ices held at 1819 Nicollet Ave. S.
UCCL/GC, 134 W. 43rd St., Minneapolis, 55409.
~;~9si!d~:~c:~~~~~iv$rsity Ave., SE, 55414. A WfJWrigspan
M1msty, 100 N. Oxlord, SL Paul, 55104. 224-3371.
Mississippi
JACKSON (601)
Gay and Les!ian T,0< FO!ce, PO Box 7737, 39284·7737. 37~8610.
Plloen~ CO,lijon, Inc., PO Box 7737, 39284·7737. 373·8610,939-
7181. counseling services. ·
St Stephen's United Community Church, PO Box 76S4i 39284-765-4.
939-7181, 373•8610. Sunday, Sp.m. al Unitarian Church, 4872 N.
Slate St.
Missouri
COLUMBIA (314)
Ch~is1 Ile Kmg Agape Church, 515 Hickman Ave., 65201. 443·5316.
United Covenant Mission Church, PO Box 7152, 65205. 449-719-4.
KANSAS CITY AREA (816)
Abiding Peace Luthe:ran Church, 5090 NE Chouteau Trafficway,
64119. 452·1222. Can,ng for peop!e and Cfeation. Mary Gerken, coo·
tac! per~on. A ~econciled in Christ congegatioo. •
=-~abon (United Methodsts), 5709 Virfjnia Ave., 64110-2855. 363-
GLAO Oisciplesol Chrisl, PO Box 414711, 64141. 432-6139.
kll,gity, PO Box 414164, 64141-4164. 281-0699.
LutleransConcerned, PO Box 413702. 64141
MCC, PO Box 10087, 64111-0087. 931-0750. 3801 Wyandotte.
MCC Johnson County. 12510 W. 62nd Terr., #106, Shawnee Mis·
sion, 66216. (913)631-118".
~f:i.Jerusalem Fellowship Ministries, PO Box 10496, 64111. 763•
ST. LOUIS AREA (314)
AIJ'I"' ChJrch, 2026 Lalayette Ave., 63104. 664·3588.
~rc~P()ro:,,;~f:i-~226863
~00 1120 Dolman St.
Montana
BILLINGS (4°")
Family of God MCC, 645 Howmd, 59101. 245-7066. Sunday, 11a.m.,
Wed.,7p.m.
BOZEMAN(406)
=ation (United Melhodsts), 1000 N. 17!1 Ave., 129, 59715. 586-
GREATFALLS(4°")
Shepherd of the Plains MCC, PO Box 2162, 59403. n 1-1010. 1505
171h Ave., &N, 59404.
Nebraska
OMAHA (402)
MCC, PO Box 3173, 68103. 345-2563. 819 S. 22nd St
PLGC, c/o Evans, 3810 13t'I Sl, #'22, 68107. 733-1360.
Nevada
LAS VEGAS (702)
MCC, 1119 S. Main St., 89104-1026. 38"-2325.
Mustard Seed Minislries, P.O. Box 70053, 89170. Sr. W. Abney, pas•
"'· REl/0(702)
MCCof lhe Sierra, PO Box 21192, 89515-1192. 829-8602.
New Hampshire
New Jersey
ASBURYPAR\(908)
gr~oo~(~\;°7712 m-4031.
~~1~ 8~ge~ Cht1ch, 550 Ridgewood Ad, 07040. 761 ·7321.
TheOasis,Catlectal House, 24 Rec!OI' St, 07102. 621-8151.
NEW BRUNSWICK (908)
~~'&~,'::; ~~i:.~::~~~~. 846-8227.
~~
2
:; 38, 08903-0038. Plb: More Lig,1 Upda1e.
The ~ovng Brott'lerhood, PO Box 556, 07461. 875-4710.
New Mexico
ALBUQUERQUE (505)
Dig'ity, PO Box 27294, 87125. 898-3343.
Kinship, Seventh Day Adventists, PO Box 26012, 87125.
MCC,·2404 San Mateo Pl., NE, 87110. 881-9088. Rev. Dr. Fred C.
~fiams, P.-9Stor. Sun., 10a.m. ~; ;~~~E~~r:s1 Minislries, 134 Quincy, NE, 87108.
~~ ~~:i1i~~~~~~. ~r~~t~1~f~:.nti~~u~~~~:j~ ~C:o
all.
~l~~!t62 DoraOO Dr., 88011. 52H 490. Gey and lesbian spiritu·
SANT A Ft (505)
The Ca\SD{ Connec~on. 551 W. Cordova, S1e. DIE, 875011986-1794.
New York
ALBANY/CAPITAL AREA (518j
Commuoity of St. John Christian Orthodox Church, PO Box 9073,
12209. 346-0207, Fr. Hennc11. F\Jt>: Metancia
Dignity, PO Box 11204, Loudonville, 12211-0204. 436·8546.
Emmanuel B:3ptist Church, 275 $!ate St., Albany, 12210. 465·5161.
Roy A. Donkrn. pastOI'. A Welcomrng and Affirming .American Baptist
Corgega,on.
~n
1
t~ity, c/o Grace & Holy Innocents, 498 ainton Ave., 12206. 465·
Lighthouse Apostolic Church, PO Box 1391, Schenectady, 12301·
1391.372-6001. &o. W. H. Carey,paslor.
MCC, 275Sta!e St., 12210. 785-7941.
BUFFALO (716)
Digiity, PO Box 75 81icott Sin., 14205. 833-8995.
t:tty , c/o Church of tie Ascension, 16 Linwood Ave., 14209. 884-
Pink Triangle Christian Felowship, PO Box 722 Ellicott Stn., 14205·
0722. 845-6971. Pub: Spritwcxks
GENEVA (315)
PLOC, PO Box 278, Dresden, 14441-0278. 536-n 53.
UCCL/GC,333Argmne Dr., 14217·2417. 877-0459.
HAMPTON BA VS (516)
Good Shepherd American C!ilholic Church, P.O. Box 725, #10 Failh
Or., 11946. 723·2012.
NEW YORK CITY AREA
8<0!11(718)
St. Mn's Church, 295 st Ann's Ave., 10454. 585-6325.
Brooldyn(718)
Digmy, PO Box 021313, 11202·1313. 769<l<l47.
First Unitarian Church, Lesbian, Gay, asexual Concerns Committee,
50 Morroe Pl., 11201. fl24-5466.
Long bland (516)
~~- 10! AIDS Care, Inc., PO Box 2859. Huntinglon ~-. 11746. 385-
C!rcti cl More l..iglt E3oK203, B"ookhaven, 11719-@'l3. 286-0542.
~rvt•~l:M~ ti~:~~ Mu~:'s'.a11~ftJBJj~·Sl.ony &o~ , PO
Box 602, S1ony li'ook, 11790. 399-◄967.
International F~ee Catholic ChurcM3ood Shepherd Church PO Box
438, Centro 10,p, 11122. 723-0348. Rev. Msg. RobertJ. Alhl..,, pas-
"'· M,_nhettor>'New York City,,... (212)
Axtos: Eastern & OrtlOOOx Christians, PO Box 756, Village Sin.,
~~~ 989-6211. Second Friday, Sp.Jn., Community Cenler, 208 W.
Christian Science Group, c/o 444 3rd Ave., #4, 10016. 532·8379.
Di!l'lify, PO Box 1028 Old Chelsea~ .. 10011. 818·1309. P\Jb:OJt•
lo~ .
Di!l'lity, PO Box155HDR~ .. 10150. 866•8047.
Evangelicals Concerned, 311 E. 72nd st . #1G clo Or. Ralph Blair
10021.517"3171.N>:Aerord,Review '
~
7
a~~
7
L:l:Man OUalrers, 15 AutlerfOl'd Pl .. 10003-3971. 475-0195.
Gar, Lesbian & Affirming Disciples Alliance, clo AJ!en Harris, 1453A
Lexm~on Ave., 10128·2506. 289-3019.
lnle!J,ity, PO Box 5202, 10185-0043. (718)720-3054 Pub:Oufook
Judson Memcria1 Church, 55 Washington Sep.Jere So., 10012. ◄n-
0351. Peter Laarmon, pastor. A Welcoming and Affinning American
Baptist cong-egation.
Lesbian and Gay communit)' 5ervices center, Inc., 208 W. 13th St,
10011. 620-7310. Pub: Center Stage, COOier Voice.
M~dson Avenue Baptist Olurch, 30 East 31st St, 10016. 685-13n.
M1ch.ael B. East~lng, pastOI'. A Welcoming and Alfinning American
Bap1isl congega1ion.
Maranalha: R!ver~dets fOI' lesbianJGay Concerns, c/o Riverside
Ch.Jrch, 490 fiverside {)'., 10027.222-5900.
MCC, 208 W. 131h St., 10011. 242·1212. Sunday, 10a.m. af 208 w.
131h st , 7p.m. at 135 W. 4ttl st
PLGC, 740 Wes1 End Ave., 10025. 866-3580.
Park Avenue Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), 1010 Park Ave.
at ~5ttl St., 1'?')28. 288-3246. A vibrant Cfeative, anddverse coogero~~
ck~~:Z1~ ~ .e:::n1
9o~i ~O:J ~~<;4s~:~:88 -324s.
Fourth Friday, 7p.m.
Riverside Cturch, 49J Riverside C:X ., 10027. 222·5900. Brenda Stiers.
~=~ ~'!"~~~ Churdl, 236 W. 73rd St, 10023. an-a221. Sunday,
11a.m.MaeT9'1tchurch.
~~~~~~dventist Kinship International, PO Box 20595, 10025.
Temple of Miraculous Pefqeptioo, 237 W. 100 St, 10025.222·2874.
~~-l.K3C, clo Craig Hoffman, 1453A Lexington Ave., 10128. 289-
Unity Fel .. ship Ct<Jrch, PO Box 2708, 10008·2708. (718)636-5646.
Wa!tungtQ"I Sq.we UMC, 13.5 W. •lh St, 10012. m-2528.
~=r~~~er itr1Church, 165W. 861hSt., 10024.362·48.90.
~~e~~r~at~;~~~g,~~lox 4154, College PCMnt,
Unitan~ Umversahst Church, L~an. Bisexual & Gay Concerns
~=~~i1r,AS1Ave ., Flushing, 11355.353-3900.
lntegity, PO Box 2038, White Plains, 10602-2038. 949-4367. Pub:
The Grapevile.
NIAGARA FALLS(716)
Rainbow Community Apostolic Fellowship, c/o Roberts, 456 4ttl st,
Apt 6, 14301. 284-7044. B'o. C. Rtt>em, pas\01'.
Pl.A TTSBURGH (518)
St. Mary's E~meoical Calholic Church, PO Box 159, Chazy, 12921.
493·3272 (vocce and FAX), Rev. Fr. Micha a' R. Frost
POUGHKEEPSIE(914)
~~~1\fy&\'2 Box 356. la!J'enge,ille. 125'M356. 72◄-3209.
Community Christian Fellowship, PO Box 68005, 14618. 234·9776. A
place o( P!'ayer, praise and Bible sllct/ IOI' gay and lesbian Evangelical
Chns1ians.
~~~:,~i~;~fJ:~ch .~7~~~ ·:.~-~-458-5765. Pela-
Ca~man, pastor, A Welcoming md Affirming American &ptist conge-
~!~~pty Closet, 179 A'dantic Ave., 14607-1255. New York State's
~t~~J~:'r.J:'~SL. 14605. 271-8478.
PLGC, c/oCarta-, 111 Milbun St, 14007-2918. 271•7649.
SYRACUSE(315)
May MemOl'ial Unitarian Universalists for Lesbian & Gay Concerns
3800 E. Genessee St., 13214. 424-7628. '
Ray ol Hope MCC, PO Box 6955, 13217. 471-6618. Sunday, 6p.m. al
819 Madison st
UTICA(315).
Oigiity, PO Box 352. 13503. 738-0599.
WANTAGH (516) ~t~R~o5(~f r· 11193. 1a1-5942.
St. Anthony of PaOOa Ecumenical Catholic Church, 539-4323. Fr.
Tom Sterner.
North Carolina
ASHEVILLE (704)
·community Connections, PO Box 18088, 28814. 258·3260. Newspa•
per~ !he Southern Appalachian gayAesbic11 community.
MCC. PO Box 2359. 28802·2359. 259·3055.
CHARLOTTE (704)
Charlotte lnterfaittl Network for Gayh.esbian Equality, 7209 E. Harris
8,lvd., #169, 28227. 536·9348. Garnett E. Phibbs, contact per so,.
Lutherans Concerned, PO Box 9562, 28299. 334·2367. Pub: The
Clarion
MCC, 4037 E. Independence Bvd., #726, 28205·7375. 563-5810
Metolina Swithboa-d, PO Box 11144, 28220. 535-6277.
New Life MCC, PO Box 221404, 28222. 343-9070.
GREENSBORO (910)
Lutheran Church ol lhe Resurrection, 6720W. Fnendy Ave., 27410.
292-4984. Rev. Mark Johnson, paslOI'. Sun .. 10a.m.; Fri .• 7p.m. Holy
Communion 5efVed at all services. ELGA.
f:;i~:!~u~c~~~1~~~~· ~-;~~O:p.~.~;:.·. ie: ~ ~~~ i.; ~tKd~ro~tev. Christine Oscar, pastor.
MGp, c/o Unitarian Chtrdl, 109111h Ave., NW, 28601. 324-1960.
TRIANGLE AREA (919)
Affirmabon {United Methodists), PO Box 5961, Aaleig1, 27650. 850·
9380.
Digni~. PO Box 51129, Dumam, 2m 7·1129. 493-8269.
lntegnty. c/o, Church of the Good Shepherd, PO Box 28024, Aaleigl,
27611.571-1792.
~ar:t~sCOn cemed, PO Box 665, Apex, 27502. 387-0824. Meets in ·
Pullen Memorial Baptist Church, 1801 Hillsborough St, Raleigh,
27&l:5. 828-oo97. M. M.ahanSiler,Jr.,pastcr.
~f ,g
2\~~i:~ ;~~~ -IOI' Gay and lesbian Eq.iality, PO Box
St Jchn~ MCC, PO Box 5626, Rofeig,, 27650. 834-2611. Sunrt,y,
11a.m .• 7:1 Sp.m., 805 Glenwood Ave.
~~a:~v; .~::;, ~ik?.>~~2
~/o Unitarian Fellowship, 3313
WILMINGTON (910)
GROW Community Sefvice Corp., PO BoK 4535, 28"06. 675-9222.
Yooll ~each : ALNE 10! gay, lesbian, ~sexual youlh. ~;ti~i• 7
~~-~-26 Markel St., S1e. 170, 28◄03. Sancbla,y: 507
WINSTON-SALEM (910)
Lesbian & Gay Concerns Task FOl'ce, Unitarian Universalist F~lowshp,
2873 Robirllood Rd, 271 .. . 723-7633.
~~~.~j1~~~~(~f:7~~~ay and Lesbian Equality, PO Box
Ohio
AKRON(2l6) ·
MCC, 1215 KenmO!e Bvd, 44314. 745-5757. Pub: Beacon of Lig,l
Cascade Cornm1Y1ity Chll'ch, 1190/1196 nman St., 44306. n3-5298.
Sunday, 2p.m. Pub:Cascade Newsletter.
~~ans Concerned, PO Box 67114, Cuyahoga Falls, 44222. 928-
ATHENS(614)
UCCUGC, 18 N. College St, 45701. 593-7301.
CANTON (216)
~~ .anuel Fellowship Olurcn, PO Box 35604, 44735·5604. 376-
CINCINNATI (513)
Di!l'li~, PO Box 983, 45202. (006)561·9014.
~~t~~=~ ·•~~(~:f~•~i!~~2!~·TaflRd 45219
\ ~i-,5~~:.1-2664. Rev. Dr. Harold G. Porter, pastOl':•A More
~~~~gtfi~ E. Holister St, 45219. 241-8216. Pub: Visions.
AComnion Bond, PO Box 91853, 44101. Jehovah'sWiilesses
Church of the Redeemer United Mellocis~ 2420 So. Taylor Rd: ae - ;e1;.~.~•~~ !~:,~4~;-.'~1~~~ing Congegalon. '
Emmanuel MCC, 100l4 lctain Ave.,44111·5429.651-0129. Sunday
10:45a.m. Pti>: Good News '
PLGC, 841 Engewocd, 44121. 382-0507.
COLUMBUS(614)
Oirist.U~ted Evangelical Church, PO Box 141264, 43214. 297'6317.
Evangel)Cal.s Con~ed , PO Box 360491, 43236. 235-GAYS.
First Umtanan Urvversalis1 Church. 93 W. Weisheimer 43214 267•
4946. Sunday, 11a.m. • ·
Friends !or Lesbian & Gay Concerns (Quakers) 488-2096 ~:or:~.:,~ Group, c/o Newman een\er, 64 W .. Lane Ave.,
MCC, PO Box 10009, 43201-0509. 294-3026. 1253 N. Higi St. Sun•
day'.10:30a.m: Pub:lhe Beaca, News
~~-of lhe Rivers Community Church, PO Box 10333, 43201. ~86-
Sblewall Union Reports, !:bx 10814, 43201-7814.299-7764. u=c. 29,.9910, 488-2006.
0AYTON(513)
Commun(ty Gospel Church, PO Box 1634, 45401. 252·8855. Spirit
filled, Chnst centered. Meets Thl.ll's .• 5p.m., &.m. 10a.m. at 546 Xenia ~r·t.8fo00eo8:~.~~~2~~~C6.
MZc, PO Box 4021, 45401, 228·4031. 1630 E. 5th St sun.,
10:30a.m. .
GRANVILLE (614)
First Baptis.t Church, 115 W. Broa~ay , 43023·1179. 587-0336.
=~~ l=~ ·r., pastor. A Welcoming and Affirming.American
UMA(419)
~ost Holy Redeemef Ecumenical Catholic Church, 228-7344. Fr.
Jimmy Tabler. •
MANSFE.0(419)
Center br Pastoral Ca-e, 3180 Germc11 Chll'ch Act, 44904. 756-29n,
~4~:~ .AXn4-9805. 9.mdaylibJrgy, 10:15a.m.Past01'alcoon~
ol!ERUN (216)
1~ 1Uii\'.\'&i~~;i 44074-0387. 775-3341.
Comm~ity ~urch of Truth, PO Box 3005, 45501-3005. 325-7691. fi~~14~,"e metaphysics and practical Christianity.
Digiity, PO eox 1388, 43603. 242-9057.
~jgrity , c/o Sl. Mark's Church, 2272 Collingwood Blvd., 43620. 244·
·MCC, Good Samarilan Parish, 720 W. Delaware Ave -13620 244·
2124. Sunday, 11a.m. " ·
Oklahoma
OKLAHOMA CITY (405)
Church of Christ IOI' Gays, PO Box 75481, 73147. 528-8417.
DiJ11itynn1eg-ify, PO Box 25473, 73125. 755-9175.
:~1~.ds Meeting (Quakers), 312 SE 251h St., 73129. 632-7574, 631·
~ J~~~ .,r .~~T;! _Catholic Church, PO Box 25425, 73125.
TULSA(918)
Dig1ily.lnte11ity, PO Box 1271, 74101-1271. 298·4648.
MCC, PO Box 4187, 74159. 838·1715. 1623 N. Maplewoo:l.
St.Jer~e Ecu!f1enical Catholic Church, 742-7122. Fr. Rick Hollingswort,.
1ckraohn1a@aol.com, stariott@aol.com.
Oregon
EUGENE (503)
Oer!1,' & Laity Concerned. 458 Blair Bvd., 97402. 485-1755
~CC, 1414 Ki~caid St., 97401·3737. 345-5963. Sunday, 4p.m. at
First Congegitional Church, Condon Chapel, 23rd & Harris Sts. Pub:
Corrmon GrO!J'ld: Rev. Marg.iertte Saogg"e, pastor.
PORTLANO (503)
Affrmatioo (Unied Mellcxists), PO Box 12673. 97212. 234·8854.
.America~ Friends ~ce Committee, Gay & Lesbian Prog-am, 2249
E. Ellrnside, 97214. 230-9430. CcntactOan.
Di!l'lify, PO Box 6708, 97228-6708. 295-4868.
Evangelicals Concerned, PO Box 40741, 97240-0741. 232•7451.
lnlegity, cfo AFSC, 2249 E. Burnside, 97214. 774-1064. Put>: St.
Aetreds Messenger.
~~!~:; .Peace Community UMC, 2116 NE 18th Ave., 97212· 4609.
MCC, 1644 NE 24th, 97232. 281-8868.
Reach Out! (Former Jehovah's Wilnesses), PO Box 1173, Clecka·
mas, 97015.
SisterSprit, PO Box 9246 , 97207. 294-0645. Pub: Spiri\ed Women
Resource Guide
ROSEBURG(503)
MCC, P.O. Box ◄55, Dillard, OR 97432-0◄ 55.
SALEM(503)
Di!l'lity, PO Box 532, 97308. 363-0006.
~eel Spiri1 MCC, PO Box 13969, 97309, 363-6618. 1◄ 10 121h S1.,
Pennsylvania
ALTOOHA(814)
Gay, Lesbian & Bisexual Spmual Fellowship, 1805 8ttl Ave., 16602.
949-58.52. Pub: Pieconciliaton
aWYN(610) .
Pll!J'inl F~l .. slli~Church, P.O. 8oX4306, 19063. 237·1387. Mee~
~~ (~~;i•rfelp!l,a Airport Comfort Inn.
lnl,gity, PO Box 1782, 16507-0782. 774-0903.
GLEN ROCK (717) .~';;',~I~r,11
~tholic Owtch, ~7. Rick Nare, contact persoo.
Dig,ity, PO Box 379, 18"27. 829-1341.
HARRISBURG (717)
Di!l'lity, PO Box 297 Fedor~ Square 5'1., 17108.
MCC of the Spiri~ PO Box 11543, 17108. 231H367. Pub: Spirit
Wings
LEHIGH VALLEY (610)
Grace Covenant Fellowship, 247 N. 10th St, Allentown, 18102. 740-
0?~7. Sunde¥, 10:45a.m. &yon Rowe, pastor. Thom Riner, music
m1mster. Serving the Lehi~ Valley.
~~~· ~ :i; 8J~r:v~\~:;Jn~~~.8
11~~~~ ·8102. 439-
8755. Sullda.y, 7p.m. at Unitarian Coor ch, 701 lechllJWeki Ave. BeJh.
lehem. Pub: Valley Star. '
PHILAOB.PtilA (215)
Di!Ti~, PO Box 53348, 19105. 546-2003. Pub:The lndepemfeoce
ln1'9'1~, c/o Holy Trirify Church, 1904 Walnu1S1., 19103. 382-0794.
MCC, PO Box 8174, 19101-8174. 563-6601. Sunday, 7pm. at 2125
Chestnut St Pub: The Bell Ringel".
UCCL.,IJC, PO Box 6315, 19139. 72◄ ·1247. ~£i::~. Univorsalist Church, Stanton Ave. & Gorgas lrl., 19150.
PITMAN(717)
~~~~~ r.fit• AO 1, Box HG, 17~ . Gay harmonists.
A~r~ation(Untted Melhocists), Box 10104, 15232-0104. 683-5526.
Di!l'lily, PO Box 362, 15230. 362·4334.
In~ . PO Bax 5619, 15207-0619. 421..S747.
lulheransCoocemed, PO Box 81866, 15217-0866.521-7746. ,
MCC, 4836 Ellsworth Ave., 15213. 683-2994.
PLGC, PO Box 9022, 15224-0022.
WAYNE(610)
Central Baptist Church, P.O. Box 309, 19087. 688-0664. Marcia Bail·
ey,_co-pastor. A Welcoming and Affirming American Baptist Congega1ion.
Rhode lsland
PROVIOENCE (401)
Dgiity, PO Box 2231, Pawtucket, 02861. 727-2657.
St Petef's&St.Anti'ew'SEpiscopal Churdl, 25 PomonaAve.,'02909-
5255 .. 272•9649. Rev. Jan Nunley, rector and co-convenor of
lnteg1t)r/Rhode lsl~od. ~e are a -r~ coog'98tion• of Christians
from all. ~elks of life, will an active lntegity chapl!lf, healing and
AIDS ministry. Se habla Espanol.
~~~· 15 Oak Ave., Riverside Con~egational Church, 02915.
South Carolina ,
CHARLESTON (8"3)
MCC, 2010 Hawthome D., #10, 29-118. 747-6736. Mary M. Moore,
pasl'.Jr.
COLUMBIA(803)
Lullet:ansCQncemed, PO Box 8828, 29202•8828. 738-1899. Meets at
728 Ptdc:ens St. on USC campus.
MCCColumbia, P.O. Box 87,53, 29202. 256-2154. Meets al 1111 Bel·
leview St, #2.
GREENVILLE (8"3)
MCC, PO Box 6322, 29606-6322. 233-0919. Sun., 7p.m. at 37 E. Hill·
cresl Rev. Mick Hinson.pastor.
South Dakota
LAKE PRESTON (60S)
UCCUGC, RI. 1, Box 76, 57249. 847-4623.
SIOUX FALLS (605)
St Francis& SI. Clare MCC, PO Box 266, 57101-0266. 332~3966.
Tennessee
CHATTANOOGA (615)
lntegit)r, PO Box 4956, 37405. 756-6225
MCC, Po Box 80183, 37411. 892·2138 .. SUn., 7p.m. at3224 Navajo
JOHNSON CITY (615)
MCC ol lhe Tri Cities, PO Box 1612, 37605-1612. 926·4393.
KNOXVILLE (615)
MCC, PO Box 2343, 37901-2343. 521 ·6546.
MEMPHIS (901)
660
1ntegrity c1o Calvary Episcopal Church, 102 N. 2nd St., 38103. 525-
2.
NASHVILLE (615) •
Oayspring Fellowship, 120-B S. 11th SL. Box 68073. 37206. 227•.
1448.
lnteg~· PO Box 121172, 37212-1172. 383·6608.
~~l ,Au~:i~~0406, 37206·0406. 262-0922. &rn., 1 ta.m., 7p.m .•
Texas
~~v";~~~/~ope Community Church, 1342 No. 41h SL. P.O. Box.
2961,79604. 677-7955. Sm., 11,.m.
Crisis Counseling and Resoorce Center for Sexual Min0<ities, 1902
~~s~~~~ SI., 79602. 676-0613. Crisis phone line and counseling
Exodus MCC, PO Box 2473, 79604. 672•7922. 904 Walnut St
AMARILLO (806)
MCC, PO Box 1276, 79105. 372-4557. 2123 S. Polk St
ARLINGTON (817)
Xtn~,~~2r Truman·&., 76011. 265·~454. Sun., 10:45a.m.
:;ation (United Methodists), 7403 Shoal Creek Blvd., 78757. 451-
AU 5a1nts Ecumenical Catholic Church, P.O. Box 91597, 78709-
1597. 280-9151. The Rev. Robert 0. Hall, frrobert@aol.com,
cio~elt>a@aol.com.
Di!l'lily, PO Box 2866, 78768. 467·7908.
lnlegity, PO Box 4327, 78765-4327. 462•0977.
Joan Wakeford Ministries, Inc., 9401 Grouse Meadow Ln., 78758·
6348. 835-7354.
PAGE 13 SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Resource Guide
CORPUSCHRISTl(512)
MCC1, 315 GraigS t, 711404·33380B. 2·8225s. un., 10,.m., Wed,.
i~S'FORT WORTHA REA( 214)
Affirmatio(Un nitedM elhodsts)B, ox4 83B2, Watauga,7 6148·0382.
~~=~nited Melhodst)s, PO Box1 91021, Dallas7, 5219. 528·
4913.
AgapeM CC, POB ox1 5247, FortW orth7, 6119·024.7 (817)535-5002.
6~~!7Joa~~~~ · c:1~6~~1:~0;e~D~all-as,, 75235.
351-1901.
sun.,9a.m, .11a.m.
Digity, PO Box1 90133, Dalas, 75219-01332. 26-4101.
~i¥r1~:~·61hu'~:~f6y~~~~~:~1:~:ias, 75204.
827-508.8 •A homef or everyh eart"s ervingI ha Dallasl esbiana nd
fiJi~°';~~,:r~f90~86i9.', ~Da6llas~,7 5 219.5 21-5342, ext 233.
Gaya ndl esbianB aptist.s
lni:!gilyP, OB ox1 90351D, allas7, 5219-03515.2 0-0912.
SillJllH SIVesMt inistriesP,O B ox1 9051f, ~5219-051._51 2().6655.
WhiteR ockc ommunitCy hurch7,' l2 TenrnsoMo emoriaAld .,7 522.3
285-28313. 20-0J43su. n. . 900am. . 11a .m.J .-ryC ool, <pas1or.
DENTON(817)
HarvesMt CC5, 900S .S temmon7s6, 2054. 97·4020S.u n,. 10:30a.m.,
6pm.
~g~:~1 ;~%
;~,; Church, 501 E. 18lh al Cdumbia. 8'80·9235.
~~n ~~}~~ ~~~s~crk CK..n oag.2011. 991-6766.
Di!llilyP, O Box6 6821m, ~1. 880-2872S. al, 7:JOpma. t 1307
};~~•~ ~itarianU niVersaHChsut rchG, ayitesbiaTna skF orce, 5200
Fam in St, 77~-5899. 526-5200.
HoustonM issionC hurchP, O Box1 6M3ar3sh all7, 7006.5 29-8225.
Sun.,1 0:30a.mR.e vR. oberLt cartB',p astor.
lnEgity,P OB ox6 60087, 7266-60084.3 2-0414P.u b:M arginaNl ote.s
KingdomC ommunitCy hurch6, 14 E.1 9thS t, 77008.8 62-75337.4 8·
~~·:;~~1 ::~1e91c9O teicoailrn,7 7,0 07-76368.6 1-91◄9. NJ:
The Good News
St. RaphaelE cumenicaCl atlolicC hurch,8 90-617.D eaconG ary
Whea\ skyborgl!30111aol.can.
LONGVIEW(9 03)
Church Wit! A Vision MCC, PO Box 1287, 75606-1287. 753-1501.
Son., 10 a.m.a t 420 E.C ottons t.
~~?Ji:S~t. . 78407.7 92·5562.S un., 11,.m. . 7p.m. Rev.
RenaeP hiMippsa, storP. ub:V isio.n
Lesbian.lGaAyl lianceI, nc. POB ox6 47◄ 6, 79◄64·◄ 74 6. 791-4499.
Pub: Lambda Times
MlllAN0(915)
Holy TrinityC ommunityC hurch,1 607s . Main,7 9701. 570-4822.
Rev. GleonE .H ammetpt,a stor.
SANA NTONIO(2 10)
MCC,1 136W.W oodawn7, 82017. 3-4--0048.
RiverC ity LivingC hurch2, 02H olland7, 82127. 34--0377.
~vi:J:>~ommunity Ctiurch1, 390<C oonfyR d.1 93, 757035. 81•
6923.P astorD onnaA . Carr¢e!t.
WACO(B17)
MCC,P O Box2 20-437,6 712. 752-53;3~1
WICHITAF ALLS( 817)
MCC. POB ox8 09-i,7 63076. 96--2668.
Utah
LOGAN(S-01)
MCC,P OB ox4 285,8 43237. 50-5026S.u n.,1 1a.m.
SALT lAKE CITY (801)
Sa~ed Li!tlt~ ChnstM CC8, 23s . 600 E,8 4102-35075.9 6-0052.
Vermont
BURLINGTO(N80 2)
Di!llify3, O Jeensbu~R d, 05403-5752.
MCCP, O Box2 010,0 54078. 99-4442.
UnitarianU nivel'sa!istls0 <G ay & LesbianC oncerns1, 52 PearSl t.,
054018. 62-5630.
ESSEX JCT
ResurrectioAnp ostolicM inisbiesP, O Box 162,0 5452. Sr. Michelle
M.T homasp.a stor.
MONTPELIE(8R0 2)
!ntegity,c /o ChristE piscopaCl h~!;n,6 4 StateS t, 05602-2933.
Virginia
ALEXANDR(I7A0 3)
Affirmabo(Mn orrronsP),O B ox1 9334,2 2320-9343. 828-3096.
St Cyril'sE asternC hristianF ellcwship6, 038R ichmondH wy., #301,
22303~. 7896. "ByzanMcet llistianc ommuni.t•y
ARLINGTO(N7 03)
Oi!J)ityP, OB ox1 0037, 22210. 912-1662.
FALlS CHURCH(7 03)
Affirmatio(nM ormonsP),O B ox1 93342, 2320-~. 828-3096.
MCC,7 245L eeH wy, .220465. 32-0992&.I I., 6pm. at FairfaxU nitarian,
2 7H0un9t!! 'M illR d. Oakto.n
TelosM inislries(B aptistsP), O& x 3390,2 2043~. 2680.
NORFOLK(S O.)
Di!llilyP, O Box4 34,2 35016. 25-5337.
NewL ife MCC,P O Box 1026, 23501-10268.5 5-845.0 1530J ohnston'sA
d. 51!n., 10:30a.m6.,: 30p.m., Wed., 7:30p.~.a t 1530Johns!
onsRd.
UnitarianU niversalistfso r Lesbian& GayC oncerns7, 39Y armouth
St, 23510. 627-5371s.u n. . 11.,m.
RICHMOND(80·4 )
Affrimation( UnitedM elhocists)P. O Box 2~15, 23260-561.5 746-
7279.7 00W.F ranklinS t.
~tG~::~~i~~•~e~~/~f&~fari1,40.
ROANOK(E7 03)
BlueR idgeL ambdaP ress,P OB ox2 37,2 400.2 890-3184.
Lesbian & Gay Calhdics & E~scopalians, PO Box 4183, 24015.
774-0068.
MCCo l the Bue RidgeP, O& lx 204952, 4018. 366-083.9 Sun.,3 p.m.
at lklilaritrCt hurch2, 015G ranOOR d. SN. Pub: BueR idgeB anner.
VIRGL'IIBAE ACH(S O.)
All God'sC hildrenC ommunitCyh urch~. 85S . IndependencBel vd.•
#108,2 34524. 99-7096.
WIWAMSBU~ (804)
Foundationosf StoneM ITTistr,! e1s49N elsonD r., 23185.2 29-083.2
Teachings, embarsr,e treatsr,e l/ivals.
Washington
BELLINGHAM
An gos Among Us MCC, P.O. Box 4389, 98227·4389.
EVERETT
Ne\¥C reationM CC1, 11242 9thD rS E,9 8~·5228.
MOUNTV ERNON(2 06)
MCC,P O Box2 05n, Seallle9, 8102.3 25-6n5.
OLYMP1A(206)
EtemaLl i!7llM CC,2 07N .W ashingtcn9,8 501.
RICHlAND(5 09)
Riv" ol Li~ MCCP, O Box1 678, 99352-00595.◄ 4·9689.
ShalomU CC,5 05 McMurray9, 9352. 943-3927O. pen anda ffirming
cong.
SEATTLE(2 06)
Affirmation(M ormons.)P,O Box2 3223, 98102.8 20-5729P. ub:T he
~a~~ted Methcx:ists2)1, 15N .◄ 2nd, 98103.
Digni~B, ox2 03259, 8102-132. 5325-731.4
Evange1clatsConcemePd,O E lox2 01899, 8102-11899.3 2-340. 1
Grace Gospel Oiapel, 2052 NW 64th St, 98107. 784-8495. Sun.,
11a.m.,7 p.m.. Wed.7, ~.m. Jerryl a chinap, asbr. ,
~~~~t~k~,:i~f~~2421. Rev. Cheri L St.orc/1•
manp, astorc. anf Ofs erviceti mes.a ndl ocations.
OvertakeM CCP, OB ox6 612, Bellevue, 980088. 85--041 ◄. 12700S E
32ndSI.
Seattle First Baptist Church, 111 Harvard Ave., 98122. 325-6051.
Rcxtiey A. Romney.pastor.
SeatfeG ayN ews7, 04E .P ike,9 81223. 2◄-◄297.
UCCLJGC3,1 718lhA va.'E.1 4,9 8112-513. 23£9-3027.
Unitarianle sbians& Gays,6 5563 5thA ve.N E, 98115.◄ 83-0345.
SPOKAN(E5 09)
Affirmation(U nitedM ethodists)3, N. 9th St , Cheney9, 9004. 299-
2500.
EmmanueMl CC,P O Box 769, 99210. 838-'0085.S un.,1 0:30a.m.,
7p.ma. t 307W.◄ th Ave.
UnttariaOn !urch,3 21W .8 th, 992046. 24-4802.
TACOMA(206)
HillsideC ommurifyC hurch2, 508S . 39tl St , 9S4094. 75-23881
MCC,2 150S .C ushmanA ve,. 96-405-343287.2 -238.2
VANCOUVE(R20 6)
MCCa lhe Genie ShejlhefdP, O Box5 094, 986682. 53-8401.
West Virginia
MORGANTOW(3N0 4)
Free<b1F1e llow!ilip, POB ox1 5522, 65052. 92-778.- 4
Wisconsin
FOX VALLEY {414)
Angelo f HopeM CC.P OE lox6 72,G reetBi ay,5 43054. 96-868.8
MADl9JN (608)
FirstB aptisCt hurch5, 18N orthF ran~inl Ave., 537~5. 233-1~. Alan
Newtona, ssociatep astorA. Welcoming andA ffirminAg me nca n Baptist
congegadon.
~fui~fk~:~X ~·:~j.~ l~~~:J.Universitj Ave.
SUPflllOR(715)
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l.u1hera·nCsonceme,d POB ox1 6765, 3201-1676◄8.1 ·9663. ~.~':~~·.~~~?:2~~:/7.3 -1991
HealingJo
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Guided meditation and music for healing and reston,tion with vocals
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Tap into your healing power and potential through the process of
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PAGE 14 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Distribution of Second Stone in some
communities is sponsored by our
Outreach Partners. We invite you to
visit them for worship. _.,
DAYTON.OHIO
CAmmunity
liAspel
l,;hurch
"Gay positive, people
friendly House of
Prayer for all people!"
Sunday, 10 a.m.
546Xenia.Ave
Call (513)252 -8855
LONG BEACH. CALIFO.RNIA
FIRSTC ONGREGATIONACLH URCH
LONG BEACH
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
An Open and Affirming Congregation
We welcome you to worship
in a nurturing environment.
241 Cedar Ave • Long Beach CA 90802
(310) 436-2256 • Fa~ (310) 436-301!!
http:/ /users.aol.com/revmek/index/html
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNI
Mailbtg Address:
Post Office Box 14462
San Francisco, CA94114
Street Address:
50 Belcher Street
(between 14th St & Duboce)
Phone:
415-905-6509
E-Mail Address:
FreedomSF@AOL.com
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
C!t1,1orfc th!t eR ts11rrectiott
METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHU
5540 Eouth Woodlawn Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637-1621
"Serving Chicago's gay
and lesbian community
tor 15 years. "
Worship services
Sundays 10:30 a.m.
Sunday school
Sundays 10:30 a.m.
Ask us about our house groups,
Give us a call at312/288-1535
DES MOINES, IOWA
Church of the Holy Spirit
Metropolitan Community Church
POBox8426
Des Moines
IA50301
Tel.(515)284-7940
Visit us this Sunday at 6pm. Our
worship & office location is at
1548 8th Street, Des Moines, Iowa.
Calling people to new life.
Confronting the injustice,
Creating a community,
PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND
For LesB1Gay Inclusive
Worship in Rhode Island
1W1 INTEGRITY is a LesBiGay Ministry within
L~ -the E-piscopal Church INTEGRITY/RmIe etsa t 4:30p mo n the 2ndS un.o f
the montha t St. JamesE piscopaCl hurch( adckess
below)e. mailr: integily@aol.cofmor morem fo.
Join us at one of these
_Rainbow Congregations
St JamesE piscopaCl hurch,4 74F ruitH ill
Ave.N, o.P rovidencSee./ vicesS: un.a t 9:30a m.
St. Peter's & St Andrew's Episcopal
Church, 25 Pomona Ave., Providence.
Se!vk:eSsu: na. t8& 10amW, eda. t7 pm.
Interneht ttp://wMv.ids.neVsainlpanda
Churches in Germany and
Canada s~outfor gays
FRANKFURT, Germany (ENI) - A
Reformed church federation in Germany
has called for an end to discrimination
against gays in th e
church. .
Gays and lesbians should be able to
work as ordained ministers, and
"lesbian and gay couples who wish to
begin a life togeth er" should be able
to celebrate a church service of blessing,
acco rding to a statement from the
federation's synod in Bueckeburg,
reported by the German news agency
epd .
The Bund evangelisch-reformierter
Kirch en - an a ss ociation of six
Reformed parishes in Germany
which do not belong to any of Germany's
24 prot estant regional Landeskirchen
- is linked to the Evangelical
Church in Germany (EK.J).
In Toronto, the general secretary of
th e Anglican Church of Canada ,
Archdeacon Jim Boyles, has written
to the Federal Government supporting
proposed legislation to ban discrimination
based on sexual orientation .
"We do not 1>elieve that anyone
should be d iscriminated again st
because of gend er, race, creed, color or
sex ual o rientation , " Archdeac o n
Boyles wrote to th e Federal Justice.
Minister, Alan Rock. "I would like to
encourag e your government in its
endeavor to amend the Canadian
Human Rights Act to include sexual
orientation on the protected list."
Germ an Luthe ran church ac cepts
blessi ng of gay cou ple
THE LUTHERAN CHURCH of
Hamburg, Germ any, accept e d the
first public blessing of a gay couple by
AIDS chaplain Rain er Jarchow . "All .
peopl e are in need of blessing ." said
Bishop Maria Jepsen after a m eeting
with Jarchow.
Anyon e who wishes to r eceive
"God's word of comfort" on th eir common
path in responsibly living as
Christians, shou ld not be refused,
Jepsen said . She added that th e public
bles sing should -not be misunderstood
"in the sense of marriag e" and
reinterpreted for sociopolitical purpos
es .
' The synod of t he Evang elical
Lutheran Church of Latvia approved
a revised version of th e church consistory'
s resolution of September 1994
"On Pursuit of Homosexuality." The
revis ed re solution stated that homosexuality
is a "deadly sin" and cong
regations are instruct ed to exclude
from the eucharist all pr acticing
homos exual s who don't repent of
their homo s exuality . It also said
thos e "deliberately practicing homosexuality
and having chos en ii as
their way of life are not allow e d to
fulfill any duti es and positi ons in the
church hi erarchy ."
Th e North Elbian Evangelical
Lutheran Church has a duty "to unr eservedly
affirm marriage and its sp ecial
importance ," said its governing
board in a statement on "Marriage,
family and oth er lifestyl es." But the
German church also said an affirmation
of marriage doe s not have to go
hand in hand with a depr ecation of
other lifestyl es.
The Lutheran
l111lk of this
issue of
Second
Stone .
Ideal for
study
groups
-and bar
ministry!
SEEJHE
ORDER FORM
ON PA GE'.!'.!
And behold, a· certain lawyer stood up and put H im to the test, saying, aTeacher, what sfw/1 J
do to inherit eternal life?" A nd Jesus said to h;-m, "What is written in the Law? How does it
read to yau ?" And he answered and said, "You sha/1 /ove the Lord your God wit/, a// your
heart, and wit/1 all you r soul, and with a// your strength, and with a// your mind; and your
n eighbor as yourself" And Jesus said to him, "You haue answered correctly, do tins and you
w,/l/we" B { Tr-r
W1sb-\ to JUSTlfY hunself ,
he said to Jes us. . . lUKf 10: Z5-2ij
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C H APMA N U NI V ER S ITY , OR AN GE , C A
• Conn EC tio n '9 6 i s a f our-day
retreat exper ience with ot he r lesb
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include worship , keyn ote a ddresses,
workshops, sma ll group in ter actio n,
time to play, and time to reflect on
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you are on your journey of integrating
your spirihia lity and o rientation ,
this could be. a rich and rewarding
weekend for you.
Key 11ote Speakers:
Dr. Ra lp/1 B lair, founder of
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Dr. Jun e St e// cuscn l-Iagcn , tl1e
1993 recipient of Integrity's Morge
Gumm Award, teac h es Eng l ish at
Bronx Communi ty Co llege of the
City Unive rsity o f Ne~: York.
Na ncy and Chi p M ille r, whose son
died of AIDS, spend much of their
t ime trave li ng to congrega ti on s
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E vangelicals Concerned Western
Reg iona l Fcl/mvsl,ip is a no n-profit
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PAGE 15 • SECOND STONE • MAY/J UNE, 1996
Families affected by
AIDS find help through·
Christian ministry
By Lisa Bass
The Pasadena Citizen
PASADENA, Texas -On a quiet, treelined
street on the northwest side
of town, a dedicated network of helpers
are using biblical principles thousands
of years old to cope with one of
the most intractable problems of the
20th century.
His Touch HIV/ AIDS Ministries,
led in Pasadena by the Rev. Ray
Highfield, has turned the care for
and comfort of HIV-positive and
AIDS-infected men, women, children
and families into a calling not
always recognized by some church
groups.
The ministry currently operates a
transitional home for AIDS patients
that are unable to work, and a small
apartment building for infected
families, on its 6-acre compound.
But after extensive remodeling is
complete, the group hopes to offer a
unique set of services not now availab
le at one central site, including
housing facilities for families,
women and children, and teens; hospice
care; ac\ult and child day care
buildings; and a playground - a sort o(
"one stop shopping" for AIDS
patients.
"Historically, churches have been
there for all types of plagues," said
Highfield. "We seem to have
dropped the ball on this one . Initially
there was a real indifference
on the part of many churches because
most of the first patients were gay
and they didn't know how to minister
to them."
The ministry's transitional house
for HIV-positive and AIDS-infected
clients accepted its first patients in
July of 1995, and has served approximately
45 patients since that time .
Some patients stay for a few days,
some might stay for a year - but all
are grateful for the compassionate
care and clean, pleasant housing the
ministry offers.
Charles, a 33-year-old HIVpositive
client who wished that his
last name not be used, has been at the
ministry house for less than a week,
but already feels at home in his
shared room.
"I feel accepted here," he said.
"Rev. Highfield welcomed me with
open arms. I truly feel like I've found
a new family ."
Already, Charles has suffered a
brutal blow from the disease. His
wife died of complications from AIDS
on Dec. 8, 1995. Charles had discovered
he was HIV-positive only a
month before.
r'AlGAYELLOW PAGES TM INFORMING THE LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL &f"n
~ TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY SINCE 1973 ~
Complete gay-friendiy resources . .. ~ ~::inesses: accommodations, bars, bookstores, dentists, doctors, lawyers,
therapists, travel services, printers, Organizations, Media, Religious groups, Help lines & A.I.D.SJH.1.V. resources.
Listings broken down by State & City. Index & fast access phone list. UPDATED ANNUALLY.
For an application to be listed (no charge), or for details of current editions and prices,
or Information about mailing labels, please send a self-addressed stamped envelope to
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You can order direclly from the address above, or you can find us your local gay-friendly bookstores.
If you wish to order by phone with a credit card, please call A DIFFERENT LIGHT 1-800-343·4002;·
FAX (212) 989-2158; outside USA and Canada call 1-212-989-4850. (A Different Light has stores in
New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. They are not involved with production or publication of
Gayellow Pages, so please don't call them except to order.) ·
•1 wish all my readers had a copy of this very useful volume. If you live in Nowheresville, U.S.A., and haven't a clue
about how to find other gay folks, this book is indispensable. There's no way to remain isolated if you make use of
the information contained in the Gayel/ow Pages.• Pat Callfia, Tho Advocate Advisor
"By far the most comprehensive and up-to-date gay guide .. . Gayel/ow Pages .. . includes the standard entries for
bars and restaurants .. . But the Gayel/ow Pages excels thanks to its additional alphabetized listings by city for
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publications, businesses and more. In short, if an entity welcomes gay, lesbian and bisexual people, no matter how
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PAGE 16 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE. 1996
ki£:.
"She was the one that infected me,
but I don't blame her," he said. "I
never told her (that I was infected)
before she died. Knowing she was
already so sick, I didn't wa'1t to burden
her."
Her birthday would have been
March 31. He held a small ceremony
in her honor, lighting candles and
remembering their 16 years together .
"Even though she's dead and gone, I
still love her dearly," he said.
Charles, a slim, muscular man with
dark, soulful eyes, carries no visible
signs of the disease. Right now he's
healthy and able to take part in
activities that even some noninfected
couch potatoes would hesitate to try.
"I rollerblade," he said. "Right
now, I feel like I could run a
marathon."
But the insidious course of the disease
makes his future murky at best.
New treatments designed to slow the
progress of the virus are extending
the lifespans of patients dramatically,
but as of yet, no cure is in sight.
One man at the transitional home
has been infected with the virus for
14 years now, making him one of the
longest surviving HIV-positive
patients known to researchers.
"The state of Florida sent me a letter
saying I tested positive in 1982 -
but they never told me (until
recently)," according to Ray Flowers,
a patient at the house . "I could have
given it to my wife and child. My one
blessing is that I didn't.
''I'd like to live long enough to get
back with her. But the only way I can
do that is to live long enough for
them to find a cure."
'Tm kind of optimistic about the
future, but I'm kind of scared about it
too," Charles said . "I don't see myself
around after the year 2000."
But Charles refuses to allow HIV to
spiral him into the kind of depression
that can hasten the progres~ion of the
virus. He looks forward to the day he
can make a long-dreamed-of trip to
New York City, and chats· enthusiastically
about his plans to do volun-
Homosexuality
and
Christian
Community
Choon-Loong Soow, editor
Contributors to thie volume, all
members of the Princeton
Theological Seminary faculty,
addre,ss the various exegetical,
interpretive, and practical issues
pertaining to gays and lesbians in
the church. Ideal for churches and
individuals engaged in theological
reflection on this issue.
teer work with AIDS-infected children.
He is taking classes at Houston
Community College, working toward
a degree in psychology'. And he'd like
to try skydiving - although he's ruled
out bungee-jumping.
"Too dangerous," he laughs.
He looks forward to the day he can
tell his friends and family h e is
HIV-positive, without fearing their
reactions. His mother knows about
his disease, but his three brothers do
not.
Friends who are also AIDS-infected
know about his status, since they can
be trusted to keep his secret, and offer
comp115sionand understanding, but he
worries that noninfected friends who
■
"When we looked at
this property, we
probably had $50
in our bank
account ... When we
finish, we'll have a
property valued at
around a half million
dollars. We
believe God will
provide."
■
learn of his status will reject him.
"I want to tell them so badly but I'm
afraid to. I think they need to know
.but I'm afraid if I let them know,
they'll run away," he said.
Of all the burdens faced by HIVpositive
patients, discrimination is
possibly the only one that will not
eventually be solved by medical science.
"In the black community especially,
AIDS is hushed up," he said. "The
black community doesn't really
SEE ms TOUCH, Next Page
$14.99
Order from Second Stone Press, Page 22.
1..-...: ,'·t '·# j M« iiMfi
His Touch provides for families
From Previous Page
accept it. To them, it's a curse. It's
looked on as a white disease.
"But they're wrong. This disease
doesn't discriminate. It doesn't care
who you are."
"Just a few months ago, I was really
angry and tired of the prejudice,"
Flowers said. "Now I'd like to get a
· tattoo that says 'Biohazard,' to warn
everyone I meet about the dangers of
street drugs."
"These people are the modern-day
lepers," Highfield said . "They've
experienced so much rejection that
when they come into an atmosphere
of love, it 's overwhelming. They're
not used to being cared for."
Highfield and His Touch try to
bring the teachings of Jesus to their
ministry, helping all those in need
without regard to their faith, or
their previous failings. Highfield
applies the example of the Good
Samaritan to his work, believing
LETTERS,
FromPage23
corned with open arms.
God bless you in your work.
Sincere ly ,
Ardyce Fislt
Timonium, Maryland
We erred in article
on Sr. Gramick
Dear Second Stone:
Imagine my surprise when I read in
the Jan/Feb '96 issue of Second Stone
that I was a Franciscan Sister of the
Poor, as reported in your "Names
Making News" column. In fact, my
religious order is the School Sisters of
Notre Dame.
Moreover, you seem to have
afforded me the supernatural privilege
of bi-location by referring to me
as an advocate for the poor at Detroit
Central City Community Mental
Health, while in fact I am simply
the director of lesbian and gay ministry
for the Baltimore province pf the
School Sisters of Notre Dame .
While I am honored by the attribution,
I must confess that both facts
refer not to me, but to my co-chair at
the National Coalition of American
Nuns, Sr. Be th Rindler.
Although it is true that I and rriy
colleague, Fr. Robert Nugent, are
being investigated by the Vatican, it
is not for "heresy" but for alleged
"ambiguity" about what the
Catholic Church teaches about
homosexuality . Many people, including
Catholic bishops, do not know
that his reward lies in knowing that
he has made a difference.
His clients have included people
from all walks of life - from pastors
and college professors to homeless
indigents battling drug and alcohol
problems. The home has sheltered
Buddhists and MP.slims, Protestants
and Catholics.
"If they're Catholic, we arrange for
them to go to a Catholic church . If
they're Jewish, we arrange for them
to go to the synagogue,'' he said. "We
do not proselytize. Whether their
lifestyle is right or wrong is between
them and God ."
Highfield became ·,11volved with
AIDS outreach in the mid-80s, at a
time wh e n the dis ease was not yet
fully understood. Many people
shunned AIDS patients, believing
that they could become infected with
the HIV virus through casual contact
- a simple handshake or a peck on the
cheek, for instance.
Highfield took the opposite tack,
that numerous members of the
Catholic hierarchy have mad e some
positive statements about lesbian and
gay issues, as Fr. Nugent and I document
in our r~cent book, Voices of
Hope .
Thank you for clarifying this informanning
the front lines of the battle
agair.st AIDS and in ihe process forging
a new role for religious groups
that had previously rejected HIVpositive
populations.
"A friend of mine, whom I went to
school with, introduced me to the
AIDS situation. He was homosexual
and he was infected,'' Highfield
said . "I saw back then that the
church needed to prepare for this epidemic
- now a pandemic."
Highfield, along with members of
the national board of His Touch,
envisioned a facility in Pasadena
devoted to transitional housing for
AIDS patients back in 1990. The
planning, fundraising, site acquisition
and remodeling of the initial house
were a work of love, and faith.
"When we looked at this property,
we probably had · $50 in our bank
account,'' he said. "When we finish,
we'll have a property valued at
around a half million dollars . We
believe God will provide."
mation for your readers.
Sincerely,
Jeannine Gramick, SSND
Ed. Note: Our apologies to Sr. Gramick
and Sr. Rindler for tlte inaccuracies
in the "Names Making News"
article.
Recent finding by top biblical scholars offer a
radical new view on the Bible
w~;! Bible and homosexuality.
Really Says
About
Homosexuality
• ..,.,,j,,,lmrh<•-,-tf,,•-
·' ·"' '""'
Daniel A.Helminiak, Ph.D.
JoknS . SpOnQ
Kt1ow
A Gay My liberation
Theology
Name
Daniel A. Helminiak , Ph.D., respected theologian
and Roman Catholic priest , expla ins in a
clear fashion fascinating new insights .
" ... will help any reasonably open and attentive
reader see that the Bible says something
quite different on this subjecl from what is often
claimed." - L. William Countryman
Whal the Bible Really Says
About Homosexuality, $9.95, paperback
ORDER FROM SECOND STONE PRESS.
SEEPAGE 22.
Writer and activist RICHARD CLEA VER
takes a fresh approach to the ongoing
debate by examining the struggles of gay
men and lesbians in the church through the
lens of liberation theology. He offers a
"gay reading" of scripture, but one that is
also spiritually challenging to all readers.
Cleaver interweaves biblical reflections
with historical; social, political, and personal
commentary.
Know My Name, by Richard Cleaver
Now available in paperback, $15.99
Order from Second Stone Press, page 22
Chnst1an Responses to AIDS
The facility met with initial resistance
from the city of Pasadena when
it applied -for a certificate of occupancy,
which Highfield believes
stemmed in part from the nature of
the group home.
"Someday, the city of Pasadena
will be proud that we ' re here,"
Highfield said.
Opinions in the neighborhood have
ranged from grudging acceptance to
outright enthusiasm, according to
Highfield.
"I was surprised," he said. "I
expected a lot of opposition from the
neighbors. But I'm impressed with
(the residents of) Pasadena, by the
openness of the community .
"These are caring people, who know
not to be afraid."
• •
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A SINGING SOMETHING: Womanlst Reflections on
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A HUNOREO DAYS FROM NOW, e,q:,loratlon of
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TOORDER
PLEASE SEE PAGE 22
PAGE 17 • SECOND STONE• MAY/JUNE, 1996
Events
Announcements in this section are provided
free of charge as a service 10 Christian organizations.
To have an event listed. send infor-
1nalio11 lo Second Slone, P.O. Box 8340,
New Orleans, LA 70182, FAX lo (504)891-
7555, e-mail secstone@aol.com.
Gay, Lesbian and Christian:
Our Treasure
JUNE 6-9, We've found a treasure, not
made of gold, but of of very souls; liviug
life as faith -filled lesbians and gay men;
persons whom God created. This 20th
annual event for lesbians, gay men and
bisexuals of all colors, their families and
friends, will continue to explore issues of
sexuality in the context of Christian faith
and practice. The process includes daily
worship, small group sharing, workshops,
play, and celebration. Led by John
McNeill, Virginia Ramey Mollenkott,
Rev. LaPaula Turner, Scott Anderson and
Robert Raines. Fee, $295. Contact: Kirkridge,
2495 Fox Gap Road, Bangor, PA
18013-9359 (610-588-1793).
Religious Life Weekend
and Retreat
JUNE 7-9, The Mercy of God Community
sponsors the fifth annual gathering at the
Xavier Retreat Center, Convent Station,
New Jersey. The weekend is designed for
those who want to expl ore the possibility
of service in religious life. For information
contact the Mercy of God Community,
P.O. Box 41055, Providence, RI
02940 - 1055.
CMI Retreat:
The Heart: Hospitality,
Healing, Hope
JUNE 10-14, The Serra Retreat House in
Malibu, Calif., is the setting for this
Communications Ministry retreat to be led
by Ron Raab and Chris Machado. CMI
(an organization of gay Catholic priests
and brothers and lesbian sisters) offers a
safe opportunity for people to come and
share their faith journey for the purpose of
nurturing the ongoing integration of
sexuality/spirituality and ministry as gay,
lesbian and bisexual people. Fee, $355.
For information write to: CMI Retreat
Committee, P.O. Box 10658, Chicago, IL
60610-0658.
sponsored gathering. Bryn Mawr College,
Philadelphia, is the setting. The theme is
"If My People Who Are Called By My
Name .. ." Fee, $85. For information contact
Pilgrim Fellowship Church, P.O.
Box 4306, Elwyn, PA 19063, (610)237-
1367.
Sisters in a Strange Land:
A Retreat for Christian
Lesbians
JUNE 21-23, Join with others on the
shores of Lake Michigan to explore how
lesbians are challenging and reshaping
Christian spirituality from a feminist perspective.
Sponsored by Leaven, Inc ., this
retreat is partially funded with a grant from
United Church Board for Homeland Ministries.
For information, call Melanie Morrison,
(517)855-2277 or write Leaven, P.O.
Box 23233, Lansing, MI 48909.
GLAD Alliance Annual Event
. JUNE 21-24, Members and friends of the
Gay, Lesbian and Affirming Disciples will
gather in Santa Fe, New Mexico at the
Plaza Resolana Conference Center for
"Centering on the Edge." Facilitating will
be Rev. Mary Jacobs, co-pastor of Desert
Dove Christian Church in Tucson and
immediate past First Vice Moderator of
the Christian Church (Disciples of
Christ), and Professor J. Cy Rowell, Professor
of Religious Education and Director
of Continuing Education at TCU's Brite
East Coast ACTS Weekend Divinity School. For registration informa-
JUNE 21-23, The Eastern regional tion, write GLAD Event, P .O. Box
ADVANCE Christian Ministries- 11876, Knoxville, TN 37939.
PAGE 18 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Integrity National Convention
JUNE 27-30, "Approaching the New Mil lennium
with Integrity" is the theme of
this annual gathering of gay, lesbian and
bisexual Episcopalians. New York City
during Gay Pride is the setting for this
organization to ponder a very active year
in the life of their church ... and to relax
and enjoy. For information contact
Integrity/New York, P.O. Box 20067,
New York, NY 10011.
UCC Third National
Meeting of Women
JUNE 27-30, The United Church of Christ
presents "Voices and Visions: Third
National Meeting of Women" featuring
Barbara Ehrenreich, June Goudey, Bernice
Powell Jackson and Christine Smith. For
information call 1-800-653-0799.
Supportive Congregations
International Gathering
JUNE 28-30, "Dancing at the Table: Reimagining
the Church" is the theme of
this conference, sponsored by the Supportive
Congregations Network and the
Church of the Brethren Women's Caucus.
Manchester College in North Manchester,
Indiana, is the setting. Any congregation
or individual interested in finding an
affirming place for lesbian, gay and bisexual
members in the Brethren and Mennonite
churches is welcome. For information
write to P .O. Box 6300, Minneapolis,
MN 55406 or call (612)305-0315 or email
scnetwork@aol.com.
UCCL/GC National Gathering
JUNE 30-JULY 4, The United Church
Coalition for Lesbian/Gay Concerns meets
at Massachusetts Institute of Technology
in Boston. Rev. Dr. Joan M,rrtin and Rev.
Dr. Carter Heyward are featured g_uests.
"Pluralism and Power" is the theme. Fee,
$85. For information contact John W.
Lardin, 23324 Manor Rd., N . , New Boston,
MI 48164, (313)753-4808,
jwlardin@aol.com.
connECtion '96
JULY 4-7, Chapman College in Orange
County, Calif oi;nia is the setting for this
year's national gathering of Evangelicals
Concerned. Featured speakers include Dr.
Ralph Blair, founder of EC, June Steffen sen
Hagen, author of Rattling Those Dry
Bones: Women Changing the Church, and
Nancy and Chip Miller, who are affiliated
with the Kentucky Southern Baptist Convention
and whose son died of AIDS. For
information call (212)517-3171.
GLPCI & COLAGE
Conference
JULY 4- 7, The Regal Hotel in Minneapolis
is the setting for this conference for
lesbian, bisexual, transgender and gay parents,
their children, friends and family, ·
hosted by Minnesota Families. "Proud
Parents Make Proud Kids" is the theme.
The conference, sponsored by Gay and
Lesbian Parents Coalition International, is
open to all gay, lesbian, bisexual and
transgender individuals involved in parenting
roles. For information contact Minne sota
Families, GLPCI '96, P.O. Box
11270, St. Paul, MN 55111-0970,
(612)924 -3049.
Gay and Lesbian
Family Week
AUGUST 3-11 , The Gay and Lesbian Parents
Coalition has declared the first week
in August "Gay and Lesbian Family
Week." The organization will celebrate the
week in Provincetown, Mass. GLPCI will
host a barbecue and the Provincetown
Chamber of Commerce will suggest activities
f~r families to enjoy during the week.
For information contact GLPCI, P.O. Box
50360, Washington, DC 20091,
(202)583-8029, FAX (201)783-6204.
World Gathering on
Bereavement
AUGUST 14-18, This international conference
brings together the bereaved,
bereavement support organizations and
professionals. More than 90 workshops
and sharing groups are offered. The Red
Lion Airport Hotel in Seattle is the setting.
The conference is sponsored by
Accord Aftercare Services of Louisville,
Kentucky and Family Services, Seattle .
For information call (800)346-3087 or
(206)246-6142.
First National Gathering
of Welcoining and
Affirming Baptists
.AUGUST 16-18, Lake Street Church
(W &A), Evanston, Illinois, is the setting
for the inaugural gathering of the Welcoming
and Affirming Baptists. Keynote
speakers are Peggy and Tony Campolo.
Among the workshops and forums being
planned are discussions of the "disfellowshipping"
situation, resources for
W &A ministries and planning for the next
gathering at the 1997 Biennial. The organization
had not released registration information
as of press time.
Gay Male Rites of Passage:
Moving Beyond Coming
Out to Being Out
AUGUST 16-18, How can gay men ritually
negotiate their identity-development
tasks and spiritual challenges? This w,eekend
will channel joys, rages, griefs, and
powers of gay experience, providing spiritual
tools to nurture happy, open, successful
lives. Fee, $225. Contact: Kirkridge,
2495 Fox Gap Road, Bangor, PA 18013-
9359 (610-588-1793).
PFLAG National Conference
OCTOBER ll-14, The Crystal Gateway
Marriott in Washington, D.C. is the setting
for the annual gathering of Parents,
Friends and Family of Lesbians and Gays.
"Love Takes Action - Building A Nation
Of Equality" is the theme. For information
contact The Balcom Group, (202)686-
0474, balcomgrp@aol.com.
Church & Or anization News
Alliance of Christian
Churches unites
independent churches
A NEW ORGANIZATION of independent
congregations adopted its
constitution and by-laws on Feb. 26.
The Alliance of Christian Churches
will not be a denomination and every
member church remains independent,
according to Jerry Cook, moderator of
the ACC and pastor of White Rock
Community Church in Dallas. "The
purpose is to create a spirit of cooperation
among independent congregations
where churches will be able to
come together in endeavors or missions,
Christian education, fellowship
and community prayer to more
effectively meet the needs of an everexpanding
gay and lesbian community,"
Cook said. The opening charter
meeting will be held in Houston
beginning Sept . 30. Information about
the Alliance of Christian Churches
may be obtained by calling (214)320-
0043 or by writing 722 Tenison Memo0
rial Rd., Dallas, TX 75223.
Disfellowshipped Baptist
churches invited
to join UFMCC
THE METROPOLITAN Community
Church of San Francisco welcomed
representatives from the five Bay
Area Welcoming and Affirming
American Baptist congregations during
its worship service April 27 - a
celebrati911 of the congregation's 26th
anniversary.
·Four of the five churches represented
- First Baptist Church of
Berkeley, Lakeshore Avenue Baptist
Church of Oakland, New Community
of Faith in San Jose, and San Leandro
Community Church were disfellowshipped
earlier this year by the
American Baptist Churches of the
West for joining the Welcoming and
Affirming Congregation program ,
Dolores Street Baptist Church of San
Francisco was also represented.
Representatives from each of the
five congregations received a certificate
from Rev. Jim Mitulski, pastor of
MCC San Francisco, recognizing each
drnrch for its struggle to be a place of
affirmation for gay and lesbian people
. The certificates were accompanied
by a letter inviting the congre-,
gations to join the Universal Fellowship
of Metropolitan Community
Churches.
"We believe that God calls some to
make a prophetic stance within their
denominations and that God calls
others beyond the bounds of those
churches in their ministries.
Whichever path you are called to,
know that we are united with you in
spirit and in prayer," the letter said.
White Rock Church
serves PWA
community
THE FRIENDS MINISTRY'S General
Store of White Rock Community
Church in Dallas has become a major
resource to the PWA community. The
store has given out thousands of dollars
in dry .goods. White Rock
stepped in when a local PW A agency
faced a funding loss. The church provided
volunteers and almost $3000 in
goods and donations. The Friends
Ministry sponsors an Adopt-A-Friend
program for $10 a month and the Gen-
Names Makin News
Bishop Melvin G. Talbert and
Rev. Jeanne Audrey Powers
BISHOP TALBERT, president of the
National Council of Churches, and
Transitions
THE REV. KARL SPATZ, pastor of
Christ Episcopal Church in Las
Vegas for the past 26 years, died
March 10. He was 64. Rev. Spatz was
one of the first clergy in Southern
Nevada to freely speak about AIDS.
He also accepted and encouraged gay
men and lesbians to worship at his
church and welcomed them as members
of his congregation. He was a
pioneer of tolerance and compassion,
often referring to the congregation as
"the household."
Rev. Powers, associate general secretary
of the United Methodist General
Commission of Christian Unity and
Interreligious Concerns, was honored
with the social action awards of the
Methodist Federation for Social
Action during the UMC General Conference
in April. Talbert, who presides
over the San Francisco Area of
the UMC, has been an outstanding
leader in the UM Council of Bishops
on issues of peace and justice since
1980, including the fight against
racism and homophobia and opposition
to the Gulf War. Powers is a UM
church executive for ecumenical
affairs who has helped lead the
Methodist church in every conceivable
justice issue. She was forced into
silence on the issue of homosexuality
after she came out as a lesbian last
summer.
era! Store is raising money through
the sale of stick-on red ribbons and
white hats featuring red ribbons. For
information on helping these ministries,
readers may call Jerry Lynq;
(214)823-3899 or Hillary Koenig
(214)320-0106.
Hawaii church celebrates
25th anniversary
THE KE ANUENUE O Ke Aloha
Metropolitan Community Church of
Honolulu is celebrating its 25th anniversary.
The Rev. John Bullock is
pastor of the 55-member congregation.
The congregation held its anniversary
celebration April 20 at Harris
United Methodist Church. The Rev .
Chnst1an Commun1t News
Troy Perry, founder of the Metropolitan
Community Churches, was scheduled
to speak; The church holds a
. service at 7 p;m. every Sunday at'lhe
Church of the Crossroads.
New church starts
in Detroit
A NEW CHURCH to serve the needs
of the lesbian and gay community in
the Detroit area held its first service
April 14. The Church of St. Sergius
and St. Bacchus will hold weekly
services in Southfield at Calvary
Lutheran ·church. The pastor of the
church is Rev. John Roberts, a former
Lutheran minister. The church may
be reached at (810)647-9865.
New group of Catholics forms to
fight homophobia in church
By Pat Burson
St. Paul Pioneer Press
Sf. PAUL, Minn. - A Catholic bishop
known for clashing with the Vatican's
view that gays are
"intrinsically disordered" joined
Twin Cities Catholics in announcing a
group to combat homophobia within
the church. Members of the new
group, the Catholic Coalition for
Sexual Minorities, said the Rev. Thomas
Gumbleton, auxiliary bishop of
the Archdiocese of Detroit for the
past 27 years, inspired their effort to
open the Roman Catholic Church to
people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual
and transgender.
During a 1994 visit to the Twin
Cities, Gumbleton said the Vatican's
teachings on homosexuality have
alienated gays. During the announcement
of the new group, he reiterated
those views. "There is a need for a
very real pastoral effort to reach out
lo prevent the alienation and the
sense of abandonment by the church
that so many people of gay, lesbian,
bisexual or transgender backgrounds
have experienced," Gumbleton said
at a news conference at the Minnesota
Church Center.
Coalition organizers, who represent
about a dozen area parishes, hope to
join the discussion about the church's
teachings on sexuality and its
approach to persons of nontraditional
sexual orientations. They also hope
to counter views of groups that, they
say, have distorted complex church
teachings in ways that have promoted
discrimination and hostility.
"I don't think there's a place for a
homophobic church in this society,"
said coalition member John Watkins,
an openly gay man and a parishioner
at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis.
"I feel we're acting within what
we've all been taught as Christ's
message within the church," said
coalition member Mary Simone
White, a parishioner at St. Joan of
Arc Church in Minneapolis . White's
son died of complications from AIDS
in 1993.
Coalition organizers wrote a letter
. earlier this month to the Rev. Kevin
McDonough, vicar general and moderator
of the curia for the Archdiocese
of St. Paul and Minneapolis,
detailing their plans. They say they
have not received a reply, McDonough
could not be reached for comment.
For more information about the
Catholic Coalition for Sexual Minorities
call 612-340-0618.
Ecumenical & Inclusive
.:::~r;i~':1 ii,t LJ!
';:,, .l(j\·;·I' :· 1~ .-· . . \~1.1• '.··. / ·,•·J.J, ;·;,
(11' ,:I' /! . (. , r 1 1n,
We are a Christian community of men
and women from various Catholic and ,
Protestant traditions involved in minstries
of Jove, · compassion and reconciliation.
We live and work in the world,
supporting ourselves and our ministries.
We are inspired by the spirit of St
Francis and St. Clare. Like the ecumenical
Taize Community we are not canonically
affiliated with any denomination.
For more infonnation or a copy of our
newsletter, Footsteps, please write us:
Vocation Director
Dept. 55, PO Box.8340
New Orleans, LA 70182
Mercy of God Community
PAGE 19 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Good 'behaving' from
Marsha Stevens
Music
FANS OF MARSHA STEVENS who
have not been fortunate enough to
hear her in concert recently should be
aware of two little gems that any CD
player can bring to life as a festive
spiritual experience. BALM (Born
Again Lesbian Music) Ministries
rather quiet!; · eased two new CDs
by Stevens late last year.
"I Will Not Behave Like Prey" is
• Stevens' newest release on her own
label. It is sixth in a line of albums
and a concert video. Once again, Stevens
manages to stay in what she
calls "a narrow field that is wide
open," with music specifically relevant
to the gay experience in the service
of Christ. While much of the
title cut could apply to a wider SingerandcomposerMarshaStevens
Christian audience eschewing victimization
and blame and choosing to Know it Best: Inclusive Hymns for the
stand for Christ, some lyrics remain Church." Produced by Glenna
unquestionably applicable lo the Shepherd, the GD is a collection of
marginalized gay and lesbian com- everyone's favorite hymns, with lyrmunity.
"That hateful preacher's not ics revised in inclusive fashion, and
our foe, the enemy is hate; I will not sung in Stevens' unique style. The 14
be a victim or be kept outside The tracks include "In the Garden," "It is
Gate," Stevens sings. Well," "I Love to Tell the Story,"
The CD was produced and arranged "Great is Thy Faithfulness," and
by Chris Lobdell with Stevens writ- "Amazing Grace." Listeners will paring
or sharing credit for music on two ticularly appreciate Stevens' acapcuts
and lyrics on six of the ten tracks. pella treatment of "There is a Balm
Bold titles like "The Body Of Christ in Gilead."
Has AIDS" and "Love is the Only Stevens' music breaks through the
Law" are a teaser for what's in store religious rhetoric so many have come
from this diverse set of upbeat music to hate and talks about everyone's
about triumph in the struggle. longing to see purpose in their exist-
Stevens is the composer of the popu- ence and healing in their lives.
Jar hymn "For Those Tears I Died" "I can't imagine anything I would
which appears in almost every rather do," Stevens says.
hymnal in use. She wrote that song - "Occasionally people ask me why I
when she was 16 - at the very begin- don't cross over into the bar or dub
ning of her musical career. (In 1969, scene, and I have to tell them that I
Pat Boone called her to ask if he don't think people are attracted to
could record it.) Stevens' coming out my music because I'm the best singer
as e lesbian took her out of the big or performer or musician around. Peomainstream
Christian music market pie are attracted to my passion for
and she gets little play on Christian what I do."
music radio stations. Likewise, her Stevens continues to live her dream:
Christian music keeps her out of the to minister to the gay community
gay pop music scene. through her music. "We' re a very
These days, she performs in concert wounded people," she says~ "Wolves
in churches around the country, trav- have been among the fold. The more
eling in a 9' by 35' RV with her spou- that we walk in the light, the more
se-manager, Suzanne McKeag, and healing will come about by itself ."
their cocker spaniel and cat. For information on Marsha Stevens'
The other CD released by Stevens music, contact BALM. P.O. Box 1981,
late last year is "For Those Who Costa Mesa, CA 92628.
PAGE 20 • SECOND STONE • MAY/ J UN E, 1996
A different kind of gay travel book
Not just an accidental tourist
Books
LA WREN CE BISCONTINI is a gay
Christian author and traveler who
has gathered his accounts of his journeys
to over twenty countries on
several continents into a travel book
that stands out in a refreshingly different
way from most gay travel literature
. There are no descriptions of
circuit parties and no lips on finding
hot cruise spots.
"The goal of the book is to put the
traveler or tourist into the world, and
not separate him or her from it by just
visiting gay bars," said Biscontini,
who put over a decade of work into
The One -Percent Factor: An Eccentric
Unicorn's Approach to Touring and
Traveling. "I don't believe the market
has seen a first-hand travel book
that's so filled with wholesome,
exciting, autobiographical gay fun,"
he said.
Many of Biscontini's travel journals,
or "logs," as he calls them, fill the
pages of The One -Percent Factor,
among them: his youthful first glimpses
of Europe, an Australian adventure,
excursions to South and Central
America, and journeys to the Middle
and Far Easts.
''The title itself has nothing to do
with claims that ten percent of the
Western population is gay," Biscontini
said. "It is entirely an invention
of mine ... Indeed, if there is only one
powerful 'g' word in the book, it is just
as much 'God' as it is 'gay."'
One of Biscontini's experiences with
God is revealed in his account of a
summer trip to the South Pacific
Islands in 1983. The adventure was a
graduation present from his father. In
Bora Bora Biscontini writes:
"I boarded 'le truck' with a few
other hotel guests, and we set off for
Mass. Little did I know the magnificent
treat that was in store for me!
The locals were very friendly; two
boys handed out the Mass schedule.
At starting time, everyone moves into
the small church. The altar and
statues make lavish use of the many
flowers around. The small windows
let the sunlight pour in and also
enable everyone to hear the roosters
crowing next door.
''The children sit on and around the
altar area, so their parents (and
visitors!) occupy the limited seats . It
reminded me of Jesus and the children,
how close the children sit to the
priest! What a truly warm sight to
see! The entire congregation has on
Eccentric unicorn: Lawrence Biscontini
the 'Sunday' best outfits - from
dresses and hats to the freshest of
flowers ... The smiling faces of the
children reminded me of two things
that always remain universal,
regardless of how far away from
home one may go: 1) God's love is everywhere,
. and 2)everyone smiles in
the same language . Seventy five percent
of the Bora Bora population is
made up of these adorable, smiling
children!
"Mass was given by a friendly priest
with the help of a boy and a girl,
natives who read. The Mass was an
interesting mixture of French and
Tahitian languages. It lasted about
an hour. (I'm not sure because l don't
wear a watch in paradise.) Perhaps
the most exciting part of the Mass,
indeed, what made it up, was the
singing! Without music, one woman
leads everyone through the songs and
chants ... After Mass ... I stood outside
and really admired the native lifestyle.
The women with their babies,
dresses, and hats made me so happy
as I just watched them. What a
morning !"
Attending church is one of Biscontini'
s ways of making a quick connection
with a different culture. In Buenos
Aires on October 12, 1990 he writes:
"I was very impressed by the quantity
of young Argentines who [passed
the facade of the Cathedral) and
crossed themselves religiously as
they hurried by, obviously
SEE UNICORN, Next Page
Coming on video: The Bible
By David Briggs
Associated Press Religion Writer
EVEN CECIL B. DeMILLE would
have been impressed.
Casts of thousands. Multimilliondollar
budgets. And a running time of
over 250 hours.
Call it the biblical epic to end all
· biblical epics. A South African com_
pany is planning a filmed dramatiza.
tion of the entire Bible, word for
word.
Visual International of Cape Town
has already released the first fourvideo,
four-hour films of the Gospel
of Matthew and the Book of Acts.
Production is -planned to begin later
this year on the Book of Esther .
By somewhere around 2010, the com-
UNICORN,
From Previous Page
Catholic. .. I stumb led upon a mass just
in its beginning stages and I sang the
"Senor, ten piedad" part of the mass
with the congregation. It was
someth ing with which I was very
familiar - and it was good after a
nine-hour flight with only thre e
hours of sleep. It was God letting me
know that He was with me. · Here,
'down under ,' I could s till pick up
immediat ely on a part of society, in
■
Wherever I go, no
matter what the
culture, whenever
I find a Catholic
church, I can
immediately
relate to at least
one aspect of
culture!
■
this case the Roman Catholic Mass,
and .fit right in! Wherever I go, no
matter what the culture, whenever I
find a Catholic church, I can imme diately
relate to at least one aspect
of culture! This is an example of what
most definitely is traveling and not
'touristing ."'
Biscontini's travels have not been
without danger. H e wri tes of his
experience iri Puerto Rico as the center
pany plans to have made the edi;e
Bible available on videocassette.
In an age when some homes have
more videos than books, "The Visual
Bible" is the next logical step to
keeping Scriptures widely available
to contemporary audiences, company
officials say.
"It's kind of like Gutenberg when he
came out with the Bible in print,"
said David C. Seibert, president of
Dallas-based Visual Entertainment
Inc., which is distributing the videos
in North America. "This is a new generation
where we have it on video."
The four-video cassette packages of
"Matthew" and "Acts," which retail
for $99.95 each, are available by telephone
and mail order. Plans call for
the videos to be released to the genof
Hurricane Hugo blasted through on
September 18, 1989:
"I walked ... outside, trying to step
around and on top bf the broken glass
everywhere, through the hole of
where my large, picture-window in
the bedroom used to exist. i saw the
wasteland of Puerto Rico ... No trees
were standing, only twigs without
leaves ... I saw my socks, underwear,
ti es and other items of clothing scattered
among the rocks, grass, trees,
and debris of broken glass ... " - an
observation he made during the calm
of the eye of the storm. The winds
started up again from the opposite
direction and brought even more
destruction. "God did not abandon me
through the experience,'' Biscontini
writes. "He carried me. I know this
because there is no way I could have
preserved any amount of sanity having
to live in what had been my house
for those twelve hours, witnessing its
own undoing, without divine aid."
In addition to the travel logs, the
final chapters of The One-Percent
Factor are dedicated to the philosophy
of travel itself: what makes a
traveler and a tourist, with critical,
thoughtful ponderings of the status of
the world as it now exists. Here Biscontini
includes poetry he has written
during his travels through the years.
Most interestingly, learning what
exact ly is the enigmatic "one percent
factor" of the title brings great light
to those concerned with trans-cultural
studies. The One-Percent Factor can
serve, then, not only as an alternative
guidebook for both the arm-chair
tourist and real life traveler , but also
as a stimulant to those who ponder
the size of the planet, and the similarities
that everyone on it share.
Videos
era! bookstore market by September,
Seibert said.
The videos feature established
actors such as Richard Kiley, Dean
Jones, Jennifer O'Neill and James Brolin
acting out the words of the Bible
in settings in Tunisia and Cape Town
that recreate life in the Middle East
in the first century. The director is
the South African filmmaker
Reghardt van den Bergh.
The "Matthew" video begins with
an aging Apostle Matthew, played
by Kiley, recalling the events he witnessed
as a young man. The film portrays
events in the life of Jesus as
described in the Gospel from his birth
to the resurrection. American actor
Bruce Marchiano plays Jesus as being
filled with warmth and humor, in
contrast to the somber demeanors of
many actors who have played the
role .
The "Acts" video tells the story of
the young Christian church, with
Jones in the role of the physician
Luke. The conversion of Paul, the
martyrdom of Stephen and the minis-
Gatherings
try of Peter are all dramatized .
Company officials say they chose
these biblical books as the first in the
series based on their ability to be
translated word for word to the screen
and keep viewer interest. They say
they realize it's going to be a lot
tougher making a compelling film out
of books such as Leviticus, where long
passages are devoted to spelling out
the details of religious laws and rituals
.
But their goal is to have 66 books of
the Bible on video within 15 years,
and to eventually reach 1 billion people
with "The Visual Bible."
More than 90 percent of American
homes have Bibles, and research
indicates that people are 20 percent
more likely to want to see something
rather than read it, according to Visual
Entertainment.
"It's a book people have. Whether
they read it or not, they have one,"
Seibert said. -
Now, if the company's plans go
ahead on schedule, by sometime
early in the next millennium,
whether or not people have read the
Bible, they can see the video.
For information on "The Visual
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SINCE
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Response
Letters
Seattle, Washington
Mother of gay
man proud of her
Baptist pastor
Dear Second Stone:
I am writing concerning your article in
the Jan / Feb'% issue about the four
Baptist churches disfellowshipped
by the Western Region of Amencan
Baptists .
I attend Seattle First Baptist
Church where Dr. Rodney Romney is
pastor. I thought you might be i~terested
in what Dr . Romney wrote m an
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SECOND STONE, a national ecumenical
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gay, lesbian and bisexual people.
PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Jim-Bailey
open letter to a colleague in ministry:
"I know you gave strong leadership
for the removal of [ the gay-affirming
churches from the regional association
.] I know you have a large church
and that you have the reputation of
being a strong preacher. But I also
know that many are hurt by your ministry
. I am referring here in general
to that ten percent of the human population
that through no choice of
their own are destined to be gay or
·lesbian, and specifically to the four
American Baptist Churches in the
Bay Area that you ardently and
zealously helped get removed from
the .region. I am totally unable to
believe that ministry allows us the
options to hurt anyone knowingly and
willingly ... . .
"Once again we have given the
world at large more reason for writing
off the church as an institution
totally out of step with its times ancj
critical and unsympathetic to the
human burdens that others carry ...
" ... ! can only hope that someday you
will wake up to the sad reality that
what you helped the churches of
Northern California to do on January
6, 1996, will not be marked as a victory
for Jesus but a day of reg~ession
when his body was once agam sundered
by earnest people whose love
was not as large as his."
I am a subscriber to your newspaper
and the mother of a gay son. It gives
me a great deal of comfort to attend a
church where Dr. Romney is the pas tor,
and where my son is always we!-
SEE LETTERS, Page 17
c.flf.. Pontius' Puddle
- - - -- --- - -- ·~ ·-·- - -----
Commentary
Take your stand against
ignorance and intolerance
By Rev. Mel White
Keeping In Touch
WHEN I STILL LOOKED good in
short pants and a bare chest, those
many moons ago, my family camped
on the Merced River in Northern Cal-.
ifornia. I can still remember lying on
a grassy bank in the hot sunshine
staring at silvery, speckled trout
swimming in the crystal-clear
waters. One year, we were horrified
to discover that a factory upstream
had poured tons of toxic pollutants
into the water. The clean, uncloμded
current had turned murky yellow and
smelled of dead fish and chemical
sludge. Fortunately, the people who
lived on that river mobilized their
forces. They used petitions, lawyers,
a boycott, and the ballot box to save
their beloved stream.
As Minister of Justice of the Universal
Fellowship of Metropolitan Community
Churches, I have to say it
again: The souls of our various nations
are being polluted by a toxic cloud of
ignorance and intolerance against
God's gay and lesbian children that
leads directly to suffering and to
death. The primary polluters are
Catholic and protestant leaders so
committed to their current anti homosexual
course that they can't ·
deal honestly with the growing
mountain of evidence that homosexual
orientation is not a choice or
something to be changed, but a gift
from God to be accepted, celebrated,
and lived with integrity.
Are there pastors, priests, or poli ticians
in your town who pollute the
environment with their own toxic
flow of ignorance and intoleranc e?
Take your stand against the poison
that cripples and kills our sisters and
brothers. When you hear voices poisoning
the minds and hearts of your
neighbors, copy or tape the untruth to
have an accurate record. Then call,
write, or visit the polluter. Share
the truth in love ; If the polluter
refuses to hear you (in the spirit of
Matthew 18:15-17), then write a letter
to your newspaper editor , call
. your radio and television stations,
the mayor's office, the ACLU, th e
FCC, your local ministerial association,
the gay press, the good folks at
P-FLAG, and BCS4l@aol.com or
GLAAD. Mobilize a network 'of concern!
Do something, apything. Justice
is at stake .
We cannot be silent while'poisonous
clouds of untruth spew forth. It's our
·stream, too. Let's work to see that the
water turns crystal-clear again.
Noah revisited
By Rev. Roger Wharton
Guest Comment
THE BIBLI€AL STORY of Noah
speaks to our human responsibility to
be careful stewards of God's Creation.
"God said to Noah, 'I have decided
that the end has come for all living
things, for the earth is full of lawles~;,
ness because of human bemgs.
(Gen. 6:13 NJB) Notice that God's
decision rests on God's evaluation of
WHA.,-oo voo
MEAIII. vou•~i:
L~C."n,SE' 7
IN"\Oi..ERAN.,- ·
human behavior and how it has
affected all of creation. Noah then
learns that he has found favor with
God and is to build an ark so that he
will be saved from the floods to come.
Noah, however, is to learn more ....
No matter how righteous Noah feels
in his se lection by God, he soon discovers
that he is to take his family
SEE COMMENTARY, Page 24
classif. cate with (not to), someone unprejudiced and
concerned about justice, especially as related
to prisons . Please write Kenneth Johnson
#5 15059, F-3, Route 2, Box 4400, Gatesville,
TX 76597. TF .
BOOKS/PUBLICATIONS
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COMMENTARY,
FromPage23
with hiin on the ark. In this, Noah
and humankind should see that th ere
is no salvation or wholeness without
community . Ne xt, Noah is instructed
to load pairs of all the living animals
on board. The lesson here is that
there is no salvation without ecological
w holeness.
When the floods are over and the
earth is ready for habitation again,
God establishes a covenant, not just
with human beings but with all of
creation . God goes on to say
that the rainbow is set in the sky as a
reminder of that covenant between
God and every living creatur e on
earth.
It seems that human beings have
forgott en the lesso ns of Noah. Many
think that they · are complet_e unto
themse:'les and nee d to remember
that salvation and wholeness is found
within our relationship to others in
the global human community. The
human community, however, is not
the total picture. Real wholeness can
only be experienced within an ecolog~
ical wholeness.
As members of the lesbian/ gay
community we have chosen the rainbow
as our symbol of recognition
much as the early Christians u sed the
"fish" symbol. In choosing the rainbow
we recognize the dignity of
every human being and ex pr ess
willin gness to be open, inclusive and
to re spec t diversity. Let us also take
that one step furthe r and re-connect
with the natural world working and
pra ying to pres erve the diversity of
plant s and animals.
As Christians and as global citizens,
let us work for world understanding
and peace between individuals and
nation s. As God's steward s of crea
tion, let us each b ecome a person
who cares deepl y for the eart h and
God' s creatures and works for
ecological wholeness.
Rev. Roger Wharton works to connect
Christians with their Biblical and Christian
Nature Wisdom Tradition through a
newsletter, retreats, and special activities.
For information about Wilderness Manna's
Christians in Communion wit/1
Creation organization you can contact
him at 1404 Arnold Ave., San Jose, CA
95110. 408-451-9310,
( eun roger@aol.com).
cations, P.O. Box 58336, Louisville, KY
40268,0336. Renewals encouraged. Ques tion
s: 502-935 -7190 . . 6 /96
PA SSION, Christian Spirituality From A Gay
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PAGE 24 • SECOND STONE MAY/JUNE, 1996
case tte. Incred ible selection . s ince 1930' s;
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ORGANIZATIONS
INDEP ENDENT CATHOLIC religiou s order.
Men/women, lay/cle rical, gay/ non-gay .
Optional ce libacy, non-residential, ec umenica
l. Ordination possible . Fa ther Abbot ,
O rder of St. John the Divine, 166 Jay St.,
Albany, NY 122IO.
CHRISTIANS IN COMMUNION with Creation.
An Organ ization for "Green C hristians."
Me mbership with monthly mailings,
$35. Roger Wharton, 1404 Arnold Ave., San
Jose, CA 95110. 408-451-9310.
BECOME A PRIEST. - Gay, Lesbi an and
Bisexu~I persons, serve God and Community
as a Priest External program leads to valid
ordination. A n incardination process is
available for those already in Orders. Those
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without interest in ordination may
also ·reply. EACA - Vocations, 2401 Artes ia
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90278.
CONFERENCE FOR CATHOLIC Lesb ians
(CCL) is a national organization for lesbians
of Catholic heritage . Qua rterly newsletter.
Supportive network. Advocates for lesbian
issues in political and Chu rch forums. For
member s hip information please co ntact
CCL-SS, P.O. Box 436 , Planetarium Station,
New York, NY 10024, (212) 663-2963, FAX
(212)268 -7032.
THE CENTER FOR PASTORAL CARE, 3180
German Church Road, Mansfield, OH 44904,
(419)756-2977. A unique place of Christian
worship. Sunday Liturgy 10:15. Followed by.
a lite brunch. Retreats, workshops and pastoral
co unse ling . Rev. Daniel Dickman,
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for diocesa n an.d parish ministries, newsletter,
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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
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Vote in favor of gays increases by 15 percent since last meeting
Gay ~gain ground at United
Methodist General Conference
- From Associated Press,
United Methodist News Service,
Ecumenical News International,
and other reports
· THE NUMBER OF delegates to the
United Methodist Church's General
Conference who believe that language
in the denomination's Book of
Discipline that describes homosexuality
as "incompatible with Christian
teaching" should be overtumed
has increased by 15 percent in four
years, indicating that gay and lesbian
act ivists have gained substan°
tial ground since the church's 1992
General Confenince.
In denominations where church
activists are struggling for ordination
of non-celibate gays and lesbians, the
trend places the United Methodist
Church behind the Episcopal Church
and ahead of the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America and the ·
Presbyterian Church (USA) as the
next likely church to approve ordination
of non-celibate gays and lesbians.
The United Church of Christ is the
only major Protestant denomination to
permit the ordination of non-celibate
gays.
Issues surrounding the place of gays
and lesbians in the church dominated
last month's church-wide meeting of
the 8.6 million-member United Methodist
Church, the second largest Protestant-
church in the United States -
exceeded in membership only by the
Southern Baptist Convention . The 10-
day international conventio n drew
1,000 del egates, some from as far
away as Europe and Africa. Half of
those attending the meeting were lay
people and the rest were clergy. More
than 3,000 proposals were submitted
Protesters outnumber participants
20-1 at anti-gay lecture
MADISON, Wis. (AP) ~ Protesters
who organized a "March for Tolerance"
outnumbered by more than 20-1
those who came to a Madison church
to hear the message of a man who
contends gays inspired the Nazi
.movement.
Police said fewer than 20 people
showed up at Trinity Evangelical
Fellowship Church April 12 to hear
Scott Lively, author , of "The Pink
Swastika: Homosexuality in the
Nazi Party."
Police allowed about 100 protesters
in the church, while an estimated 300
P.O.Box 8340
New Orleans, LA 70182
ADDRESS CORRECTION
REQUESTED
TIME DATED MATERIAL
DONOTDELAY
remained outside . Ralph Ovadal,
whose Wisconsin Christians United
sponsored the lecture, asked police to
remove one man who held up a sign
and shouted inside the church .
The church's pastor, Ron Greer, is a
Madison firefighter accused of distributing
anti -g ay pamphlets on the
job. Greer faces possible disciplinary
action in that case.
Capt. Luis Yudice of the Madison
police said Ovadal requested tight
security for the lecture after receiving
death threats.
BU..K RATE
U.S.POSTAGE
PAID
NEW ORLEANS, LA
PERMIT No. 511
--- - -~ --~ ~ - = =-~=~- ~ - - - ---· -
for consideration.
Current teaching condemning homosexuality
was approved in the
church 's Social Principles in 1972.
Delegates to the quadrennial Methodist
General Conference have
upheld the language ever since.
This year, supporters of gay rights
were more hopeful for change after 15
bishops announced their personal
opposition to church policy. But that
hope faded on April 24 when delegates
voted 577 to 378 to uphold
NO HERESY TRIAL!
church policy, which bars "selfavowed
practicing" homosexuals
from ordination or jobs in churches.
The vote, however, revealed a sizable
shift in denominational sentiment
since the 1992 General Conference,
when the vote for keeping the
SEE METIIODISTS, Page 9
Churchcomt~
charges agahN Righter
By James Thrall
Episcopal News Service
WILMINGTON, Del. - An Episcopal
Church court dismissed heresy
charges May 15 against retired
Bishop Walter C. Righter . The
Court held that neither the doctrine
nor the discipline . of the Church currently
prohibit the ordination of a
non-celibate gay person living in a
committed relationship.
In early 1995 Righter was charged
by ten bishops under Church canons
for "teaching publicly and advisedly
that a practicing homosexual may
properly be ordained" in the Episcopal
Church and for violating his
ordination vows for ordaining Barry
L. Stopfel, a candidate from the
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See a e 14.
Diocese of Newark, who was living
and continues to live in what is
described as a committed relationship
with another man.
Seven of the judges agreed that the
ordination did not violate the
Church's doctrine or discipline.
The majority opinion stated that
'The Court is not giving an opinion on
the morality of same gender relationships
. We are not deciding whether
life-long, committed, sexual same
gender relationships are or are not a
wholesome example with respect to
ordination vows. We are not rendering
an opinion on whether a bishop
and diocese should or should not
ordain persons living in same sex
relationships. Rather , we are deciding
the narrow issue of whether or not
u nder Title IV [the Church's disciplinary
canons] a bishop is restrained
from ordaining persons living in · a
committed same gender sexual relationship."
SEE RIGHTER,Page 3
SUBSCRIBE TODAY! See Pa e 22.
.Welcome!
_/ IF YOU FOUND this copy of Second Stone at a gay
pride event, a P-FLAG meeting, or some other event
or location, there's a Second Stone Outreach Partner
in your area. Their brochure is enclosed. They are a
Christian church or organization with a specific outreach
to gays and lesbians. We encourage you to visit
them for their next service or meeting. In the meantime,
you may be asking some questions like the
ones that follow.
When I told my church pastor I
was gay, I was referred to an exgay
program. What's thaf all
abc;mt?
Recent scientific research is indicating that sexual orientation
is innate and cannot ·be changed. Ex-gay programs
are effective in redirecting a heterosexual person
who has experimented with homosexual activity
back to heterosexual relationships. For a gay or lesbian
person, however , an ex-gay ministry can orily
teach one how to "act as if' heterosexual, often with
painful results . Au ex-gay program cannot change
your sexual orientation. Remember that most ex-gay
church counselors are heterosexual and cannot speak
from the experience of being gay. Also, any psychologist
or psychiatrist who offers "treatment" for homosexuality
is not following guidelines established by
the American Psychological Association or the Amer- -
ican Medical Association.
After all the rejection I got from
my church, why should I even care
about God?
Your church may have rejected you, but God never
has. God's nature is to draw you closer to Him, not
to reject you. The church is administered by pastors,
bishops, lay people, committees; people like you and
me - sometimes connected with God at work among
us, and sometimes not Sometimes the people who
run the church, because off ear, selfishness or other
reasons, are not able to.follow as God leads. In the
past, the church failed to speak out against the Holocaust
and slavery. At some point in the future, the
church's present failure _to affirm gay and lesbian people
and its failure to speak out against the homophobia
that leads to discrimination and violence will be
seen as a terrible wrong. As Episcopal Bishop Barbara
Harris once said, the church is a follower of society,
not a leader.
Does this mean I shouldn't go to
church? ·
Absolutely not! (It means the church needs you probably
more ·than you need the church .) There is a place
for you in a church in your neighborhood. There are
rnany Christian churches and organizations around the
country that have a specific ministry to gay and lesbian
people . Even in the mainstream denominations
gay and lesbian people have prominent, although
sometimes closeted, places in the church as pastors,
youth leaders, choir masters, lay leaders, and so on.
Many mainstream churches across the country have
moved into positions of welcoming and affirming gay
and lesbian people.
How do I know that God doesn't
reject me?
Even if you've never set foot in a church or thought
much about God, you were created by a loving God
PAGE 2 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
'' ALL I HEARD FOR THE FIRST
18 YEARS OF MY LIFE WAS
HOW MUCH GOD LOVED ME_
WHEN I TOLD MY COLLEGE
FRIENDS I WAS GAY THEY
TOLD ME GOD HATED
HOMOSEXUALS I THINK GOD
KNEW WHO I WAS ALL
ALONG AND HIS LOVE FOR
ME HADN'T CHANGED . MY
FRIENDS WERE WRONG
·who seeks you out If there's a barrier betw~n yourself
and God, it is not God's responsibility . Blackaby
and King in Experiencing God say there are seven
realities of a relationship with God: L God is always
at work around you. 2. God pursues a continuing love
relationship with you that is real and personal. 3. God
invites you to become involved with Him in His
work. 4. God speaks by the Holy Spirit through the
Bible, prayer, circumstances, and the church to reveal
Himself, His purposes, and His ways. 5:God's invitation
for you to work with Him always leads you to
a crisis of belief that requires faith and action. 6. You
must make major adjustments in your life to join
God in what He is doing. 7. You come to know God
·by experience as you obey Him and He accomplishes
His work through you.
If you've never really believed in God, and
want to know more, ask a friend or pastor
to talk to you. He or she may -be able to
recommend -a reading resource, a video, a
Bible study group or a church. And don't
be afraid or embarrassed to ask. Such a
friend or pastor will be -glad you asked. It
is bow God works among us. If you've
never -read the Bible before, start with
~omans 3:23; 6:23; S:8; 10:9-10; and
io: 1J.
But can I really be gay and Christian?
Sexual orientation - ei titer gay or straight - is a good,
God-given part of your being. A homosexual orientation
is not a sinful state. The Bible condemns some
heterosexual activity and some homosexual activity;
when someone gets used or hurt rather than loved.
The Bible supports commitment and fidelity in loving
relationships.
-Doesn't the Bible say homosexual
activity is a sin?
Daniel Helminiak in Wha t the Bible Really Says
About Homosexuality says: The sin of Sodom was
[not homosexuality.] Jude condemns sex with angels,
not sex between men. Not a single Bib le text clearly
refers to lesbian sex ... Orily five texts surely refer to
male-male sex, Leviticus 18:22 and 20: 13, Romans
1:27 and I Corinthians 6:9 and I Timothy I: 10. All
these texts are concerned with ·something other than
homosexual activity itselL If people would still
seek to know outright if gay or lesbian sex in itself is
good or eviL they will have to look elsewhere for an
answer... The Bible never addresses tha t question :
More than that, the Bible seems deliberately unconcerned
about it
- I would like explore further. What
can I do now?
While there are many good books and videos available,
there's something powerful in being "where two
or more are gathered." You may want to check out a
ministry in your area with a specific outreach to gays
and lesbians, including Second Stone's Outreach
Partner. The worship style may not be what you're
used to, but the point is to connect with gay and lesbian
Christians with whom you can have discussions
about where you are. Or you may want to try a variety
of churches in your neighborhood, even those of
other denominations. (Ibere is no "one true church.") .
There are gay and lesbian people iu almost every
church and God, who is always at work around you,
will connect you to the people you need to know - if
you take the first step.
Wouldn't it just be easier to keep
my sexual life a secret?
Some gay and lesbian people who are happy, whole
and fully integrated may have to be silent about their
sexuality because of their job or other circumstances.
(Ibe day will come when that is no longer the case.)
Bnt a gay or lesbian person who cannot integrate their
sexuality with the rest of their being faces a difficult
struggle indeed. To deny one's sexuality to oneself
while in church or at work or with straight friends,
and then to engage in periodic sexual activity is not a
self-loving, esteem-building experience . Au inability
to weave your sexuality into tl1e fabric of your life in
a way that makes you feel good about yourself and
allows you to develop rela tionships with others is a
cause for concern and should be discussed with
someone skilled in gay and lesbian issues.
the other
Front Page
cover items continued & late stories
~ bishop ~clerfire
from lntegiity chapter
THE DALLAS CHAPTER of Integrity,
Inc. has accused Bishop James
Stanton of the Episcopal Diocese of
Dallas with "worsen"ing the climate
of fear and self-repression of samesex
attraction" by spearheading the
movement to bring charges against
Bishop Walter Righter and by his
silence surrounding the arrest of a
priest in Stanton's diocese on sex
charges.
On January 19, 1996, the Rev. Rex
Perry, Rector of the Episcopal
Churd, of the Incarnat ion in Dallas,
pied no contest to charges of public
lewdness stemming from an arrest in
which police allege Perry made
improper sexual contact with an
undercover officer in a p ublic men's
room. He has been inhibited from his
functions as a pries t by Bishop Stanton
and has ·resigned from the Church
of the Incarnation.
Perry was known to have made
statements both publicly and privately
· condemning sex between persons
of the same gender,
No public announcements regarding
RIGHTER,
From Pagel
The Court also stated , "We remind
the Church that this issue will not be
reso lved and the Church unified in
its faith and practice by presentments
and trials, nor by unilateral
acts of bishops and their dioceses, or
through the adoption of proclamations
by groups of bishops or others
expressing positions on the issues."
The Court ruled that the Canon on
doctrine protects only the Church's
Core Doctrine . It also ruled that
other Church teachings and resolutions
of the Church's legislative
body, the General Convention, may,
at times, be enforceab le under the
Canons but concluded that the teaching
against the ordination of non celibate
homosexual persons was not
presently enforceable under the Constitution
and Canons of the Church.
In a concluding section on pastoral
concerns, the majority offered several
suggestions about how the General
Convention, which next meets in
1997, might offer greater clarity to
order the Church's life on this issue,
stating that it could pass a Canon
the facts that led to Perry's suspension
and resignation have been made
by anyone connected with the churdl,
including Bishop Stanton or the
Church of the Incarnation.
Leaders of St. Aelred's Chapter of
Integrity charged that the actions of
Stanton in calling for a heresy trial
of Bishop Righter and th~ actions of
Perry prior to his arrest "perpetuate
and deepen a climate of hostility and
fear toward persons of same-sex orientation."
In a prepared statement the organization
went on to say that such a
"hostile climate drives out of the
church persons of same-sex orientation
who attempt to lead lives of
openness and accountability in
response to the gospel, and sends a
clear message to those who seek ordination
to hide and repress any hint of
same-sex attraction, This climate of
fear and repression will continue to
lead to the type of severe spiritual
self-alienation and irresponsible sex-·
ual activity that led to Perry's
arrest."
stating explicitly either that ordination
of non-celibate homosexuals persons
is or is not permitted. It also
stated that a trial is a poor way to
clarify doctrine or to secure good
order in the Church.
A pre-trial hearing was held in
Hartford, Connecticut on December 8
of last year. The Presenters, represented
by A. Hugo Blankingship, and
Michael F. Rehill, Chancellor of the
Diocese of Newark representing
Bishop Righter, agreed that the
basic issue in the case was the doctrine
of the Episcopal Church, At a
widely attended public hearing on
February 27th, the Court heard arguments
on the doctrine of the Church,
The Court thereafter concluded that
the Presentment also raised the question
of whether the Church's discipline
had been violated and
requested briefs from the parties on
that issue.
The Presenters can appeal the question
of the Church's doctrine on the
ordination of non - celibate homosexual
persons living in committed relai°
ionships to a Court of Review consisting
of nine Bishops.
;- ·5 '
City denies site for MCC
GREENVILLE, S.C. (AP) - Members
of a Metropolitan Community Church
have been tol d by a city board they
cannot move the church to a historic
residential neighborhood. The
church has hired a lawyer and is
looking to the courts to overturn the
city's decision.
"In the old days, everybody would
stand up and say they're not going to
do this because homosexuals are moving
in, but now things are more subtle
and they're trying to find a pretext to
. stop them . The true motivation is
they don't want a church with homo sexual
members," said the church's
lawyer, Suzanne Coe.
Members of the city's Board of Zoning
Adjustments said they rejected
the church's request not because of the
parishioners' sexual orientation but
because it would bring too much traffic
to the area.
The churdl bought an old school in
December and began clearing away
four years of decay in hopes of starting
worship services in March.
Members liked the site because it is
close to downtown and was adver tised
as ideal for a school or church . .
They didn't expect problems because
two other churches are on the same
block and the building was used by a
small Greek Orth'?dox congregation
after the sdlool closed.
Contractors found they needed the
city's permission for renovations
because the area is planned for family
housing, and that's when the Rev.
J. Allen Smith of nearby Central Baptist
Church spoke up in opposition.
"It's a homosexual church group,"
he said. "We don't hate homosexuals
and would like to see them get their
lives straightened out, but the Bible
in many, many places condemns that
as a sin . We'd hate to see it in our
community because it would encourage
that sort of thing."
Metropolitan Community pastor
Mick Hinson said about 80 percent of
his 114-member congregation is gay.
"We are a Christian church," Hinson
said. "We are not the gay church
that people perceive us to be, but a
church that opens its doors to everybody.
What is happening · d'6esn't
make sense, and we're confused."
The city zoning staff said renovating
the deteriorating building would
improve the historic neighborhood,
but zoning board Chairman Brian
Todd said board members were concerned
that traffic and parking would
destroy the area's character.
"If it were any other church, we
would have made the decision based
on the same conditions," Todd said.
"The composition of the church and
the beliefs of the church had nothing
to do with the board's decision."
City Councilwoman Elizabeth
Gower said she believes the church's
membership played a role in the
,rejection. Greenville is a center of the
conservative religious movement in
South Carolina.
"I've lived in Greenville long
enough to know that it is very likely
possible that it did," she said: "It
raises a lot of questions about the
legitimacy of our process."
Gay day at Ohio park
irks conservatives
By Bob Batz
The Dayton Daily l~ews
IF DON JACKSON has his way, June
2 won't be just another day in the
park at Paramount's Kings Island.
That Sunday is the date set for the
regular get-together at the Warren
County (Ohio) amusement park for
the Greater Cincinnati Gay and Lesbian
Coalition. Members of the coalition
traditionally wear red T-shirts
that day.
But Jackson, president of the Dayton-
based Christian Family Net work,
said he was so upset by last
year's event that this year he wants
to confront the thousands of gay men
and lesbians with a like number of
white-shirted church-goers.
"Our goal is to inundate the park
with 4,000 Christians who would
bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to people
we know are hurting," Jackson
said, adding that it would be a
peaceful confrontation.
Spokesmen for the coalition
declined to comment, but tire Rev.
Samuel Kader, pastor of Day.toi'l's
Comm1,mity Gospel Church, which
has some gay and lesbian members,
calls Jackson 's plan "ludicrous.''
"What makes it so upsetting is
that he is assuming gays aren't
Christians, which, of course, is absolutely
untrue," Kader said.
"Some gay Christians I know say
they'll wear red-and-white striped
shirts . to the park that day."
the NEWS continues
onPage8
PAGE 3 • SECOND STONE • MAY/J UNE, 1996
. EM WSK2!f 4 ·t:U ·71
• Prayer ,The Bible • Words & Deeds
Sound familiai:?
'Little person' has tall struggle
toward oroained ministry
WESTMINSTER, Md. (AP) - The
Rev. Stella Dempski faced an unusual
problem when she was looking for a
congregation that would accept her as
their minister - her size.
At age 28, Ms. Dempski is just 4 feet
1 inch tall and has been made a Presbyterian
minister. She is the first
female dwarf to be ordained in any
denomination, according to the
National Board of Little People.
''The process tested my patience but
not my faith," she said. "I knew I
would find a church. God had called
me to pursue ordained ministry. The
ministry is my life choice - not a job,
but a way of life."
Armed with a two master's degrees -
one in divinity studies, the other in
Christian education - Ms. Dempski
began her search for a job. She sent
her resume to more than 60 congrega- ·
lions, but none of the jobs seemed to
pan ·OUt.
In November, her patience paid off
when she was installed as Westminster's
First United Presbyterian
Church's first full-time assistant
pastor of education and discipleship.
The congregation of 455
"immediately accepted me for who I
was as a person," Ms. Dempski said.
''They were open to adjusting to my
UNCOMMON
CALLING:A
Gay Christian's
Struggle to
Serve the
Church
BY CHRIS GLASER
Expanded and with a new
introduction, conclusion , and
phot.ographs . In this book, Chris
Glaser describes his personal
journey of coming out to his family,
friends, church - and t.o himself
short stature."
Ms. Dempski was born with achondroplasia,
a genetic disorder that
stunts growth and causes dwarfism.
Members of the 35-year-old congregation
immediately built a platform
for her to stand on behind the communion
table and another for the pulpit.
"Ste lla is a unique, gifted person
wno is supposed to be here with us,"
said the Rev. Steven R. Fleming, pastor
at the church.
"People were really impressed with
. my dossier but when I got to the interview,
there were not many questions,"
she said. "I can tell when size is the
issue and people are not ready."
"I believe everyone is a child of
God, even though we have different
opinions and different understandings
of how we live our lives," said Ms.
Dempski. "Size is just a piece of who I
am."
On her first visit to the 174 children
in the Sunday school program, her
dimensions drew questions from the
youngest children.
"I told them they were going to
grow, but I am going to stay like
this," she said. "God m akes different
people in differ ent ways. God chose
to make me short."
Uncommon Calling. $19.99, paperback
Order from Second Stone Press, Page 22.
PAGE 4 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Gay teens find comfort in numrern
By Kathy Matter
The Lafayette Journal and Courier
LAFAYETTE, Ind. - For teens struggling
with their sexuality, putting
together the words ''I'm gay" may be
the first step to finding ways to cope.
When confused and isolated gay
teens don't know what to say, Indianapolis
Youth Group (IYG) - one of the
three largest gay-serving youth
organizations in the United States -
is there to listen.
IYG has six branch chapters, including
Lafayette, and is one of 10 projects
to receive federal funding from the
Ryan White Act.
At IYG meetings teens who have
been afraid to talk about their sexuality
find an atmosphere of caring
people and no pressure, says Michele
O'Mara, an Indianapolis social
worker with IYG.
In confidential locations free of
society's stares and judgments, they
can socialize, discuss problems and
get health information or counseling.
Still "the nerve it takes to get gay
teens here (the first time) is incredible,"
O'Mara says.
"We don't put them in a position to
define themselves. We don't ask if
they're gay. Putting those two words
- I'm . gay - together is th e hardest
thing a person who's not heterosexual
can do."
Frank, a Jefferson High School
junior, says he understands. He says
he is afraid to reveal to friends - let
alone a newspaper - that he is gay.
'T m normal. I just want to have a
normal word for it," he says. "If I
could just tell (people I'm gay) I
would probably feel better and have
better friends. I would just feel ll<?rmal.
I know I'm normal but people
don't think so."
That's the idea behind IYG: help
gay teens who hide their identity
understand ..their feelings and get
self-confidence. Then gay teens might
be mor e comfortable sharing with
family and friends.
Talking through gay teens' feelings
is essential, O'Mara says.
"It's absolutely critical that a young
person be able to tell," she says. "We
all need to feel we have a voice and
that that voice matters. To keep
quiet about something as significant
as the nature of our heart and who we
care about is a very s tifling way to
live."
Rob Mate co-sponsors Lafayette's
newly formed IYG with Sandie
Brown. Mate says he wishes something
like IYG was around when he
was young.
As a teenager in the 1960s, when
homosexuality was classified as a
mental disorder, Mate was filled
with confusion. High school "was a
very painful experience. I would not
want to wish this pain on others," he
says. "I worked for years to be OK
with myself."
Brown, who's 22 and working on a
pre-law degree, struggled as a lesbian
teen .
"As a youth growing up, 1 went •
through hell. I had no idea I could be
who I was," says Brown.
Looking for a niche in junior high,
she turned to the outcast crowd.
''They all did drugs," Brown says. "I
· did a lot of drugs. I sold a lot of bad
drugs. I had my life threatened."
She conquered her drug habit and
dealt with her sexua lity, but not all
her lesbian friends could. When one
committed suicide, Br own got
involved with IYG so she could help
others.
Looking at their own experiences,
Brown and Mate agree that kids
growing up gay today will have an
easier time in society than the generations
preceding them.
"With IYG, I have a lot of hope for
this generation I'm working with,"
O'Mara says.
Pastor, I Anl Gay
By The Rev. H. Howard Bess
Order from
Second Stone Press.
See page 22.
Al though more and more parishioners are
comfortable with coming out at church, many
pastors still aren't equipped to hear the words,
"I am gay." This remarkable book chronicles a
Baptist pastor's first fumbling encounter with
those words to his deep and compassionate
understanding of what is means to be a gay
Christian.
An extraordinary book... a prophetic
witness to the church ...
-James B. Ashbrook,
Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary
Faith in Daily Life
ChUICh leaders-explore limits of dissent
the faithful. By David Briggs
Associated Press Religion Writer
EPISCOPAL CHURCH officials are
considering trying a retired bishop for
heresy because he ordained a noncelibate
gay man. Bishop Walter
Righter is only the second bishop in
the 206-year history of the church to
be charged with heresy.
In his own case, Righter said the
charges against him were politically
motivateq.
In Nebraska, a Roman Catholic
bishop has warned the 85,000 members
of his flock to sever ties with 12
groups - from Planned Parenthood to
several Masonic organizations - or
face excommunication, the severest
church penalty.
"The Episcop~I Church says the
Bible exists for the church to interpret,"
Righter has said. "That's the
crux of this whole thing. Are we going
to be a church which buys into the
funny farm of saying, 'Every word in
the Bible is true?' We never have.
In highly publicized cases in the
fall of 1993, five high-profile
scholars and feminists were excommunicated
from the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints.
■ "The circle of faith
cannot identify its
center without
recognizing its
margins ... "
■
In an age when it sometimes seems
that anything goes in the secular
world, some church leaders are going
to extraordinary means to impose
limits on dissent.
"We 're a church that takes
serio1.1sly what's in the Bible, and we
try to interpret it for each generation."
The striking actions have prompted
considerable debate over whether
such strong ecclesiastical sanctions
are needed to protect the faith, or
whether they represent a conservative
attempt to impose their will on
But the bishops who brought the
charge against Righter said it is precisely
about the authority of Scripture
in the church.
Bishop James Stanton of Dallas is
worried that the church is allowing
itself to be reshaped by culture rather
The
Word
The Bible
Reclaimed for
Lesbians and Is Out
WE WERE
BAPTIZED
TOO ... ··
\l,11t11I! IOl \j I :,,] "' j\ · h
365 Daily Meditations For
Lesbians and Gay Men
Aut ho r Chris G las er fearlessly liberate s the Bible
from those who would hold it hostage to an antigay
agenda. In this inspiring collectio n or 365
daily meditations. the Bible's good news "comes
out" to meet all or us with love, justice. meaning,
and hope.
Chris Glaser is the author or Uncommon
Calling and Coming Out to God. He is a graduate
or Yale Divinity School.
The Word Is Out,
$12, paperback
ORDER FROM
SECOND STONE PRESS.
SEEPAGE 22.
WE WERE
BAPTIZED
,.....-yy-\ Claiming God's Grace
.l \..AJ for Lesbians and Gays
By Marilyn Bennett Alexander
and James Preston with a forward by
Desmond M. Tutu
This book chal lenges the church to take
seriously its understanding of baptism and
communio n as a means of grace, justice and
liberation for everyone ... including its gay and
lesbian members.
$16.99 from Second Stone Press.
To order, see page 22.
than the other way around.
".What we see is a steady movement
in the direction of radical relativism,
which says there isn't any truth, and
radical autonomy, which says every
human defines him or herself. Both
of these positions are a move away
from the Christian faith itself,"
Stanton has said.
Bishop Fabian Bruskewitz, the
leader of the Catholic diocese of Lincoln,
Neb., said his excommunication
threat is "less a punishment than it is
a sanction urging people to reevaluate
their faith with God."
"We need to make clear that the
matter is serious," Bruskewitz said.
"It places the very gift of one's
Catholic faith in danger."
However, no other Catholic bishop
has followed his lead, and some
observers have said publicly that the
threat of mass excommunications is an
embarrassmen t to the church.
In the latest issue of Commonweal, a
professor of church law also ~aid the
threat is so outrageous it is an idle
one as well.
"A law so contrary to the spirit and
letter of canon law, so sweepingly
'broad and aimless, so unsupported by
evidence of necessity, so intemperate
and harsh, and so contemptuous of the
precious value of ecclesial commun ion;
is invalid on its face," wrote
James A. Coriden of the Washington
Theological Union.
Stuart Wright, a sociologist at
Lamar University in Beaumont,
Texas, saidjn both religion and politics,
"Liberalism has bec.ome the new
evil in society."
He traces the movement back io the
early 1980s, saying the recent crackdowns
follow the long conservative
takeover in the Southern Baptist
Convention. ~
"There's definitely a perception of
threat, even to the point of becoming
quite aggressive in their attack on
liberals," Wright said.
But in an editorial in a recent issue
of Christianity Today titled "Why
We Believe in Heresy," theologian
Thomas C. Oden said the rediscovery
of boundaries will be the preoccupation
of 21st-century theology.
''The circle of faith cannot identify
its center without recognizing its
margins," write ·s Oden, a theology
professor at Drew University in Madison,
N.J. ''The debate about whether
heresy can be defined is a struggle to
specify margins, the legitimate boundaries
of the worshiping community ."
THE EROTIC
CONTEMPLATIVE
Reflections on the Spiritual Journey of the Gay/Lesbian Christian
by Michael B. Kelly
"The Erotic Contemplative is the most powerful and insightful study of gay spirituality
that I know of. I have watched The Road from Emmaus (tape 6) three times and still find
new riches." - JOHN J. McNEJLL, PH.D., author of The Church and the Homosexual
"In my theology classes, both gay and straight seminarians benefit from Kelly's integration of sexuality with
Christian mysticism." - ROBERT Goss, PH.D., author of ]ef.us Acted-Up
"An excellent resource ... a worthwhile investment."
-BONDINGS, a publication of New Ways Ministry.
"The Erotic Contemplative video course has helted Gay men and Lesbians who grew up as Christians move
toward healing rhe wounds of the past."
- jOSErH KRAMER, M.DIV., EroSpirir Research Institute
A SIX-VOLUME STIMULUS FOR LMNG, LOVING AND PRAYER:
1) The Truth of Our Experience (7S min); 2) Revisioning Sexuality (80 min); 3) Exodus and Awakening (75 min);
4) The Desert and the Dark {88 min); 5) Liberation (84 min); 6) The Road from Emmaus (63.min).
Six videos and study guide: $ J 99 (CA residents add 8.25% tax) VlSA/MC/AMEX 'o00-581-3303
or check to EroSpirit Research Institute, PO Box 3893, Oakland, CA 94609
PAGE 5 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Faith in Daily Life
WEEKLY
DEVOTIONAL
BY
REV. DONNA E. SCHAPER
WEEK1
When we call
on God, we
hear the
great sound
of justice ...
Yet you did not call upon me, 0 Jacob;
but you have been weary of me, 0
Israel! ·
-Isaiah 43:22
... we are not
driving so hard
for later and more
and better. We
stop the .hustle.
Of making many books there is no
end, and much study is a weariness ·of
the flesh.
-Ecclesiastes 12:12.
WE ARE TIRED OF a nearly unceas- WE WANT MORE books or more earing
need to explain ourselves to peo- rings or a bigger house. Want, for
pie whose attention should focus many of us, has no end and it has
somewhere else than on our sexual become a weariness of the flesh.
orientations. My friend just found out The weariness we feel is a friend.
that one member of her church is Fatigue is a friendly warning . Like
"uncomfortable" with her now that the early signals for serious disease,
she has come out. fatigue can be a friend if noticed. It is
Being tired is a result of injustice. It an enemy if not.
is also the result of packing too much We befriend fatigue by stopping to
into too small a unit of time. There deny its existence. We look it square
are both internal and external reasons in the eye and accept its permission to
for injustice. do less in our days. Metaphorically,
Action at the economic level is cru- we write fewer books .
cial if we are to avoid Israel and Less becomes more in the spiritual
Jacob's problem . When we call on strategy of befriending fatigue. We
God, we hear the great sound of jus- see deeply enough into now, and we
tice, the sure promise that we are to experience now deeply enough, that
live unwearied lives. God is not lying we are not driving so hard for later
about justice! and more and better. We stop the
We do less. We unclutter our lives. hustle. We get off the merry go
We wait on the Lord. ': ·,,.:round.
Let us Pray: Hear our Call, 0 God. Let us Pray: Stop us, 0 God. Let
Wearenotwearyofyourpromisesnor weariness warn. In Jesus' Name,
ofYou. Amen. Amen.
PAGE 6 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Steal
time back.
Remove some
of the obstacles
m our way.
In vain, I have wearied myself, its
thick rust does not depart . To the fire
with-its rust!
- Ezekiel 24:12
IN A VISION, THE prophet sees the
fruitlessness and pointlessness of the
way he is wasting his life. He vows
to burn the rust off and to steal his
life back from ruin.
There is a new group of social scientists
who call themselves "Failure
analysts." They argue that things
fail from the interaction of difficulty,
not just one thing. We rust not from
a simple mistake but from a collection
of them.
How to get over waste and ruin and
its weariness? Use the prophet's
strategy . Steal time back. Remove
some of the obstacles in our way.
One step at a time, one difficulty at
a time, even it we have to take years
to restore ourself, will work. We will
u.nweary ourselves.
.Let us Pray : Remove the rust from
our sheen, 0 God. Restore us to vigor
and self-control. Let weariness leave
our steps and let us walk beyond our
failure. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
[We are]
Bored to death
while being
bombarded with
stimulation.
Consider him who endured such hostility
against himself from sinners, so
that you may not grow weary or lose
heart.
- Hebrews 12:3
THE MOST SERIOUS charge that
can be brought against New England
is not Puritanism but rather February,
according to Joseph Wood i<rutch.
Those who know severe New England
winters know exactly what he means.
Not that we needed February to
remind us of wilderness. We know.
We are a people living so deeply in a
wilderness time that we don't need
reminders to keep our shovels ready.
Chipping ice is something most of us
get to do year round .
If you ask almost any member of a
modern congregation what their real
spiritual condition is, they respond
pelleted. Exhausted. The ancient
monks called it acedia. Bored to
death while being bombarded with
stimulation. Pelleted exhaustion,
bored but bombarded. Like snow
storms that don't stop corning, one
right after the other, covering over
last week's ice with this week's
sleet .
Modern acedia is the result of violating
the Sabbath. From living in a
culture that we have put on permanent
fast forward. From never resting.
From never taking cover. From never
giving IT a break.
Can we remember Jesus deep in winter?
Can we remember what he
endured? If we can, we can find a way
to hang on to our heart.
Let us Pray: Sometimes we feel like
we have lost everything, 0 God.
Even our way. Save us. Help us to
hang on to our heart -- and to find o,ur
heart in your heart. Amen.
™
The monotony
ofthe
... monoculture
is the name of
our wilderness
Even youths will faint and be weary,
and the young will fall exhausted but
those who wait on the Lord shall
renew their strength ....
-Isaiah 40:30,31
WAITING IS A WAY through weariness.
We wait on the return of the
Lord. We stop going in circles -- and
start going towards God, no matter
how long the journey.
Many walks in the wilderness seem
to lead nowhere, only to new and
more lethal versions of Egypt. There
is tremendous monotony in obeying our
cultural and economic instructions.
We live in a one dimensional world
too often, a single place, simultaneously
enormous and cramped. Not a
roomy place. But a single place.
The monotony of the monoculture is
the name of our wilderness. But we
can live in more than one world! We
can live here and in God's world at
the same time. We can place our feet
towards glory.
I may be in the wilderness but I am
also awaiting the land. I may live
here beside you and send my children
to those places you call schools but I
am on my way to a better land. I am
on my way. In case any of you have
hummed this tune lately, on my way
to the promised land, I don't need to
tell you about the stones. To even
hum this tune, much less organize a
choir, you would . have thought that
you had done something as serious as
violating the Sabbath . When all you
were doing was protecting the Sabbath.
Giving the drum a little different
beat. Making a little fissure in
dominant ideology. Giving IT a little
break.
The dominant ideology is CAN DO -
- vigorous American optimism -- as
long as you are in favor of more, better,
growth and progress . It is CANT
BE DONE should you recommend sustainability.
Job Sharing. The Six
hour work day. The Protection of the
earth, air, and water from further
damage . Children being taken care of
by loving parents instead of commodified
along with health care, drama,
and music .
We wait for the Promised Land. We
will wait as long as we need .
Let us Pray: 0 God, plant our feet
towards promise and let us not faint.
Amen.
We don't listen
to those who
want us to
"stay in
our place."
My Soul Longs, indeed it faints for
the rourts of the Lord ....
-Psalm 84:2
WHY FAINT FOR THE courts of the
Lord? Why not do something about
our longing? Why not pin a fringe, a
piece of embroidery to the garment
we wear, and add color to a dull
world?
Take a little Sabbath . Give it a
break, even an afternoon a week, and
you have done something quite damaging
to the monotony. As strong as
the monoculture looks, it is really
quite vulnerable.
Ask the people you know who
already do wear the cross embroidered
somewhere on their lifestyle .
How do they manage to spend so
much time in the courts of the Lord.
They already do things differently.
Watch how the best among us manage.
We tithe. We give thanks at
meals. We take the strangers in. We
keep the doors of our churches open.
We visit with our people and disagree
with them that their daily
grind is hopeless. We travel out of
our place in the one dimensional
world into the courts of the Lord.
We don't listen to those who want us
to "stay in our place ." We go to court
· with criminals and st'and next to
them, whispering one, two, three
strikes, no matter how many times
you mess up and miss the ball, God
will never abandon you . Not my God
and not Your God. We go out of our
place. And we go out of our way. We
hope for things that other people
don't hope for. We make friends
with people who other people don't
make friends with.
We enter the courts of the Lord.
Let us Pray: Move us, 0 God, out of
our daily grind into your glorious
Court. Amen.
We feed
the
5000, one
sandwich
at a time.
If I send them away hungn; to their
homes, they will faint on the way - and
some of them have come from a
great distance.
-MarkB:3
JESUS IS AFRAID NOT to feed the
5000! He doesn't want them to weary
on their way home. Jesus has a great
tenderness in his heart. That tender ness
keeps us from fainting.
A therapist once said to me, ''Don't
sweat the small stuff." Then he continued,
"It's all small stuff." Jesus
paid attention to the details . In that
attention was his tenderness. His
tenderness keeps us from fainting.
I was shopping the sales rack of
winter coats with my ten year old son,
Isaac. The one coat in his size was
multicolor with just a splash of pink
on it at the neck. "I couldn't wear
that, he said." Why not? 'The pink.
Mom, can you imagine what would
happen to me if I wore that coat to
school?"
He also went with me to the wood
pile the same weekend. As we
approached it I grabbed a particularly
gnarled piece. Isaac grabbed it
back and said no don't burn that one.
What? That one reminds me of Jimmy.
Jimmy is the boy in his class that
is also paraplegic. "I never want to
burn that one," he said.
Tenderness doesn't need to wear
pink. Nor does toughness need to
wear blue . Strength for Christians is
not based in the pink and blue rules so
much as in the great love and tenderness
of God, the way God loves us in
ways that assure we have a sandwich
for the trip home. God is courteous.
God cares for us. If we want to
keep from fainting, we may simply do
and be the same.
We feed the 5000, one sandwich at a
time.
Let us Pray: Let us be more Godlike,
more polite, more attentive to the
small stuff, in imitation of your Son,
Jesus, Amen.
Faith in Daily Life
w
Why DO we
gad about?
Why not focus
on what is
important?
Why gaddest thou about so much to
change thy way?
-Jeremiah 2:36
FOCUS IS ONE OF THE great gifts of
great people. They seem to be able to
concentrate . To pay attention. To
hear their own depth and to follow
it.
Gadding about is one of the temptations
we all face, even those called
great . We flit. We do what the Buddhists
call "monkey mind ." We wander
from one room to another, looking
for our lost glasses, or the telephone,
or the gym bag. We gad about, even
in our own home, much less in our spiritual
lives, or at our jobs, or while
writing a letter. We lose our way
instead of. following our way. We get
in our own way! We clutter our center
with what Martin Luther called the
"adiophora." Adiophora means the
unessentials.
Theologians love to debate the unessentials
. Many homes live in clutter .
Many politicians clutter our mind
with things we don't want or need,
just to make us feel good long enough
to vote for them.
When we listen to the probing question
Jeremiah says God asks, we find
ourselves needing to respond. Why
00 we gad about? Why not focus on
what is important?
What is important? It is the mind
and heart of Jesus. It is love. It is
warmth. It is a central place from
which to live - a place that knows
God loves us and therefore we may
also love.
The rest is adiophora.
Let us Pray: 0 God, let me be of one
mind and one heart today. And let
the rest go by until its time. Amen. ,
The Rev. Donna E. Schaper is an Area
Minister of the Massachusetts Conference
of the United Church of
Christ.
PA G E 7 • SECOND STONE • MAY / J UNE, 1996
Dignity/Ba;ton: Catholic
newspaper refused ad for
Holy Week setvices
By Diego Ribadeneira
The Boston Globe
BOSTON - An organization of
Catholic gays and lesbians has protested
the refusal by the Pilot, the
official newspaper of the Archdiocese
of Boston; to print a paid
advertisement announcing the group's
Holy Week and Easter Sunday services.
The group, Dignity /Boston, said the
Pilot sent a letter in late March refusing
to run the ad, but did not cite a
reason.
Joan T. McAllister, the Pilot's
advertising manager, said that she
referred Dignity /Boston's ad request
to the paper's editor, Rev. Peter V.
Conley, who rejected it without
explanation. Father Conley could not
be reached for comment.
Officially, the Catholic Church
does not accept homosexual behavior
but it has denounced discrimination
against gays and lesbians.
But the group 's members argued
their holiday services should have
qualified for advertising space. "We
may not agree on all the issues, but
we're just as Catholic as the folks at
the Pilot," said Peggy Hayes, past
president of Dignity /Boston.
The Catholic Action League of Massachusetts
rebuked Dignity /Boston
for criticizing the Archdiocese of Boston.
League members called the complaint
"disingenuous" and the incident
"a tawdry publicity stunt."
Dignity /Boston, a 23-year-old
organization with about 100 members,
holds Sunday services in St. John the
Evangelist Church, an Episcopal parish
on Beacon Hill.
Dignity /Boston members pointed out
that the Pilot last December printed
an ad submitted by The Catholic
Alliance, an offshoot of the conservative
Christian Coalition. The
alliance has been criticized by many
US bishops as not representing
Catholic Church positions on social
issues such as welfare reform and
capital punishment.
At the time, John Walsh;-a spokesman
for the Archdiocese of Boston,
said The Catholic Alliance's ad was
a routine paid advertisement.
"We'd love the chance to purchase a
routine paid advertisement," said
Michael Leclerc, president of
Dignity /Boston.
Presbyterian churches withhold
money; await action on sexuality is.sues
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - Eight Presbyterian
churches are withholding
$47,000 in mission money from the
Presbytery of Scioto Valley because
of conflicting views on homosexuality.
Will Browne, acting presbyter, said
the money is being withheld until
the churches learn what action the
national General Assembly of the
church will take during its meeting in
New Mexico in late June. He would
not identify the churches.
The presbytery covers 113 churches
in central and southern Ohio.
Churches give money to the district
for service work.
At issue are whether homosexuality
is a sin and whether homosexuals
should be ordained .
"Some of them want a strong statement
on it and others want to leave
matters up to local churches," Browne
said concerning the churches' views of
homosexuality. "For some folks, it
seems that to ordain homosexuals
would support a homosexual lifestyle
. Our current position is that
homosexuality is a sin and homosexuals
cannot be ordained."
PAGE 8 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Churches, university to
discuss sexuality issues
By Jerry L. Van Marter
Presbyterian Church News
DAVIS, Calif. - A consortium of
churches, campus ministries and the
University of California at Davis are
gathering 300 religious leaders from
across the United States next fall to
explore how American religious institutions
can talk about issues of sexuality
without creating division within
their communities.
The Sept. 5-7 conference, "Finding
Common Ground: Human Sexuality
and American Religious Institutions,"
will be hosted on the UC-Davis camF
,s by The Belfry, the Lutheran/
Episcopal campus ministry at the university.
Among the co-sponsors are
numerous congregations, including the
Davis Community Presbyterian
Church, and several denominational
entities in northern California.
"All of us in American religious communities
are now, or soon will be, facing
major issues around sexuality in
our institutional life," noted the Rev.
Jim Kitchens, pastor of the Davis
Community Presbyterian Church.
"What we are seeking to do through .
this conference is to help one another
discover ways to engage in civil conversation
and debate about these
issues which do not tear .our denominations
apart."
The Evangelical Lutheran Church
in America-related Knutson Endowment,
which has provided major
funding for the conference, stipulated
that the conference "address human
sexuality and the church from a
broad-based perspective lo encourage
dialogue and promote respect, dignity
and courageous awareness among
Christians."
Featured speakers at the conference
will include the Rev. John Buchanan,
pastor of Fourth Presbyterian Church
in Chicago and a leader in the Presbyterian
Church (USA)'s efforts to
find reconciliation after the furor
that surrounded the denomination's
involvement in the November 1993
Re-Imagining conference. Keynote
speaker is the Rev. Mel White.
Further information about the conference
is available from Jean Hol
·sten at The Belfry, (916) 756-1550.
MCC member files discrimination
complaint against Morrison's
RICHMOND, Va. - A gay man has
filed federal employment discrimination
charges against Morrison's
Cafeterias. David M. Lambert
charges that he was fired from Morrison's
management training program
solely on the basis of hi& sexual orientation
and due to false rumors that
he was HIV-p a"§itive.
Lambert, 30, is openly gay and a single
parent will full legal custody of
his seven-year-old daughter . He has
been active in the gay community,
having served as pianist and worship
leader for MCC Richmond . He
also served as a founding member of
the Richmond chapter of the Gay
and Lesbian Parents Coalition, and is
the past Music Director for the MidAtlantic
District of the Universal
Fellowship of Metropolitan Community
Churches. ·
Lambert's attorney has encouraged
people to get involved with the case
by writing to the Equal Employment
Opportunity Commission, Attn: Ms.
Churchill, 101 West Main, World
Trade Center, Norfolk, VA 23510.
Lesbian couple's church duties nixed
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - A lesbian
couple is no longer participating in
activities at their south side church
because leaders there say homosexuality
is against Bible teachings .
The decision to remove one of the
women from the church choir was
made by the Board of Deacons at
Mount Zion Baptist Church . The
board has spiritual authority over
the church. The woman's partner voluntarily
stopped working with the
church's food pantry, said Percy
BrBwn, president of the Board of
_ Deacons.
The women were not identified
because they have children who participate
in church activities. One of
the women said the couple will not
leave the church because of their
children.
The woman said she has written a
letter of appeal to the deacons.
Brown considered the woman's ·
removal a.moral issue. A person can
also be removed from their duties for
drug abuse and adultery, Brown said.
National News
Methcxlists uphold opin;ition to gays
From Pagel
"incompatible" language was 710 to
238 - revealing a shift of 15 percent in
favor of a gay-affirming policy.
Delegates refused by a vote of 598 to
304 to approve holy unions, same-sex
covenants or any other marriage-like
ceremonies for gays and lesbians.
They later voted to have the Judicial
Council, the church's highest court,
decide whether the prohibition
would be church law or simply a
statement of guidance.
In an odd twist, delegates adopted a
resolution opposing discrimination
against gays and lesbians serving in
the armed forces.
The Methodist organization for
gays, Affirmation, called the vote to
uphold church policy "bearing false
witness."
"I would just say it's disappointing,
and we'll be back," said Jeanne Knepper,
a spokeswoman for Affirmation.
The church's action banning ordination
of gays sends a message to the
entire gay community that they are
not welcome, say leaders of the Reconciling
Congregation Program . An
independent United Methodist movement,
RCP counts 130 members -
churches, campus ministries, annual
(regional) conferences and others -
that welcome gay, lesbian and bisexual
people into the _church. The
organization's "Open the Doors" campaign
placed placards at a rally -
attended by about 250 people - held
during the General Conference that
displayed the names of more than
10,000 people proclaiming themselves
as "reconciling United Methodists."
Steve Marlatt, a gay man, was
among the speakers at the April 18
rally and press conference sponsored
by the RCP. In 1991, Marlatt and his
partner were active members of a
United Methodist congregation in
Southern California.Then a new pastor
arrived. "Your type is not needed
here," he told the pair .
Marfatt recalled the pain of his
own dismissal by the church pastor.
"He was not antagonistic," he
exp lained . "But his feeling was
• church was no place for a sinner."
Katherine Fuller of Willoughby,
Ohio, lamented that her daughter,
Marjorie, cannot fulfill a long-time
dream of being ordained in the
United Methodist Church because
she is a lesbian.
"I was and am fully able to support
my daughter," she said. "Now, if
only the church would support her,
too."
A United Methodist pastor in New
York State would not baptize the son
of Lynn Miller, a lifelong church
member, because he is being raised in
a lesbian household. And Diana
Chalfant, a coach with a winning
record, was fired from a United
Methodist college in Kentucky
because of her sexual orientation. ·
Chalfant does, however, take solace
in her involvement with Edgehill
United Methodist Church in Nashville,
Tenn., a reconciling congregation.
The church, its pastor and members
"did and still do give me the
strength to get through the week,"
she said.
The Rev. Karen Oliveto, pastor of
Bethany United Methodist Church in
San Francisco and chairperson of the
RCP board, noted that as long as such
discrimination exists in the denomination,
"our fellowship is flawed and
the body of Christ is weakened."
Also holding a press conference on
April 18 was the Transforming Congregations
Program, an ex-gay program
with no official ties to the
United Methodist Church. Rev.
Robert Kuyper, pastor of Trinity
United Methodist Church, Bakersfield,
Calif., and founder of the group
said the primary reason for the press
conference was "to challenge the possibility
that people believe change
(from a gay lifestyle) is impossible."
The ex-gay rally was attended by
several dozen people.
Prior to the vote on overturning the
anti-gay language in the Book of Discipline,
fifteen bishops signed a declaration
supporting gay rights, taking
exception to church doctrine. The
11 active and four retired bishops
released a statement April 18
expressing "pain ... over our personal
convictions that are contradicted by
the proscriptions in the (Book of)
SEE ME1HODISTS, Next Page
Traditional Episcopalians protest church visits by female suffragan bishop
By Marcy Gordon
Associated Press Writer
WASHINGTON (AP) - Saying they
are being persecuted by their bishop
for holding traditional beliefs, a
group of Episcopalians marched past
the National Cathedral on April 13
to protest church visits by a female
assistant bishop.
At a rally preceding the march, the
group of about 60 Episcopalians from
the Washington area protested recent
appearances at two churches by Jane
Holmes Dixon, one of six female
assistant Episcopal bishops in the
United States. The event was organized
by a group called Concerned Parishioners
of the Episcopal Diocese of
Washington, which opposes the ordination
of women and gays.
Carrying signs saying "Save Souls,
Jane Dixon Resign" and "Save Us
From False Doctrine," the marchers
chanted a slogan taken nearly verbatim
from the 1549 Book of Common
Prayer and aimed at Washington
Episcopal Bishop Ronald Haines:
"From the tyranny of the bishop of
Washington and all his detestable
enormities, good Lord deliver us."
The word enormities, in that context,
means deviation from moral rectitude
or extreme wickedness. The
chanters substituted the word
Washington for Rome in the original.
Haines, who sent Dixon to the
churches, has said that while he
could have avoided confrontation, he
wanted to push the issue lo attempt
lo unite the diocese around Episcopal
Church acceptance of women priests .
Haines also has ordained gay men.
Church traditionalists say they
view Dixon's church visits as a way
of forcing women priests on· unwilling
parishioners.
"They persecute us because we
adhere to the Holy Scriptures on
issues of morality," Stella Morabito
Green, a member of St. bike's Church
■ "They persecute us
because we
adhere tJ the
Holy Scriptures ... "
■
in Bladensburg, told the rally.
"What they care about is political
theology .... This is pure arrogance."
Haines and Dixon and their supporters,
she said, are seeking "the
total abolition of the church as we
understand it." She decried what she
called "ecclesiastical harassment" by
the diocese's leaders.
Added the Rev. William Ilgenfritz,
rector of Mount Calvary Church in
Baltimore: "Throw us out if you must,
but know that you are in for the biggest
battle of your life ... . We will not
go away."
Utah Episcopals denounce Legislature's
anti-gay clubs action
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) - The Utah
Legislature's passage of a law banning
gay student clubs in public
schools ~ as rebuked by the state's
Episcopal Diocese.
In a statement issued on behalf of
the Right Rev. George E. Bates, the
diocese's bishop, and the Standing
Committee of the Episcopal Diocese
of Utah, the church denounced the
action taken during the special session.
"Not only have lawmakers blocked
a variety of good and laud'cltory high
school clubs, they have singled out
one particular minority group for
criticism and condemnation," the recruiting tools .
church stated . "First, these (student clubs) have
Episcopal leaders also said the Leg- absolutely nothing to do with
islature had "perpetuated and exac- 'recruiting' someone who is heterosexerbated
the seminal problem of preju- ual into homosexuality," Firmage
dice and bigotry toward gay, lesbian said, dismissing the contention as
and bisexual persons. "absurd."
"We believe God's love and grace "Support groups for our adolescent
are unqualified; that God's accept- children offer simply a safe haven - a
ance of, and love for people is not place where they may be heard and
based on their sexual orientation." understood with loving acceptance of
Also criticizing the bill was Edwin who they are," he added.
B. Firmage, a University of Utah law Firmage also said that-singling out
professor who pointed to proponents a particular group in such a manner
arguments that gay-lesbian support was a "gross and spectacular violagroups
could serve as homosexual tion of human rights."
PAGE 9 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
National News
Big talk or big threat?
Militia preaches 'holy war' against Jews, gays
By Kelly Kurt
· Associated Press Writer
TULSA, Okla. (AP) - The man who
calls himself "prophet of the most
· high" shuffled slowly into the federal
courtroom in early April and
took his seat.
Willie Ray Lampley clasped his
hands and leaned forward _in his
chair as prosecutors flipped on a
video player. Suddenly, his passionate
voice filled the courtroom.
"If you want to have freedom in this
country, you 're going to have to shed
somebody's blood for it," the 65-yearold
says on the video, standing at a
podium dressed in military fatigues.
Lampley preached holy war
against Jews, gays and the government.
But should such talk be considered
rebellious rhetoric or real
threat?
."I take it dead seriously," said Morris
Dees, the head of the Southern
Poverty Law Center and one of Lamp.
ley's alleged targets.
While the trial for Lampley and
two other Oklahomans accused of
plotting to bomb buildings continued,
Dees' group issued a report warning of
a growing threat of domestic
violence.
"Unless we take decisive steps now
to respqpd to this threat, it is only a
matter of time before the country
endures another nightmare like the
Oklahoma City tragedy," Dees wrote
to Attorney General Janet Reno in a
letter accompanying the report.
A bomb destroyed the federal building
in Oklahoma City on April 19,
1995, killing 168 people and injuring
more than 500.
In "False Patriots: The Threat of
Antigovernment Extremists," the law
center's militia task force identifies
800 anti-government "patriot" groups,
including 441 unauthorized militias
nationwide.
The members of these groups often
are linked by an apocalyptic belief in
a "New World Order," a totalitarian
government intent on disarming its
citizens, Dees said.
"These people are training because
they believe our government has
turned on our own citizens," he said.
Lampley believed troops were
amassing in Mexico to install the new.
world government in the ·united
States. Civil rights centers, gays and
the federal government are part of
the movement, according to literature
he distributed.
Attorneys for Lampley and two others
accused in the case plan tu show a
METHODISTS, bishops said. "We will continue our
responsibility to the order and discipline
of the church but urge United
Methodist churches to open the doors
in gracious hospitality to all brothers
and sisters in the faith."
From Previous Page
Discipline against gays and lesbians
within our church and within our
ordained and diaconal ministries." Portions of the Disciplinary para graphs
to which the bishops refer
say: - the church does not condone the
practice of homosexuality and considers
the practice "incompatible with
Christian teaching;" - "self-avowed
practicing homosexuals are not to be
accepted as candidates, ordained as
Nevertheless, they affirmed their
commitment to uphold the Discipline
-of the church.
"We believe it is time to break the
silence and state where we are on this
issue that is hurting and silencing
countless faithful Christians," the
BIBLICHL ETHICS HND HOMOSEHUHLITY
Listening to Scripture
Robert L. Brawley, editor
This bold new book offers a challenge to the
church to give heed to the multiplicity of voices
that are engaged .in biblically responsible and
constructive debates about the volatile issues
regarding se,uality.
Contributors include Robert Brawle.y, J.
Andrew Dearman, Elizabeth Gordon Edwards,
Dale B. Martin, Ulrich W. Mauser, Sarah J.
Melcher, Choon-Leong Seow. Jeffery Siker and
Herman C. Waetjen.
Biblical Ethics and Homosexuality,
$16.99, paperback
ORDER FROM SECOND STONE PRESS.
SEEPAGE 22.
PAGE 10 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
government informant led three
otherwise peaceful, law -abiding citizens
astray.
The head of a militia in nearby
Eufaula sees the case as a government
trap, designed to help get a restrictive
anti-terrorism bill through Congress.
"I think he was a puppet and the
strings were being pulled," said Ross
Hullett, the leader of the Oklahoma
■
guy who kicks in my door is bought
and paid for," said Hullett, 67.
No bomb was never detonated in the
Lampley case, but federal agents said
they found ingredients at his home
similar to those used in the bomb in
Oklahoma City. .
Dees said that unless more is done to
control militia groups, more violence
on the scale of the bombing is imminent.
"If you want to have freedom in this
country, you're going to have to shed ·
somebody's blood for it..."
Citizens Militia.
The biggest threat isn't the talk of
militias, Hullett said, but that of
people like Dees who "are pushing
the disarmament of the American
government."
"We're not out to overthrow the
government, but when they declare
war on the people or turn foreign
troops on the people, then the first
ministers, or appointed to serve The
United Methodist Church;" - no
churchwide money may be given to
any "gay caucus or group" or be used to
"promote the acceptance of homosexuality."
Among the signers ·was West Ohio
Conference Bishop Judit'.1 Craig, one
of seven female bishops in the
church. Craig delivered the bishops'
statement - the first woman to do so
in the 184-year history of General
Conferences. Also signing was Bishop
Melvin Talbert of San Francisco, president
of the National Council of
Churches and a member of the Executive
Committee of the World Council
of Churches .
The 11 active bishops signing the
statement were: Craig; Talbert; William
W. Dew Jr., Portland (Ore.)
Area; Calvin D. McConnell, Seattle
Area; Susan M. Morrison, Philadelphia
Area; Fritz Multi, Kansas Area;
Donald A. Ott, Michigan Area;
Sharon Zimmerman Rader, Wisconsin
Area; Roy I. Sano, Los Angeles Area;
Mary Ann Swenson, Denver Area; and
Joseph H. Yeakel, Washington Area.
Retired bishops signing the statement
were: C. Dale White, Newport,
-R.J.; Jesse R. DeWitt, Naperville,
Ill.; Leontine T.C. Kelly, San Mateo,
■
"What does it take for a guy to mix
up a batch of ammonium nitrate? To
put a car in front of our building ... and
blow it up?" he said. "You don't just
say, 'This is just some old kook.'
"We can expect more bombs," Dees
said. "Oklahoma City wasn't the
first. It was the worst ... but I
seriously don't think it will be the
last ."
Calif.; and Melvin G. Wheatley ·Jr .,
Laguna Hills, Calif.
The Rev. David A. Seamands of
Nokomis, Florida, said that he supported
the anti-gay church policy as
"our basic, bottom-line biblical and
theological standard on sexual practices."
Luis Travino, a delegate from Mexico,
asked the conference to remember
the church in Mexico and Latin America,
where homosexuality is not
accepted.
"Methodism is not only yours. Don't
make us ashamed to be United Meth odists."
Others argued for a change. ,
''The church must be careful not to
condemn when it doesn 't have a
really clear basis," said the Rev.
Philip Wogaman, pastor at Foundry
United Methodist Church in
Washington, D.C. "My friends, we
need one another. We need healing on
this issue ."
The Board of Church and Society
had recommended dropping the condemnation
of homosexuality and
replacing it with the statement that
the church "has been unable to arrive
at a common mind on the compatibil ity
of homosexual practice with
Christian faith."
About our Resource Guide ...
The churches, organizations and publications
listeq. below are resources for gay,
lesbian and bisexual Christians. Listmgs
are correct and up to date through May 11,
19%. Accuracy of an organization's listi!'
g is the responsibility of the organization.
We apologize for any omissions. Corrections
may be sent to P.O. Box 8340, New
Orleans, LA 70182. In most cases, area
codes are listed in the city heading only.
National
AFFIRMATION: Gay & Lesbian Mormons, P.O. Bo,c -46022, Los
~A~A~o=ii~~~~~~,;\ll' Gay & Lman Concerns, P.O.
Box 1021, Evlrlsbl , IL692()4. (708)733·95.90.
AlDS NATIONAl. lNTERFAfll1.NE1WORK, 110 M81)1and Ave., NE,
Si>. 50<, Washingtai, OC 20002. (202)5'6-0807, (800)288-9619, FAX
(202)~&5103. Plblication: lnl8'acfon.
AMERICAN BAPTISTS CONCERNED, 13318 Cla•eponte Way,
Oakland, CA9<C619-3531. (510)-465-8652. Voice oltie Tur'de
AMERICAN CML LIBERTIES UNION, Gay,tes~an Aig,IS Projel1_
132West43"dSt, New York.NY 10036.
AMERICAN FRIENDS $ERVICE COMMITTEE (Quaker) 22-49 E.
&mside SI., POlfand, OR 97214. (503)m!M27.
ASSOCIATION OF WELCOMING ANO AFFIRMING BAPTISTS,
P.O. Bo~ 2596, Atleboro Fa/ls, MA 02763~. VfF (508)~5.
WABaphts~aol.com. http:Alsers.aol.comNtabaptists. A network of
churches, O(ganizations and inciviaJals who welcome and a~ocate Zi:rc~~ =~rd::~: gay, and bisexual peoplewitiln lhe
AXIOS: Eastern and Ortlodox ams~ans. 328 w. 17tti St l◄ •F, New
YorkNY 10011. (212-11 .
BALM MINISTRIES, P:O.S::>x 1981, Costa Mesa, CA 92628.
(71-4)641-8968. Ma,ooa Stevens,silger/soigwriler. SUzarme MeKeag,
manager.
BLK Magazine, Box 83912, Los Aflge!es, CA 90083-0912. {310) ◄10--
0808.
BRETHREN/MENNONITE PARENTS OF LESBlAN/GAY CHILDREN,
Box 1708, l.ma, OH 45802.
BRETHREN / MENNONITE COUNCIL FOR LESBlAN AND GAY
CONCERNS. Box 6300, Minneapolis, MN 55406-0300. {612)305-
0315. BMCouncil@aol.com. h~1hvww.w~.cooi,bmc/5upport
for Brethren and Mennonile gay, lesbian, and bisexual people, and ~:+ro~c5
C~~~e1n~esGA~gi1~tR~~f:.~~~~~ew
Yak, NY 10159. (718)629-2927.
CATHOLIC PARENTS NElWORK, c/o Fr. Robert Nugen\ 637 Cover r~~=@~Ss2.:\Wt (301)927-8766, FAX (301)864-6948.
CENTER FOR HOMOPHOBlA EDUCATION, Box 1985, New York,
NY 10159.(301)86 ◄ -8954. ·
CHI AHO ~RESS• A special wo,k of the UFMCC Mid-Attantic Dis•
trict Publisher of religious books and materials. P.O. Box 7864,
g~~=~ ·l~g~J:·b~~~~~ ·ER. P.O. Box 10062, Corum·
bos, OH 43201.
COMMON BONO (former Jehovah's Witnesses, Morm011s) Box 405,
Elwood, PA 16117. (412)758-0704.
COMMUNICATION MINISTRY, INC.· Dialogue and support goop /or
gay and lesbian Catholic clergy and religious._P.O. Box 60125, Chi·
cago, IL 60660-0125. Publication: Communication
CONFERENCE FOR CATHOLIC LESBIANS, P.O. Box 436 Planeteri1.1n
Sin., New Ycrk, NY 10024. (718)921-o-463.
DAUGHTERS OF SARAH· The magazine for Ouistian Feminists,
3801 No. Keeler,Chicag>, IL00641, (312)7=99.
OIGNITYAJSA, 1500 Massachusetts Ave., NW, S1e. 11, Wash1ngtori,
OC 20005. (202)861-0017, FAX (202) ◄ 29·9808. Gay and lesbian
Calllolics and their friends.
ECUMENICAL CATHOLIC CHURCH, P.O. Box 32, Villa Grande.
CA 95486-0032. (707)865-0119, FAX, (707)865-2437. The Mos! Rev.
Mark s. Shirilau, Ph.D. plusmark@aol.com. Publicaliori: The Tablet
EROSPIRIT RESEARCH INSTITUTE, P.O. Box 3893, Oakland, CA
94609. (510)◄ 28-9063 . NetNork ol gay and lesbian ecstatics offering
~AfJG~t~C6"N~~~Nft~:~i . Ralph Blair, 311 East 72nd
st , New York, NY 10021. (212)517•3171. Publicatioos: Review and
Recad
THE EVANGELICAL NElWOAK, Box 16104, Phoenix, Iv.. 85011.
(002)265-2831.
FEDERATION OF PARENTS ANO FRIENDS OF LESBIANS ANO
GAYS, INC. P.O. Box 27605, Washinglon, OC 20038.(202)638-4200.
. ~:IJSooFi~a~~':A~f':~ti~AY CONCERNS (C\Jakers) 143
Campbell Ava., l~aca. NY 14850. (607)272-1024, FAX (607)272· 0801. GAY ANO LESBlAN PARENTS COALITION INTERNATIONAJ., P.O.
Box 50360, Washington, OC20091. (202)583·8029. Publication: Nel•
W"'1t
GAY, LESBlAN ANO AFFIRMING DISCIPLES Al.LIANCE, P.O. Box
~~·~~:~n~;~'r~:~~ChW~1f)~t!~~~~~~:s~1
GAYELLOW PAGES • P.O. Box 292, Village Sin., New York, NY
10014. (212)674-0120.
t?~~~~ ~~~•:'~u~~~~.l~~l~r~~/~~~• c/o Da~d
HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN, 1101 14th SI., NW, Ste. 200, Washilg--
1ai, 0C 20005. (202)628- ◄ 100.
INDEPENDENT CHURCH OF RELIGIOUS SCIENCE, ◄102 East 7~
St., #209, long Beadl, CA 90804. (310) ◄33-0384.
INNER HEALING, 22385 Bayview His., Los OSos, CA 93402.
f~5fc;3~j.g.~1
1N~~;,eg:~;~1~~York, NY 10185·5255.
(201 )868·2485. Publication: The Voice of lnteg1ty
INTERNATIONAL FREE CATHOLIC COMMUNION, P.O. Box
51158. Riverside, CA 92517·2158 (909)781·7391 Publication: The
Free Catholic Communicant
•UNIVERSAL FELLOWSHIP OF METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY
CHURCHES 5300 Sanla .Monica llvd., #30◄, Los Ang~es, CA
900~. {213)464-5100. Ptbhcation: K~ngin Touch
WILDERNESS MANNA, 140◄ Arnold Ave., San Jose, CA 95110.
~:_)451·9310. A Christian _environmental ministry; newslel!e< and
THE WITNESS, Pu~ished by ~a Episcop~ Church f\J~ishing Co.,
~Washington Bvd., Ste. 3115, Oe•oit. Ml 48226·1868. (313)962·
WOMEN'S AWANCE FOR THEOLOGY, ETHICS AND RITUAL, ~m1~~~~~i~tt~~0
20910 (301 )589-2509, FAX (301 )589-
WOMEN'S ORDINATION CONFERENCE, P.O. Box 2693, Fairfax,
VA 22031-0693. (703)352-1006.
THE WOMEN~ PROJECT, 2224 Main St , Liffle Rock, AR 72206.
_ ~f~~2~~~orkSlops on women's issues, social justice, racism
INTERNATIONAL GAY ANO LESBIAN ARCHIVES, The Nalalie WOOOSWOMEN•Ac1Jenhlre1r,i~forwcrnen,25W.Oiamondl.ake
~~:(~~)~~:t~~bl~~~-~~ti~x 38100, Hollyirtood, CA ~t~~~~is, MN 55419, (800)279-0555, (612)822-3809, FAX
INTERWEAVE, 25 Beacon st, Boston,_MA 02108. (617)742·2100. A
lay organizatioof Unitarian UniversaHsls fol' lesbian, bisexual, gay
and tr«isgender concerns.
LAMBDA CHURCH GROWTH INSTITUTE, P.O. Box 370, Aulhe,
Glen, VA 225'6. (804)448-2031. FAX (804)◄48 ·3146. Church g0\V1h
~~{aTr~ :~~~!i~ gayAesbian churches. Rev. James N.
LESBIAN CATHOLICS WITNESSING FOR CHANGE, Box 3&91,
New York, NY 10185-3891. (718j680;;107.
LIFELINE BAPTISTS, Rev. James T. Williams, Sr., M.O. 8150 Lakecresl
Or., Greenbel\ MO 20770.
LIVING PENS, PO Box 254, Avoca, AR 72711--025◄. Pen pals for
HIV/AIDS indvidlals.
LIVING STREAMS, P.O. Box 178, Concord, CA 9◄522-0178. S·
r~~l~WJ%~cERNED I NORTH AMERICA Box 10◄61, Fort
=.ri1~ti~b~:ifriJLF~1~~~~~~ •;;.;:;:g,
mulH'lssue neM'ork, 76 Cfintori Ave., Slaten ls-land, 10301-1107
(71S)273·MFSA. ·Publicam: Social Ouesions B.JRein.
MERCY OF GOO COMMUNITY, PO Box ◄ 1055 , Providenca, Al
02!M(l-1055. ( ◄01)722·3132. Chrisian, Ecumenical Md inclusive
communify ol' sistecs, broilers and associates.
MORE LIGHT CHURCHES NElWOAK, 600 W. Fullerton Pkwy.,
cticag,, llt;a;1 ◄-2690, (312)338-0452. Resourcepad<e\ $12. f\Jbfi-
:~6~A~ ~~~ON Nowt~rJ~ IOCESAN LESBIAN
ANO GAY MINISTRIES, ◄33 Jetferson st., Oakland, CA 94607.
. (510)465·93 ◄-4. Newsleller and nalional conference.
~~ONla~oo'ER FOR LESBIAN RIGHTS· 166.'3 Mission St, 51h
Fir., San Francisco, CA94103.
NATIONAL CONGRESS FOR LESBIAN CHRISTIANS PO Box 814
Capi1oa, CA 95010 (800)861-NCLC. , '
NATIONAL COALITION OF Bl.ACK LESBIANS ANO GAYS, P.O.
Box 192◄8, Wa!hingtori, DC 20036.
NATIONAJ.COUNCILOFCHU~HES, ◄75 Aive,gde Or., Naw York,
NY 10115. AlOSTask Force, AC0'11572, (212)870--2421. Hum!Wl Sex•
~~gf,,~'to<;JroWt~t~J~~k. Washington Office 110 Mar-
~and Ave., NE, Wasllin<1on, OC 20002. (202)5' ◄ ·2350. '
NA TIONAJ. ECUMENICAL COAJ.mON, 1953 Colum~, Pike 12◄,
M'1glon, VA2220<-4569. (703)553-8931.
();'.!l;~,~~~Blr T~~~t~~~ 7NW,
NATIONAL GAY. PENTECOWl.L ALUANCE (also Pentecostal
~~1
1
~1s:,~e 1~~tr.::t~~~ti~~~=f:.af, NY
NEW OIREC~ON Magazine for gsyAesbian Mormons, 6520 Selma
Ave., Ste. AS·◄.«>, Los Mgeles, CA 90028. ·
NEW W,A:YS MINISTRY, ◄012 291h st., Ml Rainier, MD 20712,
:~~7~!~~(3~:-::d~r~:~I\:~~~
OPfN i AFFIRMING t1NISTR1El, Gay, Lesbian and Affirming Disciples.
Alliance, Rev. Alleo V. Harris. cJo 1010 Park Ave., New York,
~~~:is:!1
m\~:Jl:0~4:~ri::~~ur~(J:~~C:~~-)
which seek to welcome and affirm test1an. gay, and bisexual PE!f·
sons.
THE OTHER SIDE Magazine, 300 W. Apsley St, Pl'll!adelphia, PA
~!!!~2s~5)849-2t 78. Publishes articles ol interest to jl'ogessive
OTHER SHEEP Multicultur11I Minislries with Sexual Minormes 319
N. Four1h 11902, SI. lou!s, MO 63102·193.S. (3U)241·2400.' FAX
(314)2 ◄1·2403. E--rnail: 9herzog@aol.com. Theological and ed!ca•
~~j~r=al~·;:s~,1:l~nstn:!~Z:~~~ .positive
PRESBYTERIANS FOR LESBIAN & GAY CONCERNS, P.O. Box
38, New Brun,.ick, NJ 08903-0338. (908)932-7501, (900)249-1016.
Publication: More Uglt Update
PRISM, 733 15trl St., NW, Ste. 317, Washington. DC 20005·2112.
(202)3 ◄7•3313. Dva--sity wOO:shops for chu-ches and g~.
RECONCILING CONGREGATION PROGRAM, 3801 N. Keeler Ave., g;:?;°~ 60641. (312)73&-5526. FX (312)736•5◄ 75. Publication:
REFORMED CHURCH IN AMERICA GAY CAUCUS, P.O. Box 817◄
Philadeph!a, PA 19101·8174 '
RELIGION WATCH, P.O. Box 652, Nor#l Bellmore, NY 11710. A
$~~s1Se~~~~origi~~c%~xct~rs~~~~~ION, 1205 No.
~~¥Z~~'¼ t~~ ~~rotffe~tsJ~3k8~·We:C{k 01 the
American OthOOOx Catholic Church o!St Gregxios, P.O. Box 1543,
~~\rN"ftf°6W2o~~i
3
JiNSHIP INTERNATIONAL, Box ~~c~:,~~~ecroo 90078-3840. (617)436-5950. (213)87&-2076.
SILENT HARVEST MINISTRIES, PO Box 190511, Dallas, TX 75219-
0511. (21 ◄)520-6655.
SUPPORTIVE CONGREGATIONS NETWORK, Mennonite and
Brethren, PO Box 6300, Minneapolis, MN 55406·0300.
SCNetwork@aol.com. A network ol Mennonite, General Conference
Mennonite and Oml'ch oflhe Brethren congegatiooswhich welcome
gay, lesbian Elld bisexual members.
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST OFFICE FOR LESBIAN/GAY CON·
CERNS, 25 Beacon st. Boston, MA02108. (617)742·2100.
UNITED CHURCH COAJ.mON FOR LESSjAN i GAY CONCERNS,
18 N. College, Athens, OH ◄ 5701, (GU) 593-7301. Publication:
Waves
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST, Office for Olurch in Society, 110
Marylllfld Ave., NE, Washilglcn, OC 20002. (202)5-43-1517.
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST PARENTS OF LESBIANS ANO
GAYS, c/o Rev. Juditti aaussen, Bruce Rennie, 505 Orchard tx.,
C.-bonda~.IL62901.(618)◄ 57·5◄ 79.
UNITED LESBIAN ANO GAY CHRISTIAN SCIENTISTS· Box 2171,
~::oR= ~'h ~;~:~:;~N~~~~:v~:~,11. Beverly Hil s, CA 90213-2171. (213)85().8258
UNITY FELLOWSHIP CHURCH, 51 ◄9 W. Jefferson Blvd., Los
Angeles, CA 90016. (213 )936-49◄ 9, FAX (213)938-4973.
International
Liberty" Community Church, Ste. ◄02·2388 Triumph St, Vancouvef,
OC V5L1l5 Canada (604)254-0'.182. Sun., 6:30p.m. at Sl John's
United Church. 1401 comox St, Vancouver, BC.
~ct::·:lt~e:~t~~~j~7~~~:~~o~At!::~~:~~
tor . .
Alabama
BIRMtlGHAM(205)
.AJabama Forum, PO 8ox 55894, 35255-5894 328-9228
Srmilg1am Com1T1Jntty ChU1ch, PO Box 130221, 35213. 849-8505.
Covenant MCC, PO Box 101◄ 73, 35210. 599·3363. Sun 118 m
7p.m.51171s1Ave.,N. ., · ·•
Frioi<II Meelilg (Clulk8!S), 592-0570.
ln1~.871-1815.
Pitgim Coog-ega.tional Churd'l, 879--162◄ .
StAncl'eW's EpiacopalC!lurch,251-7898.
Unitarian Universalisl Congegstion, 879-5150.
I.JrjtyC!lurch,251-0713
HUNTSVIU.E (205)
MCC of Huntsville, PO Box 10021, 35801. 851-6914.
MO!IILE (205) ~CCJb~':~:g:,x 6311, 36660-6311. ◄ 76·4621. SUnday, 7pm.
• MCC, PO Box 603, 3610H)603. 264·7887. Sunday, 5:30p.m. al5280
Vlllg>nAd.
Alaska
PALMER(907)
Church of the Covenan~ P.O. 8ox 2888, 996◄5. 746·1089.Howard H.
~ . pas1or. A Welcoming and Affirming American "Baptist Coog-egs!
ion.
Arizona
MESA
Boundess LoveCommunit)'Church, 2128 N 641h St, 85215-2811.
PHOENIX (602)
Alfirmation (Mormons), PO Box 26601, Tempe, 85285-6601. ◄ 33·
1321.
Casa De Cristo Evangelical Church, 1029 E. Turney, 8501 ◄. 265--
2831.
Oig,i~lrllegily, PO Box 60953, 85082-0953. 258·2558.
Gentle ShephErd MCC, 3◄25 E. Mountain View, 85028. 996-7644.
Healing Waters Ministries, 225 W. University Dr., #105, Tempe.
85281. 89+a681.
l.utleuris CortCEmed, PO Box 7519, 85011. 87()..3611.
Oasis MCC, 2405 E. c«onado, 85008. 275-3534.
Presbylerianslor Lesbian &Gay Cortcems, PO Box 61162, 85082.
TUCSON (520)
Casa De Le Paloma Apostolic Church, PO Box 1-4003, 85732·4003.
323-6855. 1122 N. Jones Bvd Rev. Margaret "Sandy Lewis, pasb'.
Cornerstone Fellowship, 2902 N. Geronimo, 85705. 622·4626. Sun·
day, 9a.m., 10:30a.m., We<ilasday, ~ .m. Recla Schaff, pastor.
lntegity, c/o Grace St Paul's Episcopal Church, 2331 E. Adams St,
85719. 7!11 -7◄30 .
MCC, 3269 N. Moun tan Ave., 85719. 292·9151.
Man's Social Network, ◄207 N. Umber1osl Cir., 85705. 690·9565.
SOCial activities IOI"' gay men ol all ages.
EUREKA SPRINGS (501)
MCC of~e Living Springs, PO Box 365, 72632. 253-9337. 178k
FAYETTEVILLE (501) ·
Ecumenical Catholic Church, ◄◄ 4 ·9692. Paul Smith, contact person.
MCC ol lhe Ozarks, PO Box 92, 72702--0092. 443·4278.
Restoration Fellowship in Jesus Christ, P.O. Box 3820, 72702. ◄◄ 4·
9692. Rev. Elci!f Joseph Paul Smith. jpaul111@aol.com.
LITTLE ROCK (501)
8cxt; o!Christ, PO Box 136◄ , 72203. 374•1693.
Holy Cross Ecumenical Cath.olic Church, 663-6859. Fr. Christopher
Ehemann
Hope Apostolic Church, P.O. Box ◄563, 7221 ◄. 663-3711. TOD 663·
i~6·!tr,~~~~tr964~~~~_' fti~fQ75_ 2017 Chan~
der, NO. Little Rock.
~r~t =~ -PO Box 586, 72203. 223·2828. Sunday, 2p.m. al ~:_nan Universatist ChlKch, 1818 Reservoir Rock Rd, 72207. 225--
California
APPLE VALLEY (619)
Ug'lt ol the Desert Church, PO Box 247, 92307. 247•2572. SUnday,
6:lOp.m.
A RAO YO GAANOE (9J5)
~~~~J~r Catiolfc Church .A9ostolate, 258 Aspen St , 111,
BLYTHE(619)
Gocfs Garden Growl'! Cenlt!', 283 N. Solano.922-0947. Bro. Michael
W.Tucker,paslor.
CONCORD (510)
Free Catholic Apostolate of !he Redeemer. 1440 Detroit Ave. #3
94520. 798-5281. ' '
EAST BAY AAEA (510)
~ablo Valley MCC, 2253 Concord Blvd.. Concord, 94520. 827•2960.
Sunday, 108.m,, 7p.m.
Firs1 Baptist Church, 2345 Channing Way, Berkeley, 94704. 848·
~ - Esther Hargis, pas!_or. Meets in small chapel of First Coog-ega•
~~al Church. A Welcoming and Affirming American Bap~st Conge--
rr!e00Catholic Apostol ate of tie Redeemer, 3849 Maybelle Ave. #8
9◄619. 53(>-7055. ' '
Gay, Lesbian, and Affirming Disciples, Univ. Christian Church,
Berkeley. Third&m ., 4p.m.
lakeshOfe Avenue Bapist ChUfch, 3534 Lakeshore Ave., Oakland,
~10. 8~2464. ~ames H. H~lns, pas!«. A Welcomi'lg and Alfir~
mg Arnenca.n Baptist congegation.
New Life MCC, 1823 911 St., Eiefkelay, 9<710. 843-9355. SUndey,
12~m.
Presbyterians !or lesbian & Gay Concerns, 3900 Harrison st., Oakland,
94611. 653-2134.
IRVINE(714)
Irvine United Ch~rch of Chris~ 4915 Alton Pkwy., 92714. 733·0220.
~ OP:(ln & Affirming Congegation, proucty progessive, intentionally
inclusive.
LANCASTER (805)
Sunrise MCC ol the Hi Desert, PO Box 886, 93584-0886. 942·7076.
LONG BEACH (310)
Diglity, PO Box 92375, 90809-2375. 9&4-8400.
FirSt Congegational Church, 2◄ 1 Ceder Ave., 90802. ◄36·2256. AA
Open and Affirming Coogegation of Iha Un led Church ol Ctfist
MCC, 1231 Locu~Ave., 90813-311 ◄. ◄ 32-3641.
LOS ANGELES AREA (213) ·
~~~~
1
~l=~~e0lodsts), PO Box ◄6022, West Hollywood,
Chris1 tie Shepherd Lutheran Church, 185W. Altade'la Dr., Altadena
91001.(818)79+70(1. '
Crescent Heights UMC, 1296 No. Fairfax Ave., West Hollywood,
900◄6. 656-5336.
Oig,ity, PO Box ◄20◄0, 90042-00<0. 344-8064.
Dignity&n Gabriel Valley, 502 Mesa Cir., Monrovia, 91016-1638.
(818)62()-5167.
Divine Rede·emer MCC, 346 Riv8f'dale Or., Glendale, 91204.
~500--712◄. SUnday, 10:-458.m., Wed., Fri., 7:30p.m. Rev. Stan
Ecumeoical Catiolic Chl.lfch in Huntington Park, 589-6903. Fr. Otilio
Gallo. ~ish-speaking ca,17egation.
Evangelicials Together, 7985 Santa Monica Blvd., #109, Box 16.
900◄ 6. 6.56-8570. ET News
Free Spi~il MC9, _5208 Hartwick St, 9004H 515. 464·5100. Sunday,
6p.m., pnson m1nisby.
Hoy Trinity Community Church, PO Box ◄ 296 ◄, 900◄2. 38◄-5◄22.
3323 W. Beve,-ty llvd.
lnteg-ily, 7985 Santa Monica Blvd., #109·113, West Hollywood,
90046. fl62.6301.
Lambda Christian Fellowship, PO Box 1967, Hawthorne, 90251.
La~n Church ol Christian Fellowship, 3323 W. Beverly Blvd., 90004.
◄33-2047.
Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Refigous Coalition, 7985 Santa Monica
Bvd., #109, Box 104, 900◄ 6.
Lutherans Concerned, 11225 Magnolia Blvd., Box 290, No. Holly·
wood,91601. 665--lCNA. ~f~7
~~:Jalley, 5730 Cahuenga Blvd., No. Hollywood, 91601.
~CC of the Vineyards, 11012 Venlul'a Bvd., #125◄, Stucio City, CA
91oo+3546. MCC otSi/verlake, 3621 Brunswick Ave., 90039--1727. 665-8818.
New Hope Christian Church, PO Box 316, Van Nuys, 91 ◄08.
(818)765-1590. SUlday, Sp.m. al9550Haskell Ave.
Presbyterians_ tor Lesbian & Gay Concerns. 3373 Oescanso Dr., 11,
90026. 262-8019. .
Seventh Day Awentist Kinship tnterna~ooal, PO Box 3840, 90078·
3840. 876-2076.
St. John's Episcopal Church, 514 W. Adams Blvd, 90007. 747-6285.
SI. Matthew's Lutheran Church, 11031 Camarillo St., No. Hollywood,
91002. (818)762-2909. ASLintEJpretatia, frst and last Sm.
~~~~~f;I~;~O=~~cientisls , PO Box 2171, Beverty'
~~~fJ,Chllch, 51 ◄9W . Jefferson Svd., 90016. 936-4948.
MCC, PO Box 3092. 95353-3092. 578-3694.
NAPA(707)
~~~i~ec~~e~y~;~~)Viltage Pkwy., 94558. 255-6917.
Chrisl Chapel MCC, 720 N. Spurgeon st., Santa Ana, 92701 ·3722.
635-0722
Ecumenical Catholic Church, 979•1840. Yadira Taylor, contact persoo.
.
Evangelicals Concerned South Coasi PO Box ◄ 308, Costa Mesa,
92628·◄ 3~. 222·4933. Bible study, fellowship meetings, prayer
,~~ss:;~~~~~~j·
Christ Chapel o! the Desert, 938 Vela Ad., 92264. 327·2795.
~~i~·::
46e~e.,{::0 ~;:,~~:~:9
cf:~~i~: ·322.
9696,
RBJONOO BEACH (310)
Center loc Passionate Spiritualltj, 2607 Harriman Ul., #1, 90278-4547.
374•n18. Rich Rossiter, drector. Spiritual cireetion, retreals andlor·
mation events tor ~ib/1 persons.
REOWOOO CITY (◄ 15)
Calvary MCC, PO Box 70, 9-4064-0007. 368-0188. 2124 BrewstEr St.
RIVERSIDE (909)
CommunttyofChristlhe Life Giver, PO Box 51158, 92517. 781-7391.
~g~~x~~:1
i~te~lle, 95446. 887-7622. 869-0552. 14520
Armstong WOOOO Ad.
SACRAMENTO (916)
Oi!lf'~. PO Box 161765, 95816.
Koin01a Christian Fellowship, PO Box 189444. 95818. 452-5736.
Tom Rossi,paslor.
The latest Issue, PO Box 160584, 95816. 737-1088.
River City MCC, PO Box 245125, 95824. 454•4762. 27◄1 34th St.
SALINAS(◄ O~
lntegity, c/o Church of the Good Shepherd, 301 Corral de Tierra,
93908. 294-2026.
SAN ANDREAS (209) ~"ftN:~:rsfve Apl 4, Tunock, 95380-2626. 478-3515.
Spectrum, 1000Sir Francis Drake EWvd.,#12,9-4960. 457·1115 .
SAN BERNARDINO/RIVERSIDE/POMONA (909)
Affirmation {Methodsts), 1325 N. Claremont, Box 302, aaremon~
91711.624-2159.
Claremont United Methodist Church, 211 W. Football Bvd., Clare•
~:!o9b~~~:·~~~·~~6:1~8 ~giti;e.TI~~o~ : aa1-
5025. Moo.-SSt, 7p.m.·12am.
St Aelreds Parish, Sarum Episcopm Church (Cid Ca~olic), 1580 No.
0 ·st., Ste. 5 , San Bernardino, 92 ◄05 . 384·1940.
PBreton714@aol.com. Rev. Df.J. E. Paul Breton, pas1:or. Wed., 7p.m.;
sun., 11a.m.
SAN DIEGO AAiEA (619)
J ffirmalion (Mormons), PO 8ox 86469, 92138-6-469. ◄89-6602.
Ancha Minislries, 3441 UniverSty Ave., 92104. 284-8654. Cherismat•
ic, full gospel church.
Dig1ity. PO Box 33367, 92163. Dig1ity Center, 4561 Park Hvd. 295-
258◄.
lnEg-ily, PO 8ox 34253, 92163-0801. 234·1829.
MCC in theCoonby, 3901 Manzanita Cx.,#C, 92105. 282·8488. Son•
:&:"PE·~~:r:2'f~3~1. 261H3l3. 4333 30thSI.
Pacific Beach United Melhods1 Church, 1561 Thomas, 92109. 274• .
6573. Sun., t0 :158.m.
SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA (◄ 15)
Digity , 132971lAve., 94122. 255--9244. SUOOiy, 5:3(:p.m.
PAGE 11 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Resource Guide
Do\OfeSlraet 8ap1st Church, 938 Valencia St. at Liberty, 94110.
826-26-41. Fl>X, 282·2826. Drug llool"f, i>'SI«. q,a12031iaol.rom
G~des GateMCC, 1500Cllurcl1 S1.,94131-2018.
Freedom In Quist Evangelical Church, P.O. Box 1 ◄462 , San Fran,
CA 9-411 ◄. 905-6509. sun., 1:30p.m. at 50 Belcher Sl, between 141h
Stand l)Jboce.
Lulherans Coocerned, 566 Vallejo St , 125, 94133-4033. 956-2069.
AdVent
MCC, 150 Eureka SL, 94114-2492. 863•4434. SUnday, 9, 11a.m.,
7pm.
Oasis/California, 110 Julian Ave., 94103. 522·0222.
oasiscatft~aol.com. Gay and lesbian minis~ of the Episcopal
Diocese of California. ~:~:.~~~:r~::~s~C:cls~~~:n~~:ee~n2:.~~:p leaders. .
Trinity EpiScq>al Church, 1668E\lshSt.,94109. ns.1111.
Unitarian Universa11s1 Gay/1..eSIBi, 1187 Franklin, 94109. 731·3.915.
UCClJ3C, 20Woodside Ave., 94127. 576-1554.
SAN JOSE (408)
Dig,ify, PO Box 21n, Santa Clare, 95055.977·4218.
Ecomenfcal Catt,olic Church, 374-3430. Scott Burris, contact person.
First Christian Church, 80 S. 5th St., 95112. 294·29◄◄. Richard K.
Miller,pastor.
Gay, Lesbian, and Affirming Disciples, c/o Firs! Christian Church, 80
SO. 51h St, 95112. 294·2944.
Hosanna Churd'I of Prais-e, 24 N. 5111 St, 95112. 293-()708.
MCC, PO Box 2288, 95109·2288. 279·2711. 65 S. 7!'1 St Sunday,
6::rop.m., Wed, 7~ .m.
New Community ol Faith, 6350 Rainbow Dr., 95129. 253·1408.
~~~hfffi~~!~~~t~~tr~tJ:/ssocia!e . A Welcoming
Valley West Church, 591 W. Hammon Ave., Sle. 215, Campbell, CA
95008{)521. 379-0740.
SAN LEANDRO (510)
San Leancio Community Church, 1395 Bancroft Ave., 954n. ◄83·
~1J·Li~~~~r5~ot"t°'·
MCC of Greater Hayward, 100 Hacienda, 94580. 481-9720. Sun.,
12.30pm.
SAN LUIS OBISPO (80~
MCC of the Cent:a! Coss~ PO Box 1117,.Grover City, 93483·1117.
~1:l~~C:~~~tTJ~o~~,!~f'5;stlr
·
MCC, 230 Liglttouse Ad., San\8 Barbara, 93109-1905. 569·1615.
MCC, PO Box 25610, Ventura, 93002. 643-()502. Sunday,.6:20p.m. at
4949 Foolhill Ad.
SANT A CRUZ (408)
Lavender Road MCC,PO 8aK 1764, 95061. 335-0466.
SANTA ROSA (707)
Ecumenical Catholic Church, 865-0119. Archbishop Mark Shir~au.
New Hope MCC, PO Box 11278, 95406·1278. 526·HOPE. Sunday,
noon al3632ftirway Dr.
STOCKTON (209)
Christian Scieoce Lesbians, Box 7104, 95267-7104. 473·2129.
Delta HSI\1851 MCC, 116W. Wilow SL, 95202·1045. 477·1-440.
WHITTIER (310)
Good Samaritsn MCC, 11931 Washington ~d., 90606·2607. 696-
6213.
Colorado
BOULDER (303)
Gay & Coocemed Ca1holics, st Thomas ACJ.linas University Parish,
904 1 <th SL, 80302. '43-8383.
COLORADO SPRINGS (719)
Pikes Peak MCC, 730 N. TE1on, 80903. 634·3771.
DENVER (303)
Axios: Eastern Orfiodox Christians, 11635 E. Cedar Ave., Aurora,
80012,343-9997.
Christ Chapel, 922 E. 23-'d Ave., 80205-5111.
Evangelicals Reconciled, PO Box 200111, 80220. 331-2839. Color•
aooSp-ngs, (719)488.,')158.
Luflera,s Concerned, 14◄1 Humboldt st, Apl507,80218·2370. 422·
3176.
MCC orlhe Rockies, 980 Clarkson SI., 80218. 86(>-1819.
St Paul's UMC, 1615 ~ SI., 80218. 832·4929.
PUEBL0(719)
MCC, POBo_x 1918, 81002 543-6460.
Connecticut
HARTRlRD~03)
Central Bap5st Church, 457 Main St, 06103. 522-9275. Paul G. Gil·
lespie, pa:stor. A Welcoming and Affirming American Baptist Conge&
lion. Slflport!Jouplor gaysandlestxans.
M-~~1~ f:~IJS1~i:t1~il:·os. Sunday, 10:3011.m. Meels at
IJ'le Community Cente<. Rev. David F. Jarvis, pastor.
NEW HAVEN (203)
MCC, 34 Harrison SL. 06515. 389-6750.
NOANK(203) f:::~ ~~~~ ~~~\ ~~~~~n~~i:i' n~:~:ns-cia~~~ -,
coor,egafoo.
TOLLAND (203)
UCCUGC, 147Virginia Ln, 06084. 872-6537.
VERNON (860)
Ecumenical Catholic Church Koinonia Ministries, 871-0153. Rev.
Dennis Finnegan.
WATERBURY(203)
ln!egify, c/o St. John's Church, 16 Church St, 06702. 482·4239.
District of Columbia
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA (202)
Affimatioo (Methocists), PO B,x 23636, 20026. 667-0008.
Affirmation {Mormoos) PO Box77504, 20013-7504. 828-3096.
Christ UMC, 4111 & I Sis. SN, 20024. 544·9117.
Oig,fy, PO Box 53001, 20009. 387~516.
DunbM.m UMO, 3133 Dunbcrtoo Ave. NW, 20007. 333·7212.
Fait, Temple, 1313 New YOl'k Ave., 20005. 5«·2766.
lntegify, PO Box 19581, 20036'0561. (301)953·3421. Gaysp,ng
Kimt1ip/Sll4, 140020!hSL, r-l>Nlf607,20036.296-2441.
Lutherans Concerned, 212 E. Capitol St., SE, 20001-1036. (703)486-
3567.
MCC ol tie Disciples, 1638 RSI., NW #1, 20009. 387·5230.
MCC,474 Ridge St., NW,20001. 638•7373. SUnday 9, 11a.m., 7p.m'."'
PLGC, c/o Wesminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I St, SW, 20024.
857·2679.
Riverside Baptist Church, 680Eye St. SW, 20024. 554·4330. Michael
Bedsoe, pasl°'.
Washi ngtoo Friends (Quakers), 2111 Florida Ave., NW 20008. 483·
3_:3:10.
Florida
BOCA R•TON (407)
Church of Our Savi°' MCC, 4770-C NW 2nd Ave., 33431. 998-0454.
Sunday, 10:30a.m., 7:30p.m. Rev.John F. Jacobs, past()(.
- CLEARWATER(813)
Free Gatholic Church ol lhe Resurrection, PO Box 3454, 34615. 442-
3867. 303 N. Myrtle Ave.
COCOA(,07)
~~"JJ';'a~~v~ ~~ PO Box 1585, 32923 631-4524.
Plymouth Congegationsl Oiurch, 3400 Devoo Ad, 33133. 44◄-6521 .
Albs oulreach rrinistry. All are welcome.
SL Stephen's Episcopal Parish in lhe Grove, 2750 Mcfarlane Rd.,
33133. 448-2601. F/>X 4'8·2153. Corrjl(eheosive AIDSminis1!y.
DA YT ONA BEACH (904)
HopeMCC, PO Box 15151, 32115. 254-0993,
FORT lAUDERDALE (305)
Church ol Ile Holy Spirit MCC, 3:J> SW 27th St., 33315. ◄62·2004 .
o;g;~, PO Box 22884, 33335. 463-4528.
FORT MYERS (813) ~~:~~~J":er~00
M~~~A~~)Jif ~;~_~Mi~=:
IClJr, pasiX'.
~~
0n~:~:res:~er~i :ar:~: .
1:n:.0
1
20!~:-,~~!5~:i:
REnne Shawver.
GAINESVILLE (904)
Unied Chllch, 1624 NW Sltl Ave., 32603
JACKSONVILLE (904)
St Luke's MCC, 1140 S. Mcl)Jtt Ave., 32205-7551. 389-7726, F/>X
389-7626 .. Sunday, 9am., 11a.m., 7p.m. Rev. Frankye A. WMe, pastor.
PeaceLlz@aol.com.
KEY WEST (305)
MCC, 1215 Petronia St., 33040. 294·8912. Sunday, 9:30, 11a.m.,
Wed., 7p.m. Rev. Steven M. Torrence, pastor.
KISSIMMEE (407) -
Sts. Perpetua & Felicity Ecumenical Catholic Church. 3◄ 8·5440. Fr.
Berna-do Moralis.
MIAMl(305)
Christ MCC, 7701 &N 76th Ave., 33143. 284-1040.
Grace Cnu,Ch of Miami Shores, 10390 NE 2nd Ave., 33138. 758·
6822. John Arny, pastor. Sun., 11 :30a.m., praise and worship. 108m.,
a~esrudy.
0CALA(904)
House of Victory Church, PO Box 2841, 32678-2841. 368-£014. 3820
E.SilverSp<ings Blvd.
0Rl.AN00(407)
lnEgity, POlbx 530031, 32853-0031. 332·2743.
Joy MCC, PO Box 3004, 32802·3004. 894-1081. 2351 S. Ferooeek.
PENSACOLA (904)
Holy Cross MCC, 415 N. Alcaniz Sl, 32501. 433-8528. Sunday.
11 a.m., Wed., 7p.m.
SAINT PETERSBURG (813)
Di(Jlity, PO Box 1337, Pinelas Park, 34664-1337. 238-2868.
King o1 Peace MCC, 3150 5th Ave. N, 33713. 323-5857. Sunday,
10a.m., 7~.m . Rev. Dr. Fred C. Wimams, SJ., pastor.
SARA9'.lTA(813)
Church of ttle Trinity MCC, 7225 N. Lockwood Ridge Rd., 34243-
4526. 355-0847. S.mday, 10un.
lntegity, c/o St. Boniface Church, 5615 Mi!il ight Pass Rd., 342◄2·
1n1.349-5816.
TAMPA(813)
MCC, 2904 COocada Ave., 33629. 839-5939.
Sl John The Ewmge!isl Ecumenical Catholic Church, PO Box
280350, 33682. 979-4940. Fr. Daniel Wiliams.
WEST PALM BEACH !•07)
Oigity, PO Box 3014, T~esta , 33469. 744-1591.641·9944.
lntegi1y, PO Box 14583, No. l'8lm Beach, 33408. 627·1400.
MCC ol the Palm Beaches, 3500 45th St, #2A, 33409. 687·3943.
Sunday, 9:15, 11a.m. Services also in Ft Pierce, 687·3943 and Pt
St.L.ucie,341>-0421.
Georgia
ATLANTA(•o•)
o;g;~, PO Box 14342, 30324. 409-0203.
First MCC, PO Box 8356, 30306-~56. 872•2246. 800 N. Highland
Ave. NE.
rnegity, PO Box 13603, 30324-0003. 642-3183.
lullera,sConCEJned, PO Box 13673, 3032◄. 636•7109.
All Saints MCC, PO Box 13968, 30324. 622·1154.
PLGC, PO Box 8362, 30306. 373-5830.
Souttlern Voice, PO Box 18215, 30316. 876·1819.
UULGC, 1911 Oiff Valley .Way, 30329. 634·5134.
DECATIJR(,OC)
Olrist Covenant MCC, 109HiberniaAve.,30030. 297-0350.
MARETTA(77tl)
ML Calvary Liitilhoose, 546 U11e St, Ajll 8, 30060-2653. 421·9606.
&o. P. Jotnson, pastor.
SAVANNAH (912)
Disciples of the Trinity MCC, P.O. Box 14624, 31 ◄16. 231-1065.
Meets at 321 York St in the Historic Ois~cl Mel Bailey, pastor.
Hawaii
MAUl(808)
New Llberaton MCC, PO eox 347, Puunene. 96784. 879-6193.
0AHU(908)
Affirmation (Mormons), PO Box 75131, Honolulu, 96836-0131. 239-
4995.
Dig1ity, PO Box 3956, Honciulu, 96812-3956. 536-5536.
Ke Ariuenue O Ke .AJoha MCC, .PO Box 12260, Honolulu, 96828·
1260. 942·1027. Sunday, 11a.m., Dole Cannery Sq., 7p.m., 1212 lk1i·
versityAve. •
Rel!g'ous Science, 520Makapuu Ave., Honokllu, 96816. 942-0SOO.
UULGC, 2500 Pai Hwy., Hooolutu,96817. 623-◄726.
Idaho
BOISE(20~
MCC, PO Box 1959, 83702. 342-676-4.
Illinois
ALTON
Christ the Victor Church, 2613 Maxey Sl , AJ!oo, IL 62002·4779.
CHICAG0(312)
Chicago Interfaith Con!Jess, PO Box 60039, 60660. 784·2635.
ChicagoClutines, 3059 N. SoulhJX)rt, 60057. 871·7610.
Christ lhe Redeemer MCC, PO Box 6146, Evans1on, 60204·6146.
(708)262-0099. 933 Olicago Ave.
Church of the Resurrection MCC, 5540 S. Woodawn, 60637. 288·
1 ?35. Worsh~ savice 10:30am. Sun.
Digiily, 909 W. Bel merit Ave., #205. 60057·4408. 296-0780.
Emergence, PO Box 2547, 60690.
Good Shephe<d Parish MCC. 615 W. Weltingloo Ave., 60657·5305.
427•8708. Sonday, 7pm.
Grace Baptist Church, 1307 West Granville Ave., 60660. 262-8700.
Kelly Sprinkle, pastor. A Welcoming and Affirming American Baptist
cc:ogregaion.
Holy Covenanl MCC, 17 W. Mai;Ae. Hinsdale, 60521·3495. (708)325·
· 8488. SUnday, 6p.m.
Jnteg-ity, PO Be»< 2516, 60690. 349-6362.
LutierEns ConcB"ned, PO Box 10197,60610. 342·1647.
PLGC, c/o Lincoln Park Presbyterian Church, 600 W. Fullertoo
Pkwy.,60614-2600. 784•2635.
Shammah Christian Felowship, PO Box 5427, Evanston, 60204.
561-5524.
PAGE 12 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
13. k : , ,; _ th
UULGC, c/o Second Un~arian Church, 656 W. Barry Ave., 60657.
549-0260.
UCCl.,llC, 6171 N. Sheridan Rd, 12701, 60660-2858-338-0452.
EVANSTON (708) .
lake Sb'eet Church, 607 Lake SI., 60201. 864·2181. RobertThompsoo,
pastor. A Welcoming and Affirming American Baptist COO!Jega•
tion.
QUINCY(217)
MCC llliamo, P.O. Box 421, 62306-0421. 224-2800.
ROCK ISLAND (309)
lullerens Coocemed, P.O. Box 3891, 61204·3891.
MCC Quad Cities, 100118fl Ave.,61204-:6132. 786-5655.
SPRINGAUD (217) .
Fai~ Eternal MCC, 304 W. Allen SL, 62704. 525-9597. Sun., 10a.m.
1:'~6rrwcHAMPAKlN (217)
lntegify, 1011 S. Wrii,itSt , Champagn, 61820. 3'4-1924.
PLGC, 809 S. 5th St, Champaig1, 61820.
WAUKBlAN (847)
Frrst Congega!ional lklited Olurch of Chris~ 315 N. Utica SI., 60085.
336-5368. Rev. Ei'adS. Luiz, mirister.AA Open andAffirmingConge- t~j Ufe MCC, 511 S. Lewis Ave., 60085-6105. {708)578·5022.
2031 l>Jgdoa Rd
Indiana
BLOOMINGTON (812) t~~:'?~:~r ,7402-3232 =<l426 .
New World Cllurch, PO Ba< 11553, 4685e. ◄ 56<;570. 222 E. Leith St.
Open Doa Chapel, ~26 Ei'oad#ay, 46607. 7◄4-1199.
Task Force, First Presbyterian Church, 300 W. Wayne St., 46802.
426-7421.
INDIANAPOI..IS (317)
Allimaia, (Metoo<lsls), 33°E 32nd St, 46205. 925-0043.
llignly, PO Ba< 431, 46206. 251-0680.
Jesus MCC, PO Box 441551, 462◄4·1551 . 357-9687.
Iowa
CEDAR RAPIDS (319)
All Faidls MCC, PO Box ◄ 12, 52◄06. 396•9207.
CORALVILLE (319)
lnlegrify, PO Ba< 5225, 522◄1. 35H!263.
DAVENPORT (319)
GLAD Alliance, 2628 Western Ave., 52803·1473. 324-6231.
DES MOINES (515)
Church of the H~ Spirit MCC, P.O. Box 8426, 50301. 284-7940.
Office and worship space localed al 1548 8th St Sun .. 6p.m. Rev.
Paul Whiting, pastor. · .
Word of God Ministries, P.O. Box ◄396, 50333. 270-2709. Meets at
St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 3120 E. 24th SI., Des Moines.
IOWA crrv (319) .
Failtl United aiu rch of Christ. 1609 OeForesl St., 52240. 338-5238.
~~POan~~~.gs~f.egaton.
NASHUA(515)
UCCUGC, c/o CarmEn·Linda Conldin. RR2, 50658. ◄35·5068.
SIOUX crrv 11121
MCC, PO Box381,51102-0361. 25,-8005,
URBANDALE(51~
Urbandale United Church ol Chrisl 7002 Oliver Smith Or., 50322.
276-0625. An Opeo and Affirming Congegstion.
WATERLOO (319)
Church of New Hope MCC, PO Box 34, 50704. 23!4·1981. Meets at
3912 Cedar Hts., Cedar F~ls.
Kansas
iOPEKA (913)
MCC, PO Box ◄776, 66604-()776. 232-6196. SE !nciana Ave al 25111
WICHrrA (3161
First MCC, 156 S. Kansas Ave., 67211. 267-1852.
Wichita Praise andW«shipCenter, PO Box 113◄ 7, 67202. 651-0603.
Kentucky
LEXINGTON (606)
lntEJWeave, 3564 aays MU Ad., 40503. 223·1«8
LOUISVILLE (502)
Aflrmafon (Mettodsts), PO Box 7692, 40257-o692. 635--1402.
Allego, PO Box 403-4, ◄020,(, 581-1829.
Cent:al Presbyterian, 318 W. Kentucky Ave., ◄0203. 58Hi935. Sun·
day, 11a.m.
ChristOlurch Calhe<tal, ◄21 S. 2nd SL,40202. 587•1354.
Conlefence for Cslholic Lesbiails, PO Box ◄778, ◄0204-0778. 895-
0930.
llignil/, PO Box ms, 40204. 58H841.
lnlegity, Clo SL George's Episcopal Church, 1202 S. 26th SL, 40202.
584o658.
Lutherans Concerned, PO Box 7692, 40257-0692 897·5719.
MCC, PO Ehx 32474, ◄0232. 775-6636. 4222 Ban< st.
Phoenix Pising, PO Box 19897, 40259-0897. 966-8357.
PLGC, PO Box 7692, 40257-0692. 897·5719.
Third Lutheran Church, 1864 Frankfort Ave., 40206. 896·6383. Sun·
day, 11a.m. llCX2@ecun-etorg
Trinity Lutheran Church, 1 ◄32 Higlland Ave., 40204. 587-8395. Sun•
day, 9:30a.m., W00.;6:30p.m. PHILGARBER®ecunetorg.
PADUCAH (502)
MCC, PO Box 176, West Pall.Jcah, 42086. 441·2307.
Lnuisiana
BATON ROUGE(504)
?le~~~J~~~:!1643:~~. 383-0450.
SOiidarity House/Batoo Rouge Catholic Worker, 1275 ~urel ~-,
70802. 389-9572, 383-6010. Gay-lriemly Catholic Worker commumty
of hospila!ity~odging lor spousal abuse victims.
PLGC, 2'285 Cedardale, 70808.
COVINGTON (504)
Abundant Grace Ctvistian Felowship, 832 E. Boston St., #3, 70433.
871·9527. Pas!cts Lee Thc,mPf,00 MdYdanci! Yaeger.
UULGC, c/o Unitarian Church, 8470 Goodwood Blvd., 70806. 926·
2291.
LAFAYETTE (318)
MCC, PO Box 92682, 70500. 232-()546. 211 Garfield.
LAKE CHARLES (318)
MCC, PO Box 384, 70602. 439-9869. 510 S.-oadSt
NEW ORLEANS (SO,)
Firsl Jesus Name Church, P.O. Box 58362, 70158·8362. AA Acts
2:38 congegaton.
Grace Felowsh~, PO Box 70555, 70172. 944·9836.
Relationship Therapy Center, 620 N. Carrollton Ave., 70119. 488·
9924. Counseling and support seNices, gay and lesbian.
UCCLA1C, 944 Joyce St., Mtnero, 70072-2306. 341 · 4608.
Vieux Carre MCC; 1128 St Roch.Ave., 70117•7716. 945·5390. Sun·
day, 109=.m. -
~!,S: G~?!n~~owth 'Mission, P.O. Box 2631, 71294. Sr. R. Boyd,
pasb'.
Maine
8ANGOR(207)
Dignify, PO Box 103, Norll SUiiivan, 04684-0103.
PORTLAND (207)
~r~=:~~,04104
lntegify, PO Box 25. 04572
Maryland
ADELPHI (301)
lnterlaith Coalition for Free Slate Justice c/o Paint Elfanch UU
Cha ch, 3215 Powder MiH Rd., 20783. n6-6891.
BALTMORE('10)
The Allemative, PO Box 2351, 21203.(301)235-3'01.
Archdocesan Gay/lesbian OJtreach, 2034 Park Ave., 21217. 728·
2638.
Oig1ily, PO Box 1243, 21203·1243. 325-1519.
First New Covenant Fellowship Church, 5 W. Fort Ave., 21230-1407.
523•n89. Sunday, 2:15p.m. at Dor~th UMC, 527 Scon St.
lntegity, ckJ Emmanuel Church, 811 Cathe<i'at St., 21201. 732-0718.
Lutherans !Ancemed, Bat: 23271,21203-5271. 225-0563.
MCC, 3'01 llkl Yock Rd., 21218. 889-6363.
BETHESDA (3011
0peo Door MCC, PO Box 127, Boyds, 20641-0127. 601·9112. Sun·
day, 10:30a.m., 7p.m. at 15817 Barnesvile Rd.
Massachusetts
BOSTON (617)
□;g,fy, 95 Berk~"! St., #616, 02116. 423·9558.
Support G1oup, ChlJch of the Covenant, 67 Newbury St , 02116. 266-
7480.
lntegity, c/o Christ Church, 12 Quincy Ave., Quincy, 02169. 773·
0310.
MCC, PO Box 15590, Kenmore SO,., 02215. 288·8029.Sunday, 7pm.
at 131 Cambridge SL, Beacon Hill.
CAMBRIOGE(617)
Friends fOf lesbian/Gay Concerns (Quakers), 5 LoogleUow Park.
02138.876-6883.
~~ -~~~~i~ 09ea~:~;~~hPa~\~. ~a~~~:~~ a~~e~~~g
Amefica, Baptisl congegation.
HDLDEN(508)
UCCI..KiC, PO Box 403, 01520. 856·9316.
OSTERVILLE (508)
Healthsigns Counseling Center, 100 Acorn Dr., 02655. -420-0258.
Ameler.vd,ci"ector.
SPRINGFIELD ('13) ~W.1¾lrlttfn 5051, 01101•5051. 737-4788.
Lutherans Concerned, c/o Randall Rice, 108112 Chestnut St. 02154·
0406. 893-2783.
WORCESTER (508)
First Baptist Church, 111 Park Ave., 01609. 755-6143. Barbara Sin·
cl air, associate pastor. A Welcoming and Affirming American Bap~st
ccrigegafon.
Morning Star MCC, 231 Main St., Chllfry Valley, 01611. 892-4320.
Pub: Morning Star Wtb'less .
Unitarian Universatists !or eiiiGay/Lesbian Concerns, PO Box 592.
Wes'rside Stn., 01602. 755-0005.
Michigan
ANN ARBOR (313)
C!r'l!Erbory House, 721 E. Huroo st. #2R, 48104·1526.
Huror1ValleyCommunityChurch, 1001 Gr~ Rd., ◄8105-2896.741·
+~::o~:Jc!·~at~~:,i;{~~a~ts at First Coogegational
Church, 218 N. Adams, Ypsilanti, Ml ◄8197·2507. Sunday, ~.m.
DETROrr(313)
gru~.M~:~eJ:~r◄~~~~200. 369-1901 .
lntegity. c/o Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 18320John R Sl, 48203.
459-7319. =~~a:!:=i~~d:::r~r~~ew~New Generation Youdl Group, PO Box 11499, ◄8211, meets Wed.,
5p.m. at 3CX28 East Grand ftvd., 872•2424.
FUNT 1313)
Oigni~, PO Box 585, 48501.
Redeemer MCC, 1665 N. Chevrolet Ave., ◄8504-3164. 238-6700.
Sunday, 6p.m. Rev. Ulda J. Stooer, pastor. Pub: Sounds ol Aed'aem-
"· FT. GRATIOT (810)
AH Souls' Apostolic Catholic Church, 4653 Desmond Beach, 48059.
385-922◄. Holy Eucharist Sun. 1 ta .m.
GRANORAPIOS(616)
Bethel Christian Assembly, PO Box 6935, 49516. ◄59 ·8262. Rev.
~uce Aoller-P1etcher, pask>I'. Pub: Bethel Beacon.
Oigiity, PO .Box 1373, 49501. 454•9n9 .
Reconciliation MCC, PO Box 1259, 49501. 364·7633.
KALAMA2D0(616)
Phoenix Community Church, PO Box 2222, 49003·2222. 381·3222,
Sunday, Sp.m. at Un~ed Church ol Christ.
LANSING (517)
Oigiity, PO Box 1265, East Lansing, 48826.
Ecclesia. meets al People's Church, 200 W. Grand River. Sunday,
7~ .m.
lntegity, c/o All Saints Church, 800 Abbott Rd., East Lansing, 48823
:!f!i~e o~~~~ c Oiurch, 2800 10th St, 48192·4994. 281-3002.
Minnesota
MARSHALL (507)
lulherans Concernedfnte!Jify, PO Box 3013, 56258. (800)235-3708.
MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL (612) .
Atfrmaticri (Moonons), PO Box 3878, Minneapolis, 55403. 753•3345.
Affirmation (United Methocists). 101 E. Grant St, Minneapolis, 55◄03 .
874-6613,871-3585.
All God's Children MCC, 3100 Park Ave. S., Minneapolis, 55407.
824·2673. Window of Wellness Cixmseling Center offefs posllive
affirming Christian counseling !or homosexuals.
Catholic Pastoral Comminee, 1118 Farrington St., St. Paul, 55117,
4802. 340-0618.
Digiity,PO Box 3565, Mimeapolis, 55403. 827·3103.
lnt~ity, c/o University Episcopal Center, 317 171h Ave SE, Minnea·
pois, 55414. 825·2301.
Judson Memorial Baptist 4101 Harriet Ave. So., Minn., 55409. 822·
0649. D~le K. EOOlondson, pastor. A Welcoming and Affirming Ameri•
can Baplst coogegaticri.
Spirit ol the la kes Community Church, (UCC), 2930 13th Ave. S.,
Minneapolis, 55407. 724·2313. Sunday, 10am., Wed, 7p.m.
Lutherans Concerned, 100 N. Oxford SI., st. Paul, 55104-6540. 866·
8941.
Temple Baptist Church, 3100 Columbus Ave., S, 55407. 823·6268. ¥~:it ~~~C~u~~~J~8.a:x":: ~~~i~i! .~ 1~:~ . Serv·
ices held at 1819 Nicollet Ave. S.
UCCL/GC, 134 W. 43rd St., Minneapolis, 55409.
~;~9si!d~:~c:~~~~~iv$rsity Ave., SE, 55414. A WfJWrigspan
M1msty, 100 N. Oxlord, SL Paul, 55104. 224-3371.
Mississippi
JACKSON (601)
Gay and Les!ian T,0< FO!ce, PO Box 7737, 39284·7737. 37~8610.
Plloen~ CO,lijon, Inc., PO Box 7737, 39284·7737. 373·8610,939-
7181. counseling services. ·
St Stephen's United Community Church, PO Box 76S4i 39284-765-4.
939-7181, 373•8610. Sunday, Sp.m. al Unitarian Church, 4872 N.
Slate St.
Missouri
COLUMBIA (314)
Ch~is1 Ile Kmg Agape Church, 515 Hickman Ave., 65201. 443·5316.
United Covenant Mission Church, PO Box 7152, 65205. 449-719-4.
KANSAS CITY AREA (816)
Abiding Peace Luthe:ran Church, 5090 NE Chouteau Trafficway,
64119. 452·1222. Can,ng for peop!e and Cfeation. Mary Gerken, coo·
tac! per~on. A ~econciled in Christ congegatioo. •
=-~abon (United Methodsts), 5709 Virfjnia Ave., 64110-2855. 363-
GLAO Oisciplesol Chrisl, PO Box 414711, 64141. 432-6139.
kll,gity, PO Box 414164, 64141-4164. 281-0699.
LutleransConcerned, PO Box 413702. 64141
MCC, PO Box 10087, 64111-0087. 931-0750. 3801 Wyandotte.
MCC Johnson County. 12510 W. 62nd Terr., #106, Shawnee Mis·
sion, 66216. (913)631-118".
~f:i.Jerusalem Fellowship Ministries, PO Box 10496, 64111. 763•
ST. LOUIS AREA (314)
AIJ'I"' ChJrch, 2026 Lalayette Ave., 63104. 664·3588.
~rc~P()ro:,,;~f:i-~226863
~00 1120 Dolman St.
Montana
BILLINGS (4°")
Family of God MCC, 645 Howmd, 59101. 245-7066. Sunday, 11a.m.,
Wed.,7p.m.
BOZEMAN(406)
=ation (United Melhodsts), 1000 N. 17!1 Ave., 129, 59715. 586-
GREATFALLS(4°")
Shepherd of the Plains MCC, PO Box 2162, 59403. n 1-1010. 1505
171h Ave., &N, 59404.
Nebraska
OMAHA (402)
MCC, PO Box 3173, 68103. 345-2563. 819 S. 22nd St
PLGC, c/o Evans, 3810 13t'I Sl, #'22, 68107. 733-1360.
Nevada
LAS VEGAS (702)
MCC, 1119 S. Main St., 89104-1026. 38"-2325.
Mustard Seed Minislries, P.O. Box 70053, 89170. Sr. W. Abney, pas•
"'· REl/0(702)
MCCof lhe Sierra, PO Box 21192, 89515-1192. 829-8602.
New Hampshire
New Jersey
ASBURYPAR\(908)
gr~oo~(~\;°7712 m-4031.
~~1~ 8~ge~ Cht1ch, 550 Ridgewood Ad, 07040. 761 ·7321.
TheOasis,Catlectal House, 24 Rec!OI' St, 07102. 621-8151.
NEW BRUNSWICK (908)
~~'&~,'::; ~~i:.~::~~~~. 846-8227.
~~
2
:; 38, 08903-0038. Plb: More Lig,1 Upda1e.
The ~ovng Brott'lerhood, PO Box 556, 07461. 875-4710.
New Mexico
ALBUQUERQUE (505)
Dig'ity, PO Box 27294, 87125. 898-3343.
Kinship, Seventh Day Adventists, PO Box 26012, 87125.
MCC,·2404 San Mateo Pl., NE, 87110. 881-9088. Rev. Dr. Fred C.
~fiams, P.-9Stor. Sun., 10a.m. ~; ;~~~E~~r:s1 Minislries, 134 Quincy, NE, 87108.
~~ ~~:i1i~~~~~~. ~r~~t~1~f~:.nti~~u~~~~:j~ ~C:o
all.
~l~~!t62 DoraOO Dr., 88011. 52H 490. Gey and lesbian spiritu·
SANT A Ft (505)
The Ca\SD{ Connec~on. 551 W. Cordova, S1e. DIE, 875011986-1794.
New York
ALBANY/CAPITAL AREA (518j
Commuoity of St. John Christian Orthodox Church, PO Box 9073,
12209. 346-0207, Fr. Hennc11. F\Jt>: Metancia
Dignity, PO Box 11204, Loudonville, 12211-0204. 436·8546.
Emmanuel B:3ptist Church, 275 $!ate St., Albany, 12210. 465·5161.
Roy A. Donkrn. pastOI'. A Welcomrng and Affirming .American Baptist
Corgega,on.
~n
1
t~ity, c/o Grace & Holy Innocents, 498 ainton Ave., 12206. 465·
Lighthouse Apostolic Church, PO Box 1391, Schenectady, 12301·
1391.372-6001. &o. W. H. Carey,paslor.
MCC, 275Sta!e St., 12210. 785-7941.
BUFFALO (716)
Digiity, PO Box 75 81icott Sin., 14205. 833-8995.
t:tty , c/o Church of tie Ascension, 16 Linwood Ave., 14209. 884-
Pink Triangle Christian Felowship, PO Box 722 Ellicott Stn., 14205·
0722. 845-6971. Pub: Spritwcxks
GENEVA (315)
PLOC, PO Box 278, Dresden, 14441-0278. 536-n 53.
UCCL/GC,333Argmne Dr., 14217·2417. 877-0459.
HAMPTON BA VS (516)
Good Shepherd American C!ilholic Church, P.O. Box 725, #10 Failh
Or., 11946. 723·2012.
NEW YORK CITY AREA
8<0!11(718)
St. Mn's Church, 295 st Ann's Ave., 10454. 585-6325.
Brooldyn(718)
Digmy, PO Box 021313, 11202·1313. 769<l<l47.
First Unitarian Church, Lesbian, Gay, asexual Concerns Committee,
50 Morroe Pl., 11201. fl24-5466.
Long bland (516)
~~- 10! AIDS Care, Inc., PO Box 2859. Huntinglon ~-. 11746. 385-
C!rcti cl More l..iglt E3oK203, B"ookhaven, 11719-@'l3. 286-0542.
~rvt•~l:M~ ti~:~~ Mu~:'s'.a11~ftJBJj~·Sl.ony &o~ , PO
Box 602, S1ony li'ook, 11790. 399-◄967.
International F~ee Catholic ChurcM3ood Shepherd Church PO Box
438, Centro 10,p, 11122. 723-0348. Rev. Msg. RobertJ. Alhl..,, pas-
"'· M,_nhettor>'New York City,,... (212)
Axtos: Eastern & OrtlOOOx Christians, PO Box 756, Village Sin.,
~~~ 989-6211. Second Friday, Sp.Jn., Community Cenler, 208 W.
Christian Science Group, c/o 444 3rd Ave., #4, 10016. 532·8379.
Di!l'lify, PO Box 1028 Old Chelsea~ .. 10011. 818·1309. P\Jb:OJt•
lo~ .
Di!l'lity, PO Box155HDR~ .. 10150. 866•8047.
Evangelicals Concerned, 311 E. 72nd st . #1G clo Or. Ralph Blair
10021.517"3171.N>:Aerord,Review '
~
7
a~~
7
L:l:Man OUalrers, 15 AutlerfOl'd Pl .. 10003-3971. 475-0195.
Gar, Lesbian & Affirming Disciples Alliance, clo AJ!en Harris, 1453A
Lexm~on Ave., 10128·2506. 289-3019.
lnle!J,ity, PO Box 5202, 10185-0043. (718)720-3054 Pub:Oufook
Judson Memcria1 Church, 55 Washington Sep.Jere So., 10012. ◄n-
0351. Peter Laarmon, pastor. A Welcoming and Affinning American
Baptist cong-egation.
Lesbian and Gay communit)' 5ervices center, Inc., 208 W. 13th St,
10011. 620-7310. Pub: Center Stage, COOier Voice.
M~dson Avenue Baptist Olurch, 30 East 31st St, 10016. 685-13n.
M1ch.ael B. East~lng, pastOI'. A Welcoming and Alfinning American
Bap1isl congega1ion.
Maranalha: R!ver~dets fOI' lesbianJGay Concerns, c/o Riverside
Ch.Jrch, 490 fiverside {)'., 10027.222-5900.
MCC, 208 W. 131h St., 10011. 242·1212. Sunday, 10a.m. af 208 w.
131h st , 7p.m. at 135 W. 4ttl st
PLGC, 740 Wes1 End Ave., 10025. 866-3580.
Park Avenue Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), 1010 Park Ave.
at ~5ttl St., 1'?')28. 288-3246. A vibrant Cfeative, anddverse coogero~~
ck~~:Z1~ ~ .e:::n1
9o~i ~O:J ~~<;4s~:~:88 -324s.
Fourth Friday, 7p.m.
Riverside Cturch, 49J Riverside C:X ., 10027. 222·5900. Brenda Stiers.
~=~ ~'!"~~~ Churdl, 236 W. 73rd St, 10023. an-a221. Sunday,
11a.m.MaeT9'1tchurch.
~~~~~~dventist Kinship International, PO Box 20595, 10025.
Temple of Miraculous Pefqeptioo, 237 W. 100 St, 10025.222·2874.
~~-l.K3C, clo Craig Hoffman, 1453A Lexington Ave., 10128. 289-
Unity Fel .. ship Ct<Jrch, PO Box 2708, 10008·2708. (718)636-5646.
Wa!tungtQ"I Sq.we UMC, 13.5 W. •lh St, 10012. m-2528.
~=r~~~er itr1Church, 165W. 861hSt., 10024.362·48.90.
~~e~~r~at~;~~~g,~~lox 4154, College PCMnt,
Unitan~ Umversahst Church, L~an. Bisexual & Gay Concerns
~=~~i1r,AS1Ave ., Flushing, 11355.353-3900.
lntegity, PO Box 2038, White Plains, 10602-2038. 949-4367. Pub:
The Grapevile.
NIAGARA FALLS(716)
Rainbow Community Apostolic Fellowship, c/o Roberts, 456 4ttl st,
Apt 6, 14301. 284-7044. B'o. C. Rtt>em, pas\01'.
Pl.A TTSBURGH (518)
St. Mary's E~meoical Calholic Church, PO Box 159, Chazy, 12921.
493·3272 (vocce and FAX), Rev. Fr. Micha a' R. Frost
POUGHKEEPSIE(914)
~~~1\fy&\'2 Box 356. la!J'enge,ille. 125'M356. 72◄-3209.
Community Christian Fellowship, PO Box 68005, 14618. 234·9776. A
place o( P!'ayer, praise and Bible sllct/ IOI' gay and lesbian Evangelical
Chns1ians.
~~~:,~i~;~fJ:~ch .~7~~~ ·:.~-~-458-5765. Pela-
Ca~man, pastor, A Welcoming md Affirming American &ptist conge-
~!~~pty Closet, 179 A'dantic Ave., 14607-1255. New York State's
~t~~J~:'r.J:'~SL. 14605. 271-8478.
PLGC, c/oCarta-, 111 Milbun St, 14007-2918. 271•7649.
SYRACUSE(315)
May MemOl'ial Unitarian Universalists for Lesbian & Gay Concerns
3800 E. Genessee St., 13214. 424-7628. '
Ray ol Hope MCC, PO Box 6955, 13217. 471-6618. Sunday, 6p.m. al
819 Madison st
UTICA(315).
Oigiity, PO Box 352. 13503. 738-0599.
WANTAGH (516) ~t~R~o5(~f r· 11193. 1a1-5942.
St. Anthony of PaOOa Ecumenical Catholic Church, 539-4323. Fr.
Tom Sterner.
North Carolina
ASHEVILLE (704)
·community Connections, PO Box 18088, 28814. 258·3260. Newspa•
per~ !he Southern Appalachian gayAesbic11 community.
MCC. PO Box 2359. 28802·2359. 259·3055.
CHARLOTTE (704)
Charlotte lnterfaittl Network for Gayh.esbian Equality, 7209 E. Harris
8,lvd., #169, 28227. 536·9348. Garnett E. Phibbs, contact per so,.
Lutherans Concerned, PO Box 9562, 28299. 334·2367. Pub: The
Clarion
MCC, 4037 E. Independence Bvd., #726, 28205·7375. 563-5810
Metolina Swithboa-d, PO Box 11144, 28220. 535-6277.
New Life MCC, PO Box 221404, 28222. 343-9070.
GREENSBORO (910)
Lutheran Church ol lhe Resurrection, 6720W. Fnendy Ave., 27410.
292-4984. Rev. Mark Johnson, paslOI'. Sun .. 10a.m.; Fri .• 7p.m. Holy
Communion 5efVed at all services. ELGA.
f:;i~:!~u~c~~~1~~~~· ~-;~~O:p.~.~;:.·. ie: ~ ~~~ i.; ~tKd~ro~tev. Christine Oscar, pastor.
MGp, c/o Unitarian Chtrdl, 109111h Ave., NW, 28601. 324-1960.
TRIANGLE AREA (919)
Affirmabon {United Methodists), PO Box 5961, Aaleig1, 27650. 850·
9380.
Digni~. PO Box 51129, Dumam, 2m 7·1129. 493-8269.
lntegnty. c/o, Church of the Good Shepherd, PO Box 28024, Aaleigl,
27611.571-1792.
~ar:t~sCOn cemed, PO Box 665, Apex, 27502. 387-0824. Meets in ·
Pullen Memorial Baptist Church, 1801 Hillsborough St, Raleigh,
27&l:5. 828-oo97. M. M.ahanSiler,Jr.,pastcr.
~f ,g
2\~~i:~ ;~~~ -IOI' Gay and lesbian Eq.iality, PO Box
St Jchn~ MCC, PO Box 5626, Rofeig,, 27650. 834-2611. Sunrt,y,
11a.m .• 7:1 Sp.m., 805 Glenwood Ave.
~~a:~v; .~::;, ~ik?.>~~2
~/o Unitarian Fellowship, 3313
WILMINGTON (910)
GROW Community Sefvice Corp., PO BoK 4535, 28"06. 675-9222.
Yooll ~each : ALNE 10! gay, lesbian, ~sexual youlh. ~;ti~i• 7
~~-~-26 Markel St., S1e. 170, 28◄03. Sancbla,y: 507
WINSTON-SALEM (910)
Lesbian & Gay Concerns Task FOl'ce, Unitarian Universalist F~lowshp,
2873 Robirllood Rd, 271 .. . 723-7633.
~~~.~j1~~~~(~f:7~~~ay and Lesbian Equality, PO Box
Ohio
AKRON(2l6) ·
MCC, 1215 KenmO!e Bvd, 44314. 745-5757. Pub: Beacon of Lig,l
Cascade Cornm1Y1ity Chll'ch, 1190/1196 nman St., 44306. n3-5298.
Sunday, 2p.m. Pub:Cascade Newsletter.
~~ans Concerned, PO Box 67114, Cuyahoga Falls, 44222. 928-
ATHENS(614)
UCCUGC, 18 N. College St, 45701. 593-7301.
CANTON (216)
~~ .anuel Fellowship Olurcn, PO Box 35604, 44735·5604. 376-
CINCINNATI (513)
Di!l'li~, PO Box 983, 45202. (006)561·9014.
~~t~~=~ ·•~~(~:f~•~i!~~2!~·TaflRd 45219
\ ~i-,5~~:.1-2664. Rev. Dr. Harold G. Porter, pastOl':•A More
~~~~gtfi~ E. Holister St, 45219. 241-8216. Pub: Visions.
AComnion Bond, PO Box 91853, 44101. Jehovah'sWiilesses
Church of the Redeemer United Mellocis~ 2420 So. Taylor Rd: ae - ;e1;.~.~•~~ !~:,~4~;-.'~1~~~ing Congegalon. '
Emmanuel MCC, 100l4 lctain Ave.,44111·5429.651-0129. Sunday
10:45a.m. Pti>: Good News '
PLGC, 841 Engewocd, 44121. 382-0507.
COLUMBUS(614)
Oirist.U~ted Evangelical Church, PO Box 141264, 43214. 297'6317.
Evangel)Cal.s Con~ed , PO Box 360491, 43236. 235-GAYS.
First Umtanan Urvversalis1 Church. 93 W. Weisheimer 43214 267•
4946. Sunday, 11a.m. • ·
Friends !or Lesbian & Gay Concerns (Quakers) 488-2096 ~:or:~.:,~ Group, c/o Newman een\er, 64 W .. Lane Ave.,
MCC, PO Box 10009, 43201-0509. 294-3026. 1253 N. Higi St. Sun•
day'.10:30a.m: Pub:lhe Beaca, News
~~-of lhe Rivers Community Church, PO Box 10333, 43201. ~86-
Sblewall Union Reports, !:bx 10814, 43201-7814.299-7764. u=c. 29,.9910, 488-2006.
0AYTON(513)
Commun(ty Gospel Church, PO Box 1634, 45401. 252·8855. Spirit
filled, Chnst centered. Meets Thl.ll's .• 5p.m., &.m. 10a.m. at 546 Xenia ~r·t.8fo00eo8:~.~~~2~~~C6.
MZc, PO Box 4021, 45401, 228·4031. 1630 E. 5th St sun.,
10:30a.m. .
GRANVILLE (614)
First Baptis.t Church, 115 W. Broa~ay , 43023·1179. 587-0336.
=~~ l=~ ·r., pastor. A Welcoming and Affirming.American
UMA(419)
~ost Holy Redeemef Ecumenical Catholic Church, 228-7344. Fr.
Jimmy Tabler. •
MANSFE.0(419)
Center br Pastoral Ca-e, 3180 Germc11 Chll'ch Act, 44904. 756-29n,
~4~:~ .AXn4-9805. 9.mdaylibJrgy, 10:15a.m.Past01'alcoon~
ol!ERUN (216)
1~ 1Uii\'.\'&i~~;i 44074-0387. 775-3341.
Comm~ity ~urch of Truth, PO Box 3005, 45501-3005. 325-7691. fi~~14~,"e metaphysics and practical Christianity.
Digiity, PO eox 1388, 43603. 242-9057.
~jgrity , c/o Sl. Mark's Church, 2272 Collingwood Blvd., 43620. 244·
·MCC, Good Samarilan Parish, 720 W. Delaware Ave -13620 244·
2124. Sunday, 11a.m. " ·
Oklahoma
OKLAHOMA CITY (405)
Church of Christ IOI' Gays, PO Box 75481, 73147. 528-8417.
DiJ11itynn1eg-ify, PO Box 25473, 73125. 755-9175.
:~1~.ds Meeting (Quakers), 312 SE 251h St., 73129. 632-7574, 631·
~ J~~~ .,r .~~T;! _Catholic Church, PO Box 25425, 73125.
TULSA(918)
Dig1ily.lnte11ity, PO Box 1271, 74101-1271. 298·4648.
MCC, PO Box 4187, 74159. 838·1715. 1623 N. Maplewoo:l.
St.Jer~e Ecu!f1enical Catholic Church, 742-7122. Fr. Rick Hollingswort,.
1ckraohn1a@aol.com, stariott@aol.com.
Oregon
EUGENE (503)
Oer!1,' & Laity Concerned. 458 Blair Bvd., 97402. 485-1755
~CC, 1414 Ki~caid St., 97401·3737. 345-5963. Sunday, 4p.m. at
First Congegitional Church, Condon Chapel, 23rd & Harris Sts. Pub:
Corrmon GrO!J'ld: Rev. Marg.iertte Saogg"e, pastor.
PORTLANO (503)
Affrmatioo (Unied Mellcxists), PO Box 12673. 97212. 234·8854.
.America~ Friends ~ce Committee, Gay & Lesbian Prog-am, 2249
E. Ellrnside, 97214. 230-9430. CcntactOan.
Di!l'lify, PO Box 6708, 97228-6708. 295-4868.
Evangelicals Concerned, PO Box 40741, 97240-0741. 232•7451.
lnlegity, cfo AFSC, 2249 E. Burnside, 97214. 774-1064. Put>: St.
Aetreds Messenger.
~~!~:; .Peace Community UMC, 2116 NE 18th Ave., 97212· 4609.
MCC, 1644 NE 24th, 97232. 281-8868.
Reach Out! (Former Jehovah's Wilnesses), PO Box 1173, Clecka·
mas, 97015.
SisterSprit, PO Box 9246 , 97207. 294-0645. Pub: Spiri\ed Women
Resource Guide
ROSEBURG(503)
MCC, P.O. Box ◄55, Dillard, OR 97432-0◄ 55.
SALEM(503)
Di!l'lity, PO Box 532, 97308. 363-0006.
~eel Spiri1 MCC, PO Box 13969, 97309, 363-6618. 1◄ 10 121h S1.,
Pennsylvania
ALTOOHA(814)
Gay, Lesbian & Bisexual Spmual Fellowship, 1805 8ttl Ave., 16602.
949-58.52. Pub: Pieconciliaton
aWYN(610) .
Pll!J'inl F~l .. slli~Church, P.O. 8oX4306, 19063. 237·1387. Mee~
~~ (~~;i•rfelp!l,a Airport Comfort Inn.
lnl,gity, PO Box 1782, 16507-0782. 774-0903.
GLEN ROCK (717) .~';;',~I~r,11
~tholic Owtch, ~7. Rick Nare, contact persoo.
Dig,ity, PO Box 379, 18"27. 829-1341.
HARRISBURG (717)
Di!l'lity, PO Box 297 Fedor~ Square 5'1., 17108.
MCC of the Spiri~ PO Box 11543, 17108. 231H367. Pub: Spirit
Wings
LEHIGH VALLEY (610)
Grace Covenant Fellowship, 247 N. 10th St, Allentown, 18102. 740-
0?~7. Sunde¥, 10:45a.m. &yon Rowe, pastor. Thom Riner, music
m1mster. Serving the Lehi~ Valley.
~~~· ~ :i; 8J~r:v~\~:;Jn~~~.8
11~~~~ ·8102. 439-
8755. Sullda.y, 7p.m. at Unitarian Coor ch, 701 lechllJWeki Ave. BeJh.
lehem. Pub: Valley Star. '
PHILAOB.PtilA (215)
Di!Ti~, PO Box 53348, 19105. 546-2003. Pub:The lndepemfeoce
ln1'9'1~, c/o Holy Trirify Church, 1904 Walnu1S1., 19103. 382-0794.
MCC, PO Box 8174, 19101-8174. 563-6601. Sunday, 7pm. at 2125
Chestnut St Pub: The Bell Ringel".
UCCL.,IJC, PO Box 6315, 19139. 72◄ ·1247. ~£i::~. Univorsalist Church, Stanton Ave. & Gorgas lrl., 19150.
PITMAN(717)
~~~~~ r.fit• AO 1, Box HG, 17~ . Gay harmonists.
A~r~ation(Untted Melhocists), Box 10104, 15232-0104. 683-5526.
Di!l'lily, PO Box 362, 15230. 362·4334.
In~ . PO Bax 5619, 15207-0619. 421..S747.
lulheransCoocemed, PO Box 81866, 15217-0866.521-7746. ,
MCC, 4836 Ellsworth Ave., 15213. 683-2994.
PLGC, PO Box 9022, 15224-0022.
WAYNE(610)
Central Baptist Church, P.O. Box 309, 19087. 688-0664. Marcia Bail·
ey,_co-pastor. A Welcoming and Affirming American Baptist Congega1ion.
Rhode lsland
PROVIOENCE (401)
Dgiity, PO Box 2231, Pawtucket, 02861. 727-2657.
St Petef's&St.Anti'ew'SEpiscopal Churdl, 25 PomonaAve.,'02909-
5255 .. 272•9649. Rev. Jan Nunley, rector and co-convenor of
lnteg1t)r/Rhode lsl~od. ~e are a -r~ coog'98tion• of Christians
from all. ~elks of life, will an active lntegity chapl!lf, healing and
AIDS ministry. Se habla Espanol.
~~~· 15 Oak Ave., Riverside Con~egational Church, 02915.
South Carolina ,
CHARLESTON (8"3)
MCC, 2010 Hawthome D., #10, 29-118. 747-6736. Mary M. Moore,
pasl'.Jr.
COLUMBIA(803)
Lullet:ansCQncemed, PO Box 8828, 29202•8828. 738-1899. Meets at
728 Ptdc:ens St. on USC campus.
MCCColumbia, P.O. Box 87,53, 29202. 256-2154. Meets al 1111 Bel·
leview St, #2.
GREENVILLE (8"3)
MCC, PO Box 6322, 29606-6322. 233-0919. Sun., 7p.m. at 37 E. Hill·
cresl Rev. Mick Hinson.pastor.
South Dakota
LAKE PRESTON (60S)
UCCUGC, RI. 1, Box 76, 57249. 847-4623.
SIOUX FALLS (605)
St Francis& SI. Clare MCC, PO Box 266, 57101-0266. 332~3966.
Tennessee
CHATTANOOGA (615)
lntegit)r, PO Box 4956, 37405. 756-6225
MCC, Po Box 80183, 37411. 892·2138 .. SUn., 7p.m. at3224 Navajo
JOHNSON CITY (615)
MCC ol lhe Tri Cities, PO Box 1612, 37605-1612. 926·4393.
KNOXVILLE (615)
MCC, PO Box 2343, 37901-2343. 521 ·6546.
MEMPHIS (901)
660
1ntegrity c1o Calvary Episcopal Church, 102 N. 2nd St., 38103. 525-
2.
NASHVILLE (615) •
Oayspring Fellowship, 120-B S. 11th SL. Box 68073. 37206. 227•.
1448.
lnteg~· PO Box 121172, 37212-1172. 383·6608.
~~l ,Au~:i~~0406, 37206·0406. 262-0922. &rn., 1 ta.m., 7p.m .•
Texas
~~v";~~~/~ope Community Church, 1342 No. 41h SL. P.O. Box.
2961,79604. 677-7955. Sm., 11,.m.
Crisis Counseling and Resoorce Center for Sexual Min0<ities, 1902
~~s~~~~ SI., 79602. 676-0613. Crisis phone line and counseling
Exodus MCC, PO Box 2473, 79604. 672•7922. 904 Walnut St
AMARILLO (806)
MCC, PO Box 1276, 79105. 372-4557. 2123 S. Polk St
ARLINGTON (817)
Xtn~,~~2r Truman·&., 76011. 265·~454. Sun., 10:45a.m.
:;ation (United Methodists), 7403 Shoal Creek Blvd., 78757. 451-
AU 5a1nts Ecumenical Catholic Church, P.O. Box 91597, 78709-
1597. 280-9151. The Rev. Robert 0. Hall, frrobert@aol.com,
cio~elt>a@aol.com.
Di!l'lily, PO Box 2866, 78768. 467·7908.
lnlegity, PO Box 4327, 78765-4327. 462•0977.
Joan Wakeford Ministries, Inc., 9401 Grouse Meadow Ln., 78758·
6348. 835-7354.
PAGE 13 SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Resource Guide
CORPUSCHRISTl(512)
MCC1, 315 GraigS t, 711404·33380B. 2·8225s. un., 10,.m., Wed,.
i~S'FORT WORTHA REA( 214)
Affirmatio(Un nitedM elhodsts)B, ox4 83B2, Watauga,7 6148·0382.
~~=~nited Melhodst)s, PO Box1 91021, Dallas7, 5219. 528·
4913.
AgapeM CC, POB ox1 5247, FortW orth7, 6119·024.7 (817)535-5002.
6~~!7Joa~~~~ · c:1~6~~1:~0;e~D~all-as,, 75235.
351-1901.
sun.,9a.m, .11a.m.
Digity, PO Box1 90133, Dalas, 75219-01332. 26-4101.
~i¥r1~:~·61hu'~:~f6y~~~~~:~1:~:ias, 75204.
827-508.8 •A homef or everyh eart"s ervingI ha Dallasl esbiana nd
fiJi~°';~~,:r~f90~86i9.', ~Da6llas~,7 5 219.5 21-5342, ext 233.
Gaya ndl esbianB aptist.s
lni:!gilyP, OB ox1 90351D, allas7, 5219-03515.2 0-0912.
SillJllH SIVesMt inistriesP,O B ox1 9051f, ~5219-051._51 2().6655.
WhiteR ockc ommunitCy hurch7,' l2 TenrnsoMo emoriaAld .,7 522.3
285-28313. 20-0J43su. n. . 900am. . 11a .m.J .-ryC ool, <pas1or.
DENTON(817)
HarvesMt CC5, 900S .S temmon7s6, 2054. 97·4020S.u n,. 10:30a.m.,
6pm.
~g~:~1 ;~%
;~,; Church, 501 E. 18lh al Cdumbia. 8'80·9235.
~~n ~~}~~ ~~~s~crk CK..n oag.2011. 991-6766.
Di!llilyP, O Box6 6821m, ~1. 880-2872S. al, 7:JOpma. t 1307
};~~•~ ~itarianU niVersaHChsut rchG, ayitesbiaTna skF orce, 5200
Fam in St, 77~-5899. 526-5200.
HoustonM issionC hurchP, O Box1 6M3ar3sh all7, 7006.5 29-8225.
Sun.,1 0:30a.mR.e vR. oberLt cartB',p astor.
lnEgity,P OB ox6 60087, 7266-60084.3 2-0414P.u b:M arginaNl ote.s
KingdomC ommunitCy hurch6, 14 E.1 9thS t, 77008.8 62-75337.4 8·
~~·:;~~1 ::~1e91c9O teicoailrn,7 7,0 07-76368.6 1-91◄9. NJ:
The Good News
St. RaphaelE cumenicaCl atlolicC hurch,8 90-617.D eaconG ary
Whea\ skyborgl!30111aol.can.
LONGVIEW(9 03)
Church Wit! A Vision MCC, PO Box 1287, 75606-1287. 753-1501.
Son., 10 a.m.a t 420 E.C ottons t.
~~?Ji:S~t. . 78407.7 92·5562.S un., 11,.m. . 7p.m. Rev.
RenaeP hiMippsa, storP. ub:V isio.n
Lesbian.lGaAyl lianceI, nc. POB ox6 47◄ 6, 79◄64·◄ 74 6. 791-4499.
Pub: Lambda Times
MlllAN0(915)
Holy TrinityC ommunityC hurch,1 607s . Main,7 9701. 570-4822.
Rev. GleonE .H ammetpt,a stor.
SANA NTONIO(2 10)
MCC,1 136W.W oodawn7, 82017. 3-4--0048.
RiverC ity LivingC hurch2, 02H olland7, 82127. 34--0377.
~vi:J:>~ommunity Ctiurch1, 390<C oonfyR d.1 93, 757035. 81•
6923.P astorD onnaA . Carr¢e!t.
WACO(B17)
MCC,P O Box2 20-437,6 712. 752-53;3~1
WICHITAF ALLS( 817)
MCC. POB ox8 09-i,7 63076. 96--2668.
Utah
LOGAN(S-01)
MCC,P OB ox4 285,8 43237. 50-5026S.u n.,1 1a.m.
SALT lAKE CITY (801)
Sa~ed Li!tlt~ ChnstM CC8, 23s . 600 E,8 4102-35075.9 6-0052.
Vermont
BURLINGTO(N80 2)
Di!llify3, O Jeensbu~R d, 05403-5752.
MCCP, O Box2 010,0 54078. 99-4442.
UnitarianU nivel'sa!istls0 <G ay & LesbianC oncerns1, 52 PearSl t.,
054018. 62-5630.
ESSEX JCT
ResurrectioAnp ostolicM inisbiesP, O Box 162,0 5452. Sr. Michelle
M.T homasp.a stor.
MONTPELIE(8R0 2)
!ntegity,c /o ChristE piscopaCl h~!;n,6 4 StateS t, 05602-2933.
Virginia
ALEXANDR(I7A0 3)
Affirmabo(Mn orrronsP),O B ox1 9334,2 2320-9343. 828-3096.
St Cyril'sE asternC hristianF ellcwship6, 038R ichmondH wy., #301,
22303~. 7896. "ByzanMcet llistianc ommuni.t•y
ARLINGTO(N7 03)
Oi!J)ityP, OB ox1 0037, 22210. 912-1662.
FALlS CHURCH(7 03)
Affirmatio(nM ormonsP),O B ox1 93342, 2320-~. 828-3096.
MCC,7 245L eeH wy, .220465. 32-0992&.I I., 6pm. at FairfaxU nitarian,
2 7H0un9t!! 'M illR d. Oakto.n
TelosM inislries(B aptistsP), O& x 3390,2 2043~. 2680.
NORFOLK(S O.)
Di!llilyP, O Box4 34,2 35016. 25-5337.
NewL ife MCC,P O Box 1026, 23501-10268.5 5-845.0 1530J ohnston'sA
d. 51!n., 10:30a.m6.,: 30p.m., Wed., 7:30p.~.a t 1530Johns!
onsRd.
UnitarianU niversalistfso r Lesbian& GayC oncerns7, 39Y armouth
St, 23510. 627-5371s.u n. . 11.,m.
RICHMOND(80·4 )
Affrimation( UnitedM elhocists)P. O Box 2~15, 23260-561.5 746-
7279.7 00W.F ranklinS t.
~tG~::~~i~~•~e~~/~f&~fari1,40.
ROANOK(E7 03)
BlueR idgeL ambdaP ress,P OB ox2 37,2 400.2 890-3184.
Lesbian & Gay Calhdics & E~scopalians, PO Box 4183, 24015.
774-0068.
MCCo l the Bue RidgeP, O& lx 204952, 4018. 366-083.9 Sun.,3 p.m.
at lklilaritrCt hurch2, 015G ranOOR d. SN. Pub: BueR idgeB anner.
VIRGL'IIBAE ACH(S O.)
All God'sC hildrenC ommunitCyh urch~. 85S . IndependencBel vd.•
#108,2 34524. 99-7096.
WIWAMSBU~ (804)
Foundationosf StoneM ITTistr,! e1s49N elsonD r., 23185.2 29-083.2
Teachings, embarsr,e treatsr,e l/ivals.
Washington
BELLINGHAM
An gos Among Us MCC, P.O. Box 4389, 98227·4389.
EVERETT
Ne\¥C reationM CC1, 11242 9thD rS E,9 8~·5228.
MOUNTV ERNON(2 06)
MCC,P O Box2 05n, Seallle9, 8102.3 25-6n5.
OLYMP1A(206)
EtemaLl i!7llM CC,2 07N .W ashingtcn9,8 501.
RICHlAND(5 09)
Riv" ol Li~ MCCP, O Box1 678, 99352-00595.◄ 4·9689.
ShalomU CC,5 05 McMurray9, 9352. 943-3927O. pen anda ffirming
cong.
SEATTLE(2 06)
Affirmation(M ormons.)P,O Box2 3223, 98102.8 20-5729P. ub:T he
~a~~ted Methcx:ists2)1, 15N .◄ 2nd, 98103.
Digni~B, ox2 03259, 8102-132. 5325-731.4
Evange1clatsConcemePd,O E lox2 01899, 8102-11899.3 2-340. 1
Grace Gospel Oiapel, 2052 NW 64th St, 98107. 784-8495. Sun.,
11a.m.,7 p.m.. Wed.7, ~.m. Jerryl a chinap, asbr. ,
~~~~t~k~,:i~f~~2421. Rev. Cheri L St.orc/1•
manp, astorc. anf Ofs erviceti mes.a ndl ocations.
OvertakeM CCP, OB ox6 612, Bellevue, 980088. 85--041 ◄. 12700S E
32ndSI.
Seattle First Baptist Church, 111 Harvard Ave., 98122. 325-6051.
Rcxtiey A. Romney.pastor.
SeatfeG ayN ews7, 04E .P ike,9 81223. 2◄-◄297.
UCCLJGC3,1 718lhA va.'E.1 4,9 8112-513. 23£9-3027.
Unitarianle sbians& Gays,6 5563 5thA ve.N E, 98115.◄ 83-0345.
SPOKAN(E5 09)
Affirmation(U nitedM ethodists)3, N. 9th St , Cheney9, 9004. 299-
2500.
EmmanueMl CC,P O Box 769, 99210. 838-'0085.S un.,1 0:30a.m.,
7p.ma. t 307W.◄ th Ave.
UnttariaOn !urch,3 21W .8 th, 992046. 24-4802.
TACOMA(206)
HillsideC ommurifyC hurch2, 508S . 39tl St , 9S4094. 75-23881
MCC,2 150S .C ushmanA ve,. 96-405-343287.2 -238.2
VANCOUVE(R20 6)
MCCa lhe Genie ShejlhefdP, O Box5 094, 986682. 53-8401.
West Virginia
MORGANTOW(3N0 4)
Free<b1F1e llow!ilip, POB ox1 5522, 65052. 92-778.- 4
Wisconsin
FOX VALLEY {414)
Angelo f HopeM CC.P OE lox6 72,G reetBi ay,5 43054. 96-868.8
MADl9JN (608)
FirstB aptisCt hurch5, 18N orthF ran~inl Ave., 537~5. 233-1~. Alan
Newtona, ssociatep astorA. Welcoming andA ffirminAg me nca n Baptist
congegadon.
~fui~fk~:~X ~·:~j.~ l~~~:J.Universitj Ave.
SUPflllOR(715)
Connect, Box 130◄, 54880. 394·9467. Outreach to lesbian, gay,
bisexu~t.r ansgender,e thdeirf amiliesa ndworksite.s
MILWAUKEE(414)
Di!llityP,O Box5975, 3201.'4 4-7177.
l.u1hera·nCsonceme,d POB ox1 6765, 3201-1676◄8.1 ·9663. ~.~':~~·.~~~?:2~~:/7.3 -1991
HealingJo
·THE FLOOR OF HEAVEN·
Guided meditation and music for healing and reston,tion with vocals
by The Rev. Deanne Aime and music by James Bass. The power to
heal lies within the spiritual and psychological nature of every person.
Tap into your healing power and potential through the process of
spiritual deepening as you experience guided meditation .
Tf,e Floor ( if Hear<'//, SI~. rnsscltc
01mm l'RO.\! SI:("()'.';]) STO'.';E PRESS.
SEf, !':\GE 22.
PAGE 14 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Distribution of Second Stone in some
communities is sponsored by our
Outreach Partners. We invite you to
visit them for worship. _.,
DAYTON.OHIO
CAmmunity
liAspel
l,;hurch
"Gay positive, people
friendly House of
Prayer for all people!"
Sunday, 10 a.m.
546Xenia.Ave
Call (513)252 -8855
LONG BEACH. CALIFO.RNIA
FIRSTC ONGREGATIONACLH URCH
LONG BEACH
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
An Open and Affirming Congregation
We welcome you to worship
in a nurturing environment.
241 Cedar Ave • Long Beach CA 90802
(310) 436-2256 • Fa~ (310) 436-301!!
http:/ /users.aol.com/revmek/index/html
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNI
Mailbtg Address:
Post Office Box 14462
San Francisco, CA94114
Street Address:
50 Belcher Street
(between 14th St & Duboce)
Phone:
415-905-6509
E-Mail Address:
FreedomSF@AOL.com
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
C!t1,1orfc th!t eR ts11rrectiott
METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHU
5540 Eouth Woodlawn Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637-1621
"Serving Chicago's gay
and lesbian community
tor 15 years. "
Worship services
Sundays 10:30 a.m.
Sunday school
Sundays 10:30 a.m.
Ask us about our house groups,
Give us a call at312/288-1535
DES MOINES, IOWA
Church of the Holy Spirit
Metropolitan Community Church
POBox8426
Des Moines
IA50301
Tel.(515)284-7940
Visit us this Sunday at 6pm. Our
worship & office location is at
1548 8th Street, Des Moines, Iowa.
Calling people to new life.
Confronting the injustice,
Creating a community,
PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND
For LesB1Gay Inclusive
Worship in Rhode Island
1W1 INTEGRITY is a LesBiGay Ministry within
L~ -the E-piscopal Church INTEGRITY/RmIe etsa t 4:30p mo n the 2ndS un.o f
the montha t St. JamesE piscopaCl hurch( adckess
below)e. mailr: integily@aol.cofmor morem fo.
Join us at one of these
_Rainbow Congregations
St JamesE piscopaCl hurch,4 74F ruitH ill
Ave.N, o.P rovidencSee./ vicesS: un.a t 9:30a m.
St. Peter's & St Andrew's Episcopal
Church, 25 Pomona Ave., Providence.
Se!vk:eSsu: na. t8& 10amW, eda. t7 pm.
Interneht ttp://wMv.ids.neVsainlpanda
Churches in Germany and
Canada s~outfor gays
FRANKFURT, Germany (ENI) - A
Reformed church federation in Germany
has called for an end to discrimination
against gays in th e
church. .
Gays and lesbians should be able to
work as ordained ministers, and
"lesbian and gay couples who wish to
begin a life togeth er" should be able
to celebrate a church service of blessing,
acco rding to a statement from the
federation's synod in Bueckeburg,
reported by the German news agency
epd .
The Bund evangelisch-reformierter
Kirch en - an a ss ociation of six
Reformed parishes in Germany
which do not belong to any of Germany's
24 prot estant regional Landeskirchen
- is linked to the Evangelical
Church in Germany (EK.J).
In Toronto, the general secretary of
th e Anglican Church of Canada ,
Archdeacon Jim Boyles, has written
to the Federal Government supporting
proposed legislation to ban discrimination
based on sexual orientation .
"We do not 1>elieve that anyone
should be d iscriminated again st
because of gend er, race, creed, color or
sex ual o rientation , " Archdeac o n
Boyles wrote to th e Federal Justice.
Minister, Alan Rock. "I would like to
encourag e your government in its
endeavor to amend the Canadian
Human Rights Act to include sexual
orientation on the protected list."
Germ an Luthe ran church ac cepts
blessi ng of gay cou ple
THE LUTHERAN CHURCH of
Hamburg, Germ any, accept e d the
first public blessing of a gay couple by
AIDS chaplain Rain er Jarchow . "All .
peopl e are in need of blessing ." said
Bishop Maria Jepsen after a m eeting
with Jarchow.
Anyon e who wishes to r eceive
"God's word of comfort" on th eir common
path in responsibly living as
Christians, shou ld not be refused,
Jepsen said . She added that th e public
bles sing should -not be misunderstood
"in the sense of marriag e" and
reinterpreted for sociopolitical purpos
es .
' The synod of t he Evang elical
Lutheran Church of Latvia approved
a revised version of th e church consistory'
s resolution of September 1994
"On Pursuit of Homosexuality." The
revis ed re solution stated that homosexuality
is a "deadly sin" and cong
regations are instruct ed to exclude
from the eucharist all pr acticing
homos exual s who don't repent of
their homo s exuality . It also said
thos e "deliberately practicing homosexuality
and having chos en ii as
their way of life are not allow e d to
fulfill any duti es and positi ons in the
church hi erarchy ."
Th e North Elbian Evangelical
Lutheran Church has a duty "to unr eservedly
affirm marriage and its sp ecial
importance ," said its governing
board in a statement on "Marriage,
family and oth er lifestyl es." But the
German church also said an affirmation
of marriage doe s not have to go
hand in hand with a depr ecation of
other lifestyl es.
The Lutheran
l111lk of this
issue of
Second
Stone .
Ideal for
study
groups
-and bar
ministry!
SEEJHE
ORDER FORM
ON PA GE'.!'.!
And behold, a· certain lawyer stood up and put H im to the test, saying, aTeacher, what sfw/1 J
do to inherit eternal life?" A nd Jesus said to h;-m, "What is written in the Law? How does it
read to yau ?" And he answered and said, "You sha/1 /ove the Lord your God wit/, a// your
heart, and wit/1 all you r soul, and with a// your strength, and with a// your mind; and your
n eighbor as yourself" And Jesus said to him, "You haue answered correctly, do tins and you
w,/l/we" B { Tr-r
W1sb-\ to JUSTlfY hunself ,
he said to Jes us. . . lUKf 10: Z5-2ij
COHH~[TIOH ~g5
, T H U R SD AY, JU LY 4 T HR OU GH SUN DA Y , J ULY 7
C H APMA N U NI V ER S ITY , OR AN GE , C A
• Conn EC tio n '9 6 i s a f our-day
retreat exper ience with ot he r lesb
i an /gay Christians. Activities
include worship , keyn ote a ddresses,
workshops, sma ll group in ter actio n,
time to play, and time to reflect on
our experience. Rega rdless of where
you are on your journey of integrating
your spirihia lity and o rientation ,
this could be. a rich and rewarding
weekend for you.
Key 11ote Speakers:
Dr. Ra lp/1 B lair, founder of
E vangelicals Conce ni cd, Inc.
Dr. Jun e St e// cuscn l-Iagcn , tl1e
1993 recipient of Integrity's Morge
Gumm Award, teac h es Eng l ish at
Bronx Communi ty Co llege of the
City Unive rsity o f Ne~: York.
Na ncy and Chi p M ille r, whose son
died of AIDS, spend much of their
t ime trave li ng to congrega ti on s
rela ting t h e ir fami ly's journey with
their son's h omosexua lity, _ill ness
and death.
E vangelicals Concerned Western
Reg iona l Fcl/mvsl,ip is a no n-profit
organization t h at positive ly unites
lesbi a n /gay sexua lit y with bib lical
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To receive more information please
con tact ~s.
ECWR
60 2.8 93.69 52
P O Box 669 06
Phoenix, AZ 85 082 -6906
PAGE 15 • SECOND STONE • MAY/J UNE, 1996
Families affected by
AIDS find help through·
Christian ministry
By Lisa Bass
The Pasadena Citizen
PASADENA, Texas -On a quiet, treelined
street on the northwest side
of town, a dedicated network of helpers
are using biblical principles thousands
of years old to cope with one of
the most intractable problems of the
20th century.
His Touch HIV/ AIDS Ministries,
led in Pasadena by the Rev. Ray
Highfield, has turned the care for
and comfort of HIV-positive and
AIDS-infected men, women, children
and families into a calling not
always recognized by some church
groups.
The ministry currently operates a
transitional home for AIDS patients
that are unable to work, and a small
apartment building for infected
families, on its 6-acre compound.
But after extensive remodeling is
complete, the group hopes to offer a
unique set of services not now availab
le at one central site, including
housing facilities for families,
women and children, and teens; hospice
care; ac\ult and child day care
buildings; and a playground - a sort o(
"one stop shopping" for AIDS
patients.
"Historically, churches have been
there for all types of plagues," said
Highfield. "We seem to have
dropped the ball on this one . Initially
there was a real indifference
on the part of many churches because
most of the first patients were gay
and they didn't know how to minister
to them."
The ministry's transitional house
for HIV-positive and AIDS-infected
clients accepted its first patients in
July of 1995, and has served approximately
45 patients since that time .
Some patients stay for a few days,
some might stay for a year - but all
are grateful for the compassionate
care and clean, pleasant housing the
ministry offers.
Charles, a 33-year-old HIVpositive
client who wished that his
last name not be used, has been at the
ministry house for less than a week,
but already feels at home in his
shared room.
"I feel accepted here," he said.
"Rev. Highfield welcomed me with
open arms. I truly feel like I've found
a new family ."
Already, Charles has suffered a
brutal blow from the disease. His
wife died of complications from AIDS
on Dec. 8, 1995. Charles had discovered
he was HIV-positive only a
month before.
r'AlGAYELLOW PAGES TM INFORMING THE LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL &f"n
~ TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY SINCE 1973 ~
Complete gay-friendiy resources . .. ~ ~::inesses: accommodations, bars, bookstores, dentists, doctors, lawyers,
therapists, travel services, printers, Organizations, Media, Religious groups, Help lines & A.I.D.SJH.1.V. resources.
Listings broken down by State & City. Index & fast access phone list. UPDATED ANNUALLY.
For an application to be listed (no charge), or for details of current editions and prices,
or Information about mailing labels, please send a self-addressed stamped envelope to
Renaissance House, PO Box 533-SS, Village Station, New York, NY 10014(212) 674-0120
You can order direclly from the address above, or you can find us your local gay-friendly bookstores.
If you wish to order by phone with a credit card, please call A DIFFERENT LIGHT 1-800-343·4002;·
FAX (212) 989-2158; outside USA and Canada call 1-212-989-4850. (A Different Light has stores in
New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. They are not involved with production or publication of
Gayellow Pages, so please don't call them except to order.) ·
•1 wish all my readers had a copy of this very useful volume. If you live in Nowheresville, U.S.A., and haven't a clue
about how to find other gay folks, this book is indispensable. There's no way to remain isolated if you make use of
the information contained in the Gayel/ow Pages.• Pat Callfia, Tho Advocate Advisor
"By far the most comprehensive and up-to-date gay guide .. . Gayel/ow Pages .. . includes the standard entries for
bars and restaurants .. . But the Gayel/ow Pages excels thanks to its additional alphabetized listings by city for
AIDS and HIV services, legal resources, organizations (categorized by purpose or inte:est}, religious groups,
publications, businesses and more. In short, if an entity welcomes gay, lesbian and bisexual people, no matter how
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th
at it
"For over 12 yBBrs Gayel/ow Pages has been our most-used resource book. We recommend it to every performer, :~r::, ~~edu~~tk1~s;g::,zg~;,;fy1it%,~'E,a;:~::h ;;::;;~s~:c":r':;~M~~;;; s9S e in contact with. It's the
PAGE 16 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE. 1996
ki£:.
"She was the one that infected me,
but I don't blame her," he said. "I
never told her (that I was infected)
before she died. Knowing she was
already so sick, I didn't wa'1t to burden
her."
Her birthday would have been
March 31. He held a small ceremony
in her honor, lighting candles and
remembering their 16 years together .
"Even though she's dead and gone, I
still love her dearly," he said.
Charles, a slim, muscular man with
dark, soulful eyes, carries no visible
signs of the disease. Right now he's
healthy and able to take part in
activities that even some noninfected
couch potatoes would hesitate to try.
"I rollerblade," he said. "Right
now, I feel like I could run a
marathon."
But the insidious course of the disease
makes his future murky at best.
New treatments designed to slow the
progress of the virus are extending
the lifespans of patients dramatically,
but as of yet, no cure is in sight.
One man at the transitional home
has been infected with the virus for
14 years now, making him one of the
longest surviving HIV-positive
patients known to researchers.
"The state of Florida sent me a letter
saying I tested positive in 1982 -
but they never told me (until
recently)," according to Ray Flowers,
a patient at the house . "I could have
given it to my wife and child. My one
blessing is that I didn't.
''I'd like to live long enough to get
back with her. But the only way I can
do that is to live long enough for
them to find a cure."
'Tm kind of optimistic about the
future, but I'm kind of scared about it
too," Charles said . "I don't see myself
around after the year 2000."
But Charles refuses to allow HIV to
spiral him into the kind of depression
that can hasten the progres~ion of the
virus. He looks forward to the day he
can make a long-dreamed-of trip to
New York City, and chats· enthusiastically
about his plans to do volun-
Homosexuality
and
Christian
Community
Choon-Loong Soow, editor
Contributors to thie volume, all
members of the Princeton
Theological Seminary faculty,
addre,ss the various exegetical,
interpretive, and practical issues
pertaining to gays and lesbians in
the church. Ideal for churches and
individuals engaged in theological
reflection on this issue.
teer work with AIDS-infected children.
He is taking classes at Houston
Community College, working toward
a degree in psychology'. And he'd like
to try skydiving - although he's ruled
out bungee-jumping.
"Too dangerous," he laughs.
He looks forward to the day he can
tell his friends and family h e is
HIV-positive, without fearing their
reactions. His mother knows about
his disease, but his three brothers do
not.
Friends who are also AIDS-infected
know about his status, since they can
be trusted to keep his secret, and offer
comp115sionand understanding, but he
worries that noninfected friends who
■
"When we looked at
this property, we
probably had $50
in our bank
account ... When we
finish, we'll have a
property valued at
around a half million
dollars. We
believe God will
provide."
■
learn of his status will reject him.
"I want to tell them so badly but I'm
afraid to. I think they need to know
.but I'm afraid if I let them know,
they'll run away," he said.
Of all the burdens faced by HIVpositive
patients, discrimination is
possibly the only one that will not
eventually be solved by medical science.
"In the black community especially,
AIDS is hushed up," he said. "The
black community doesn't really
SEE ms TOUCH, Next Page
$14.99
Order from Second Stone Press, Page 22.
1..-...: ,'·t '·# j M« iiMfi
His Touch provides for families
From Previous Page
accept it. To them, it's a curse. It's
looked on as a white disease.
"But they're wrong. This disease
doesn't discriminate. It doesn't care
who you are."
"Just a few months ago, I was really
angry and tired of the prejudice,"
Flowers said. "Now I'd like to get a
· tattoo that says 'Biohazard,' to warn
everyone I meet about the dangers of
street drugs."
"These people are the modern-day
lepers," Highfield said . "They've
experienced so much rejection that
when they come into an atmosphere
of love, it 's overwhelming. They're
not used to being cared for."
Highfield and His Touch try to
bring the teachings of Jesus to their
ministry, helping all those in need
without regard to their faith, or
their previous failings. Highfield
applies the example of the Good
Samaritan to his work, believing
LETTERS,
FromPage23
corned with open arms.
God bless you in your work.
Sincere ly ,
Ardyce Fislt
Timonium, Maryland
We erred in article
on Sr. Gramick
Dear Second Stone:
Imagine my surprise when I read in
the Jan/Feb '96 issue of Second Stone
that I was a Franciscan Sister of the
Poor, as reported in your "Names
Making News" column. In fact, my
religious order is the School Sisters of
Notre Dame.
Moreover, you seem to have
afforded me the supernatural privilege
of bi-location by referring to me
as an advocate for the poor at Detroit
Central City Community Mental
Health, while in fact I am simply
the director of lesbian and gay ministry
for the Baltimore province pf the
School Sisters of Notre Dame .
While I am honored by the attribution,
I must confess that both facts
refer not to me, but to my co-chair at
the National Coalition of American
Nuns, Sr. Be th Rindler.
Although it is true that I and rriy
colleague, Fr. Robert Nugent, are
being investigated by the Vatican, it
is not for "heresy" but for alleged
"ambiguity" about what the
Catholic Church teaches about
homosexuality . Many people, including
Catholic bishops, do not know
that his reward lies in knowing that
he has made a difference.
His clients have included people
from all walks of life - from pastors
and college professors to homeless
indigents battling drug and alcohol
problems. The home has sheltered
Buddhists and MP.slims, Protestants
and Catholics.
"If they're Catholic, we arrange for
them to go to a Catholic church . If
they're Jewish, we arrange for them
to go to the synagogue,'' he said. "We
do not proselytize. Whether their
lifestyle is right or wrong is between
them and God ."
Highfield became ·,11volved with
AIDS outreach in the mid-80s, at a
time wh e n the dis ease was not yet
fully understood. Many people
shunned AIDS patients, believing
that they could become infected with
the HIV virus through casual contact
- a simple handshake or a peck on the
cheek, for instance.
Highfield took the opposite tack,
that numerous members of the
Catholic hierarchy have mad e some
positive statements about lesbian and
gay issues, as Fr. Nugent and I document
in our r~cent book, Voices of
Hope .
Thank you for clarifying this informanning
the front lines of the battle
agair.st AIDS and in ihe process forging
a new role for religious groups
that had previously rejected HIVpositive
populations.
"A friend of mine, whom I went to
school with, introduced me to the
AIDS situation. He was homosexual
and he was infected,'' Highfield
said . "I saw back then that the
church needed to prepare for this epidemic
- now a pandemic."
Highfield, along with members of
the national board of His Touch,
envisioned a facility in Pasadena
devoted to transitional housing for
AIDS patients back in 1990. The
planning, fundraising, site acquisition
and remodeling of the initial house
were a work of love, and faith.
"When we looked at this property,
we probably had · $50 in our bank
account,'' he said. "When we finish,
we'll have a property valued at
around a half million dollars . We
believe God will provide."
mation for your readers.
Sincerely,
Jeannine Gramick, SSND
Ed. Note: Our apologies to Sr. Gramick
and Sr. Rindler for tlte inaccuracies
in the "Names Making News"
article.
Recent finding by top biblical scholars offer a
radical new view on the Bible
w~;! Bible and homosexuality.
Really Says
About
Homosexuality
• ..,.,,j,,,lmrh<•-,-tf,,•-
·' ·"' '""'
Daniel A.Helminiak, Ph.D.
JoknS . SpOnQ
Kt1ow
A Gay My liberation
Theology
Name
Daniel A. Helminiak , Ph.D., respected theologian
and Roman Catholic priest , expla ins in a
clear fashion fascinating new insights .
" ... will help any reasonably open and attentive
reader see that the Bible says something
quite different on this subjecl from what is often
claimed." - L. William Countryman
Whal the Bible Really Says
About Homosexuality, $9.95, paperback
ORDER FROM SECOND STONE PRESS.
SEEPAGE 22.
Writer and activist RICHARD CLEA VER
takes a fresh approach to the ongoing
debate by examining the struggles of gay
men and lesbians in the church through the
lens of liberation theology. He offers a
"gay reading" of scripture, but one that is
also spiritually challenging to all readers.
Cleaver interweaves biblical reflections
with historical; social, political, and personal
commentary.
Know My Name, by Richard Cleaver
Now available in paperback, $15.99
Order from Second Stone Press, page 22
Chnst1an Responses to AIDS
The facility met with initial resistance
from the city of Pasadena when
it applied -for a certificate of occupancy,
which Highfield believes
stemmed in part from the nature of
the group home.
"Someday, the city of Pasadena
will be proud that we ' re here,"
Highfield said.
Opinions in the neighborhood have
ranged from grudging acceptance to
outright enthusiasm, according to
Highfield.
"I was surprised," he said. "I
expected a lot of opposition from the
neighbors. But I'm impressed with
(the residents of) Pasadena, by the
openness of the community .
"These are caring people, who know
not to be afraid."
• •
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TOORDER
PLEASE SEE PAGE 22
PAGE 17 • SECOND STONE• MAY/JUNE, 1996
Events
Announcements in this section are provided
free of charge as a service 10 Christian organizations.
To have an event listed. send infor-
1nalio11 lo Second Slone, P.O. Box 8340,
New Orleans, LA 70182, FAX lo (504)891-
7555, e-mail secstone@aol.com.
Gay, Lesbian and Christian:
Our Treasure
JUNE 6-9, We've found a treasure, not
made of gold, but of of very souls; liviug
life as faith -filled lesbians and gay men;
persons whom God created. This 20th
annual event for lesbians, gay men and
bisexuals of all colors, their families and
friends, will continue to explore issues of
sexuality in the context of Christian faith
and practice. The process includes daily
worship, small group sharing, workshops,
play, and celebration. Led by John
McNeill, Virginia Ramey Mollenkott,
Rev. LaPaula Turner, Scott Anderson and
Robert Raines. Fee, $295. Contact: Kirkridge,
2495 Fox Gap Road, Bangor, PA
18013-9359 (610-588-1793).
Religious Life Weekend
and Retreat
JUNE 7-9, The Mercy of God Community
sponsors the fifth annual gathering at the
Xavier Retreat Center, Convent Station,
New Jersey. The weekend is designed for
those who want to expl ore the possibility
of service in religious life. For information
contact the Mercy of God Community,
P.O. Box 41055, Providence, RI
02940 - 1055.
CMI Retreat:
The Heart: Hospitality,
Healing, Hope
JUNE 10-14, The Serra Retreat House in
Malibu, Calif., is the setting for this
Communications Ministry retreat to be led
by Ron Raab and Chris Machado. CMI
(an organization of gay Catholic priests
and brothers and lesbian sisters) offers a
safe opportunity for people to come and
share their faith journey for the purpose of
nurturing the ongoing integration of
sexuality/spirituality and ministry as gay,
lesbian and bisexual people. Fee, $355.
For information write to: CMI Retreat
Committee, P.O. Box 10658, Chicago, IL
60610-0658.
sponsored gathering. Bryn Mawr College,
Philadelphia, is the setting. The theme is
"If My People Who Are Called By My
Name .. ." Fee, $85. For information contact
Pilgrim Fellowship Church, P.O.
Box 4306, Elwyn, PA 19063, (610)237-
1367.
Sisters in a Strange Land:
A Retreat for Christian
Lesbians
JUNE 21-23, Join with others on the
shores of Lake Michigan to explore how
lesbians are challenging and reshaping
Christian spirituality from a feminist perspective.
Sponsored by Leaven, Inc ., this
retreat is partially funded with a grant from
United Church Board for Homeland Ministries.
For information, call Melanie Morrison,
(517)855-2277 or write Leaven, P.O.
Box 23233, Lansing, MI 48909.
GLAD Alliance Annual Event
. JUNE 21-24, Members and friends of the
Gay, Lesbian and Affirming Disciples will
gather in Santa Fe, New Mexico at the
Plaza Resolana Conference Center for
"Centering on the Edge." Facilitating will
be Rev. Mary Jacobs, co-pastor of Desert
Dove Christian Church in Tucson and
immediate past First Vice Moderator of
the Christian Church (Disciples of
Christ), and Professor J. Cy Rowell, Professor
of Religious Education and Director
of Continuing Education at TCU's Brite
East Coast ACTS Weekend Divinity School. For registration informa-
JUNE 21-23, The Eastern regional tion, write GLAD Event, P .O. Box
ADVANCE Christian Ministries- 11876, Knoxville, TN 37939.
PAGE 18 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Integrity National Convention
JUNE 27-30, "Approaching the New Mil lennium
with Integrity" is the theme of
this annual gathering of gay, lesbian and
bisexual Episcopalians. New York City
during Gay Pride is the setting for this
organization to ponder a very active year
in the life of their church ... and to relax
and enjoy. For information contact
Integrity/New York, P.O. Box 20067,
New York, NY 10011.
UCC Third National
Meeting of Women
JUNE 27-30, The United Church of Christ
presents "Voices and Visions: Third
National Meeting of Women" featuring
Barbara Ehrenreich, June Goudey, Bernice
Powell Jackson and Christine Smith. For
information call 1-800-653-0799.
Supportive Congregations
International Gathering
JUNE 28-30, "Dancing at the Table: Reimagining
the Church" is the theme of
this conference, sponsored by the Supportive
Congregations Network and the
Church of the Brethren Women's Caucus.
Manchester College in North Manchester,
Indiana, is the setting. Any congregation
or individual interested in finding an
affirming place for lesbian, gay and bisexual
members in the Brethren and Mennonite
churches is welcome. For information
write to P .O. Box 6300, Minneapolis,
MN 55406 or call (612)305-0315 or email
scnetwork@aol.com.
UCCL/GC National Gathering
JUNE 30-JULY 4, The United Church
Coalition for Lesbian/Gay Concerns meets
at Massachusetts Institute of Technology
in Boston. Rev. Dr. Joan M,rrtin and Rev.
Dr. Carter Heyward are featured g_uests.
"Pluralism and Power" is the theme. Fee,
$85. For information contact John W.
Lardin, 23324 Manor Rd., N . , New Boston,
MI 48164, (313)753-4808,
jwlardin@aol.com.
connECtion '96
JULY 4-7, Chapman College in Orange
County, Calif oi;nia is the setting for this
year's national gathering of Evangelicals
Concerned. Featured speakers include Dr.
Ralph Blair, founder of EC, June Steffen sen
Hagen, author of Rattling Those Dry
Bones: Women Changing the Church, and
Nancy and Chip Miller, who are affiliated
with the Kentucky Southern Baptist Convention
and whose son died of AIDS. For
information call (212)517-3171.
GLPCI & COLAGE
Conference
JULY 4- 7, The Regal Hotel in Minneapolis
is the setting for this conference for
lesbian, bisexual, transgender and gay parents,
their children, friends and family, ·
hosted by Minnesota Families. "Proud
Parents Make Proud Kids" is the theme.
The conference, sponsored by Gay and
Lesbian Parents Coalition International, is
open to all gay, lesbian, bisexual and
transgender individuals involved in parenting
roles. For information contact Minne sota
Families, GLPCI '96, P.O. Box
11270, St. Paul, MN 55111-0970,
(612)924 -3049.
Gay and Lesbian
Family Week
AUGUST 3-11 , The Gay and Lesbian Parents
Coalition has declared the first week
in August "Gay and Lesbian Family
Week." The organization will celebrate the
week in Provincetown, Mass. GLPCI will
host a barbecue and the Provincetown
Chamber of Commerce will suggest activities
f~r families to enjoy during the week.
For information contact GLPCI, P.O. Box
50360, Washington, DC 20091,
(202)583-8029, FAX (201)783-6204.
World Gathering on
Bereavement
AUGUST 14-18, This international conference
brings together the bereaved,
bereavement support organizations and
professionals. More than 90 workshops
and sharing groups are offered. The Red
Lion Airport Hotel in Seattle is the setting.
The conference is sponsored by
Accord Aftercare Services of Louisville,
Kentucky and Family Services, Seattle .
For information call (800)346-3087 or
(206)246-6142.
First National Gathering
of Welcoining and
Affirming Baptists
.AUGUST 16-18, Lake Street Church
(W &A), Evanston, Illinois, is the setting
for the inaugural gathering of the Welcoming
and Affirming Baptists. Keynote
speakers are Peggy and Tony Campolo.
Among the workshops and forums being
planned are discussions of the "disfellowshipping"
situation, resources for
W &A ministries and planning for the next
gathering at the 1997 Biennial. The organization
had not released registration information
as of press time.
Gay Male Rites of Passage:
Moving Beyond Coming
Out to Being Out
AUGUST 16-18, How can gay men ritually
negotiate their identity-development
tasks and spiritual challenges? This w,eekend
will channel joys, rages, griefs, and
powers of gay experience, providing spiritual
tools to nurture happy, open, successful
lives. Fee, $225. Contact: Kirkridge,
2495 Fox Gap Road, Bangor, PA 18013-
9359 (610-588-1793).
PFLAG National Conference
OCTOBER ll-14, The Crystal Gateway
Marriott in Washington, D.C. is the setting
for the annual gathering of Parents,
Friends and Family of Lesbians and Gays.
"Love Takes Action - Building A Nation
Of Equality" is the theme. For information
contact The Balcom Group, (202)686-
0474, balcomgrp@aol.com.
Church & Or anization News
Alliance of Christian
Churches unites
independent churches
A NEW ORGANIZATION of independent
congregations adopted its
constitution and by-laws on Feb. 26.
The Alliance of Christian Churches
will not be a denomination and every
member church remains independent,
according to Jerry Cook, moderator of
the ACC and pastor of White Rock
Community Church in Dallas. "The
purpose is to create a spirit of cooperation
among independent congregations
where churches will be able to
come together in endeavors or missions,
Christian education, fellowship
and community prayer to more
effectively meet the needs of an everexpanding
gay and lesbian community,"
Cook said. The opening charter
meeting will be held in Houston
beginning Sept . 30. Information about
the Alliance of Christian Churches
may be obtained by calling (214)320-
0043 or by writing 722 Tenison Memo0
rial Rd., Dallas, TX 75223.
Disfellowshipped Baptist
churches invited
to join UFMCC
THE METROPOLITAN Community
Church of San Francisco welcomed
representatives from the five Bay
Area Welcoming and Affirming
American Baptist congregations during
its worship service April 27 - a
celebrati911 of the congregation's 26th
anniversary.
·Four of the five churches represented
- First Baptist Church of
Berkeley, Lakeshore Avenue Baptist
Church of Oakland, New Community
of Faith in San Jose, and San Leandro
Community Church were disfellowshipped
earlier this year by the
American Baptist Churches of the
West for joining the Welcoming and
Affirming Congregation program ,
Dolores Street Baptist Church of San
Francisco was also represented.
Representatives from each of the
five congregations received a certificate
from Rev. Jim Mitulski, pastor of
MCC San Francisco, recognizing each
drnrch for its struggle to be a place of
affirmation for gay and lesbian people
. The certificates were accompanied
by a letter inviting the congre-,
gations to join the Universal Fellowship
of Metropolitan Community
Churches.
"We believe that God calls some to
make a prophetic stance within their
denominations and that God calls
others beyond the bounds of those
churches in their ministries.
Whichever path you are called to,
know that we are united with you in
spirit and in prayer," the letter said.
White Rock Church
serves PWA
community
THE FRIENDS MINISTRY'S General
Store of White Rock Community
Church in Dallas has become a major
resource to the PWA community. The
store has given out thousands of dollars
in dry .goods. White Rock
stepped in when a local PW A agency
faced a funding loss. The church provided
volunteers and almost $3000 in
goods and donations. The Friends
Ministry sponsors an Adopt-A-Friend
program for $10 a month and the Gen-
Names Makin News
Bishop Melvin G. Talbert and
Rev. Jeanne Audrey Powers
BISHOP TALBERT, president of the
National Council of Churches, and
Transitions
THE REV. KARL SPATZ, pastor of
Christ Episcopal Church in Las
Vegas for the past 26 years, died
March 10. He was 64. Rev. Spatz was
one of the first clergy in Southern
Nevada to freely speak about AIDS.
He also accepted and encouraged gay
men and lesbians to worship at his
church and welcomed them as members
of his congregation. He was a
pioneer of tolerance and compassion,
often referring to the congregation as
"the household."
Rev. Powers, associate general secretary
of the United Methodist General
Commission of Christian Unity and
Interreligious Concerns, was honored
with the social action awards of the
Methodist Federation for Social
Action during the UMC General Conference
in April. Talbert, who presides
over the San Francisco Area of
the UMC, has been an outstanding
leader in the UM Council of Bishops
on issues of peace and justice since
1980, including the fight against
racism and homophobia and opposition
to the Gulf War. Powers is a UM
church executive for ecumenical
affairs who has helped lead the
Methodist church in every conceivable
justice issue. She was forced into
silence on the issue of homosexuality
after she came out as a lesbian last
summer.
era! Store is raising money through
the sale of stick-on red ribbons and
white hats featuring red ribbons. For
information on helping these ministries,
readers may call Jerry Lynq;
(214)823-3899 or Hillary Koenig
(214)320-0106.
Hawaii church celebrates
25th anniversary
THE KE ANUENUE O Ke Aloha
Metropolitan Community Church of
Honolulu is celebrating its 25th anniversary.
The Rev. John Bullock is
pastor of the 55-member congregation.
The congregation held its anniversary
celebration April 20 at Harris
United Methodist Church. The Rev .
Chnst1an Commun1t News
Troy Perry, founder of the Metropolitan
Community Churches, was scheduled
to speak; The church holds a
. service at 7 p;m. every Sunday at'lhe
Church of the Crossroads.
New church starts
in Detroit
A NEW CHURCH to serve the needs
of the lesbian and gay community in
the Detroit area held its first service
April 14. The Church of St. Sergius
and St. Bacchus will hold weekly
services in Southfield at Calvary
Lutheran ·church. The pastor of the
church is Rev. John Roberts, a former
Lutheran minister. The church may
be reached at (810)647-9865.
New group of Catholics forms to
fight homophobia in church
By Pat Burson
St. Paul Pioneer Press
Sf. PAUL, Minn. - A Catholic bishop
known for clashing with the Vatican's
view that gays are
"intrinsically disordered" joined
Twin Cities Catholics in announcing a
group to combat homophobia within
the church. Members of the new
group, the Catholic Coalition for
Sexual Minorities, said the Rev. Thomas
Gumbleton, auxiliary bishop of
the Archdiocese of Detroit for the
past 27 years, inspired their effort to
open the Roman Catholic Church to
people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual
and transgender.
During a 1994 visit to the Twin
Cities, Gumbleton said the Vatican's
teachings on homosexuality have
alienated gays. During the announcement
of the new group, he reiterated
those views. "There is a need for a
very real pastoral effort to reach out
lo prevent the alienation and the
sense of abandonment by the church
that so many people of gay, lesbian,
bisexual or transgender backgrounds
have experienced," Gumbleton said
at a news conference at the Minnesota
Church Center.
Coalition organizers, who represent
about a dozen area parishes, hope to
join the discussion about the church's
teachings on sexuality and its
approach to persons of nontraditional
sexual orientations. They also hope
to counter views of groups that, they
say, have distorted complex church
teachings in ways that have promoted
discrimination and hostility.
"I don't think there's a place for a
homophobic church in this society,"
said coalition member John Watkins,
an openly gay man and a parishioner
at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis.
"I feel we're acting within what
we've all been taught as Christ's
message within the church," said
coalition member Mary Simone
White, a parishioner at St. Joan of
Arc Church in Minneapolis . White's
son died of complications from AIDS
in 1993.
Coalition organizers wrote a letter
. earlier this month to the Rev. Kevin
McDonough, vicar general and moderator
of the curia for the Archdiocese
of St. Paul and Minneapolis,
detailing their plans. They say they
have not received a reply, McDonough
could not be reached for comment.
For more information about the
Catholic Coalition for Sexual Minorities
call 612-340-0618.
Ecumenical & Inclusive
.:::~r;i~':1 ii,t LJ!
';:,, .l(j\·;·I' :· 1~ .-· . . \~1.1• '.··. / ·,•·J.J, ;·;,
(11' ,:I' /! . (. , r 1 1n,
We are a Christian community of men
and women from various Catholic and ,
Protestant traditions involved in minstries
of Jove, · compassion and reconciliation.
We live and work in the world,
supporting ourselves and our ministries.
We are inspired by the spirit of St
Francis and St. Clare. Like the ecumenical
Taize Community we are not canonically
affiliated with any denomination.
For more infonnation or a copy of our
newsletter, Footsteps, please write us:
Vocation Director
Dept. 55, PO Box.8340
New Orleans, LA 70182
Mercy of God Community
PAGE 19 • SECOND STONE • MAY/JUNE, 1996
Good 'behaving' from
Marsha Stevens
Music
FANS OF MARSHA STEVENS who
have not been fortunate enough to
hear her in concert recently should be
aware of two little gems that any CD
player can bring to life as a festive
spiritual experience. BALM (Born
Again Lesbian Music) Ministries
rather quiet!; · eased two new CDs
by Stevens late last year.
"I Will Not Behave Like Prey" is
• Stevens' newest release on her own
label. It is sixth in a line of albums
and a concert video. Once again, Stevens
manages to stay in what she
calls "a narrow field that is wide
open," with music specifically relevant
to the gay experience in the service
of Christ. While much of the
title cut could apply to a wider SingerandcomposerMarshaStevens
Christian audience eschewing victimization
and blame and choosing to Know it Best: Inclusive Hymns for the
stand for Christ, some lyrics remain Church." Produced by Glenna
unquestionably applicable lo the Shepherd, the GD is a collection of
marginalized gay and lesbian com- everyone's favorite hymns, with lyrmunity.
"That hateful preacher's not ics revised in inclusive fashion, and
our foe, the enemy is hate; I will not sung in Stevens' unique style. The 14
be a victim or be kept outside The tracks include "In the Garden," "It is
Gate," Stevens sings. Well," "I Love to Tell the Story,"
The CD was produced and arranged "Great is Thy Faithfulness," and
by Chris Lobdell with Stevens writ- "Amazing Grace." Listeners will paring
or sharing credit for music on two ticularly appreciate Stevens' acapcuts
and lyrics on six of the ten tracks. pella treatment of "There is a Balm
Bold titles like "The Body Of Christ in Gilead."
Has AIDS" and "Love is the Only Stevens' music breaks through the
Law" are a teaser for what's in store religious rhetoric so many have come
from this diverse set of upbeat music to hate and talks about everyone's
about triumph in the struggle. longing to see purpose in their exist-
Stevens is the composer of the popu- ence and healing in their lives.
Jar hymn "For Those Tears I Died" "I can't imagine anything I would
which appears in almost every rather do," Stevens says.
hymnal in use. She wrote that song - "Occasionally people ask me why I
when she was 16 - at the very begin- don't cross over into the bar or dub
ning of her musical career. (In 1969, scene, and I have to tell them that I
Pat Boone called her to ask if he don't think people are attracted to
could record it.) Stevens' coming out my music because I'm the best singer
as e lesbian took her out of the big or performer or musician around. Peomainstream
Christian music market pie are attracted to my passion for
and she gets little play on Christian what I do."
music radio stations. Likewise, her Stevens continues to live her dream:
Christian music keeps her out of the to minister to the gay community
gay pop music scene. through her music. "We' re a very
These days, she performs in concert wounded people," she says~ "Wolves
in churches around the country, trav- have been among the fold. The more
eling in a 9' by 35' RV with her spou- that we walk in the light, the more
se-manager, Suzanne McKeag, and healing will come about by itself ."
their cocker spaniel and cat. For information on Marsha Stevens'
The other CD released by Stevens music, contact BALM. P.O. Box 1981,
late last year is "For Those Who Costa Mesa, CA 92628.
PAGE 20 • SECOND STONE • MAY/ J UN E, 1996
A different kind of gay travel book
Not just an accidental tourist
Books
LA WREN CE BISCONTINI is a gay
Christian author and traveler who
has gathered his accounts of his journeys
to over twenty countries on
several continents into a travel book
that stands out in a refreshingly different
way from most gay travel literature
. There are no descriptions of
circuit parties and no lips on finding
hot cruise spots.
"The goal of the book is to put the
traveler or tourist into the world, and
not separate him or her from it by just
visiting gay bars," said Biscontini,
who put over a decade of work into
The One -Percent Factor: An Eccentric
Unicorn's Approach to Touring and
Traveling. "I don't believe the market
has seen a first-hand travel book
that's so filled with wholesome,
exciting, autobiographical gay fun,"
he said.
Many of Biscontini's travel journals,
or "logs," as he calls them, fill the
pages of The One -Percent Factor,
among them: his youthful first glimpses
of Europe, an Australian adventure,
excursions to South and Central
America, and journeys to the Middle
and Far Easts.
''The title itself has nothing to do
with claims that ten percent of the
Western population is gay," Biscontini
said. "It is entirely an invention
of mine ... Indeed, if there is only one
powerful 'g' word in the book, it is just
as much 'God' as it is 'gay."'
One of Biscontini's experiences with
God is revealed in his account of a
summer trip to the South Pacific
Islands in 1983. The adventure was a
graduation present from his father. In
Bora Bora Biscontini writes:
"I boarded 'le truck' with a few
other hotel guests, and we set off for
Mass. Little did I know the magnificent
treat that was in store for me!
The locals were very friendly; two
boys handed out the Mass schedule.
At starting time, everyone moves into
the small church. The altar and
statues make lavish use of the many
flowers around. The small windows
let the sunlight pour in and also
enable everyone to hear the roosters
crowing next door.
''The children sit on and around the
altar area, so their parents (and
visitors!) occupy the limited seats . It
reminded me of Jesus and the children,
how close the children sit to the
priest! What a truly warm sight to
see! The entire congregation has on
Eccentric unicorn: Lawrence Biscontini
the 'Sunday' best outfits - from
dresses and hats to the freshest of
flowers ... The smiling faces of the
children reminded me of two things
that always remain universal,
regardless of how far away from
home one may go: 1) God's love is everywhere,
. and 2)everyone smiles in
the same language . Seventy five percent
of the Bora Bora population is
made up of these adorable, smiling
children!
"Mass was given by a friendly priest
with the help of a boy and a girl,
natives who read. The Mass was an
interesting mixture of French and
Tahitian languages. It lasted about
an hour. (I'm not sure because l don't
wear a watch in paradise.) Perhaps
the most exciting part of the Mass,
indeed, what made it up, was the
singing! Without music, one woman
leads everyone through the songs and
chants ... After Mass ... I stood outside
and really admired the native lifestyle.
The women with their babies,
dresses, and hats made me so happy
as I just watched them. What a
morning !"
Attending church is one of Biscontini'
s ways of making a quick connection
with a different culture. In Buenos
Aires on October 12, 1990 he writes:
"I was very impressed by the quantity
of young Argentines who [passed
the facade of the Cathedral) and
crossed themselves religiously as
they hurried by, obviously
SEE UNICORN, Next Page
Coming on video: The Bible
By David Briggs
Associated Press Religion Writer
EVEN CECIL B. DeMILLE would
have been impressed.
Casts of thousands. Multimilliondollar
budgets. And a running time of
over 250 hours.
Call it the biblical epic to end all
· biblical epics. A South African com_
pany is planning a filmed dramatiza.
tion of the entire Bible, word for
word.
Visual International of Cape Town
has already released the first fourvideo,
four-hour films of the Gospel
of Matthew and the Book of Acts.
Production is -planned to begin later
this year on the Book of Esther .
By somewhere around 2010, the com-
UNICORN,
From Previous Page
Catholic. .. I stumb led upon a mass just
in its beginning stages and I sang the
"Senor, ten piedad" part of the mass
with the congregation. It was
someth ing with which I was very
familiar - and it was good after a
nine-hour flight with only thre e
hours of sleep. It was God letting me
know that He was with me. · Here,
'down under ,' I could s till pick up
immediat ely on a part of society, in
■
Wherever I go, no
matter what the
culture, whenever
I find a Catholic
church, I can
immediately
relate to at least
one aspect of
culture!
■
this case the Roman Catholic Mass,
and .fit right in! Wherever I go, no
matter what the culture, whenever I
find a Catholic church, I can imme diately
relate to at least one aspect
of culture! This is an example of what
most definitely is traveling and not
'touristing ."'
Biscontini's travels have not been
without danger. H e wri tes of his
experience iri Puerto Rico as the center
pany plans to have made the edi;e
Bible available on videocassette.
In an age when some homes have
more videos than books, "The Visual
Bible" is the next logical step to
keeping Scriptures widely available
to contemporary audiences, company
officials say.
"It's kind of like Gutenberg when he
came out with the Bible in print,"
said David C. Seibert, president of
Dallas-based Visual Entertainment
Inc., which is distributing the videos
in North America. "This is a new generation
where we have it on video."
The four-video cassette packages of
"Matthew" and "Acts," which retail
for $99.95 each, are available by telephone
and mail order. Plans call for
the videos to be released to the genof
Hurricane Hugo blasted through on
September 18, 1989:
"I walked ... outside, trying to step
around and on top bf the broken glass
everywhere, through the hole of
where my large, picture-window in
the bedroom used to exist. i saw the
wasteland of Puerto Rico ... No trees
were standing, only twigs without
leaves ... I saw my socks, underwear,
ti es and other items of clothing scattered
among the rocks, grass, trees,
and debris of broken glass ... " - an
observation he made during the calm
of the eye of the storm. The winds
started up again from the opposite
direction and brought even more
destruction. "God did not abandon me
through the experience,'' Biscontini
writes. "He carried me. I know this
because there is no way I could have
preserved any amount of sanity having
to live in what had been my house
for those twelve hours, witnessing its
own undoing, without divine aid."
In addition to the travel logs, the
final chapters of The One-Percent
Factor are dedicated to the philosophy
of travel itself: what makes a
traveler and a tourist, with critical,
thoughtful ponderings of the status of
the world as it now exists. Here Biscontini
includes poetry he has written
during his travels through the years.
Most interestingly, learning what
exact ly is the enigmatic "one percent
factor" of the title brings great light
to those concerned with trans-cultural
studies. The One-Percent Factor can
serve, then, not only as an alternative
guidebook for both the arm-chair
tourist and real life traveler , but also
as a stimulant to those who ponder
the size of the planet, and the similarities
that everyone on it share.
Videos
era! bookstore market by September,
Seibert said.
The videos feature established
actors such as Richard Kiley, Dean
Jones, Jennifer O'Neill and James Brolin
acting out the words of the Bible
in settings in Tunisia and Cape Town
that recreate life in the Middle East
in the first century. The director is
the South African filmmaker
Reghardt van den Bergh.
The "Matthew" video begins with
an aging Apostle Matthew, played
by Kiley, recalling the events he witnessed
as a young man. The film portrays
events in the life of Jesus as
described in the Gospel from his birth
to the resurrection. American actor
Bruce Marchiano plays Jesus as being
filled with warmth and humor, in
contrast to the somber demeanors of
many actors who have played the
role .
The "Acts" video tells the story of
the young Christian church, with
Jones in the role of the physician
Luke. The conversion of Paul, the
martyrdom of Stephen and the minis-
Gatherings
try of Peter are all dramatized .
Company officials say they chose
these biblical books as the first in the
series based on their ability to be
translated word for word to the screen
and keep viewer interest. They say
they realize it's going to be a lot
tougher making a compelling film out
of books such as Leviticus, where long
passages are devoted to spelling out
the details of religious laws and rituals
.
But their goal is to have 66 books of
the Bible on video within 15 years,
and to eventually reach 1 billion people
with "The Visual Bible."
More than 90 percent of American
homes have Bibles, and research
indicates that people are 20 percent
more likely to want to see something
rather than read it, according to Visual
Entertainment.
"It's a book people have. Whether
they read it or not, they have one,"
Seibert said. -
Now, if the company's plans go
ahead on schedule, by sometime
early in the next millennium,
whether or not people have read the
Bible, they can see the video.
For information on "The Visual
Bible" call (800)673-1596.
~i~~t 9f ~ngels
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FOR THE
JOURNEY
SecoSntdo ne The National Ecumenical And
Evangelical Newspaper About Being
Gay And Christian
Response
Letters
Seattle, Washington
Mother of gay
man proud of her
Baptist pastor
Dear Second Stone:
I am writing concerning your article in
the Jan / Feb'% issue about the four
Baptist churches disfellowshipped
by the Western Region of Amencan
Baptists .
I attend Seattle First Baptist
Church where Dr. Rodney Romney is
pastor. I thought you might be i~terested
in what Dr . Romney wrote m an
We welcome your
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SECOND STONE Newspaper, ISSN
No. 1047-3971, is published every
other month by Bailey Communications
, P.O. Box 8340, New Orleans,
LA 70182, secstone@aol.co m. Copyright
1996 by Second Stone, a registered
trademark.
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SECOND STONE, a national ecumenical
and evangelical Christian
newspaper with a specific outreach to
gay, lesbian and bisexual people.
PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Jim-Bailey
open letter to a colleague in ministry:
"I know you gave strong leadership
for the removal of [ the gay-affirming
churches from the regional association
.] I know you have a large church
and that you have the reputation of
being a strong preacher. But I also
know that many are hurt by your ministry
. I am referring here in general
to that ten percent of the human population
that through no choice of
their own are destined to be gay or
·lesbian, and specifically to the four
American Baptist Churches in the
Bay Area that you ardently and
zealously helped get removed from
the .region. I am totally unable to
believe that ministry allows us the
options to hurt anyone knowingly and
willingly ... . .
"Once again we have given the
world at large more reason for writing
off the church as an institution
totally out of step with its times ancj
critical and unsympathetic to the
human burdens that others carry ...
" ... ! can only hope that someday you
will wake up to the sad reality that
what you helped the churches of
Northern California to do on January
6, 1996, will not be marked as a victory
for Jesus but a day of reg~ession
when his body was once agam sundered
by earnest people whose love
was not as large as his."
I am a subscriber to your newspaper
and the mother of a gay son. It gives
me a great deal of comfort to attend a
church where Dr. Romney is the pas tor,
and where my son is always we!-
SEE LETTERS, Page 17
c.flf.. Pontius' Puddle
- - - -- --- - -- ·~ ·-·- - -----
Commentary
Take your stand against
ignorance and intolerance
By Rev. Mel White
Keeping In Touch
WHEN I STILL LOOKED good in
short pants and a bare chest, those
many moons ago, my family camped
on the Merced River in Northern Cal-.
ifornia. I can still remember lying on
a grassy bank in the hot sunshine
staring at silvery, speckled trout
swimming in the crystal-clear
waters. One year, we were horrified
to discover that a factory upstream
had poured tons of toxic pollutants
into the water. The clean, uncloμded
current had turned murky yellow and
smelled of dead fish and chemical
sludge. Fortunately, the people who
lived on that river mobilized their
forces. They used petitions, lawyers,
a boycott, and the ballot box to save
their beloved stream.
As Minister of Justice of the Universal
Fellowship of Metropolitan Community
Churches, I have to say it
again: The souls of our various nations
are being polluted by a toxic cloud of
ignorance and intolerance against
God's gay and lesbian children that
leads directly to suffering and to
death. The primary polluters are
Catholic and protestant leaders so
committed to their current anti homosexual
course that they can't ·
deal honestly with the growing
mountain of evidence that homosexual
orientation is not a choice or
something to be changed, but a gift
from God to be accepted, celebrated,
and lived with integrity.
Are there pastors, priests, or poli ticians
in your town who pollute the
environment with their own toxic
flow of ignorance and intoleranc e?
Take your stand against the poison
that cripples and kills our sisters and
brothers. When you hear voices poisoning
the minds and hearts of your
neighbors, copy or tape the untruth to
have an accurate record. Then call,
write, or visit the polluter. Share
the truth in love ; If the polluter
refuses to hear you (in the spirit of
Matthew 18:15-17), then write a letter
to your newspaper editor , call
. your radio and television stations,
the mayor's office, the ACLU, th e
FCC, your local ministerial association,
the gay press, the good folks at
P-FLAG, and BCS4l@aol.com or
GLAAD. Mobilize a network 'of concern!
Do something, apything. Justice
is at stake .
We cannot be silent while'poisonous
clouds of untruth spew forth. It's our
·stream, too. Let's work to see that the
water turns crystal-clear again.
Noah revisited
By Rev. Roger Wharton
Guest Comment
THE BIBLI€AL STORY of Noah
speaks to our human responsibility to
be careful stewards of God's Creation.
"God said to Noah, 'I have decided
that the end has come for all living
things, for the earth is full of lawles~;,
ness because of human bemgs.
(Gen. 6:13 NJB) Notice that God's
decision rests on God's evaluation of
WHA.,-oo voo
MEAIII. vou•~i:
L~C."n,SE' 7
IN"\Oi..ERAN.,- ·
human behavior and how it has
affected all of creation. Noah then
learns that he has found favor with
God and is to build an ark so that he
will be saved from the floods to come.
Noah, however, is to learn more ....
No matter how righteous Noah feels
in his se lection by God, he soon discovers
that he is to take his family
SEE COMMENTARY, Page 24
classif. cate with (not to), someone unprejudiced and
concerned about justice, especially as related
to prisons . Please write Kenneth Johnson
#5 15059, F-3, Route 2, Box 4400, Gatesville,
TX 76597. TF .
BOOKS/PUBLICATIONS
SUBSCRIBE TO THE ADVOCATE (The
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Send CK/MO to: Bill Smith, Ben Hur Publi-
COMMENTARY,
FromPage23
with hiin on the ark. In this, Noah
and humankind should see that th ere
is no salvation or wholeness without
community . Ne xt, Noah is instructed
to load pairs of all the living animals
on board. The lesson here is that
there is no salvation without ecological
w holeness.
When the floods are over and the
earth is ready for habitation again,
God establishes a covenant, not just
with human beings but with all of
creation . God goes on to say
that the rainbow is set in the sky as a
reminder of that covenant between
God and every living creatur e on
earth.
It seems that human beings have
forgott en the lesso ns of Noah. Many
think that they · are complet_e unto
themse:'les and nee d to remember
that salvation and wholeness is found
within our relationship to others in
the global human community. The
human community, however, is not
the total picture. Real wholeness can
only be experienced within an ecolog~
ical wholeness.
As members of the lesbian/ gay
community we have chosen the rainbow
as our symbol of recognition
much as the early Christians u sed the
"fish" symbol. In choosing the rainbow
we recognize the dignity of
every human being and ex pr ess
willin gness to be open, inclusive and
to re spec t diversity. Let us also take
that one step furthe r and re-connect
with the natural world working and
pra ying to pres erve the diversity of
plant s and animals.
As Christians and as global citizens,
let us work for world understanding
and peace between individuals and
nation s. As God's steward s of crea
tion, let us each b ecome a person
who cares deepl y for the eart h and
God' s creatures and works for
ecological wholeness.
Rev. Roger Wharton works to connect
Christians with their Biblical and Christian
Nature Wisdom Tradition through a
newsletter, retreats, and special activities.
For information about Wilderness Manna's
Christians in Communion wit/1
Creation organization you can contact
him at 1404 Arnold Ave., San Jose, CA
95110. 408-451-9310,
( eun roger@aol.com).
cations, P.O. Box 58336, Louisville, KY
40268,0336. Renewals encouraged. Ques tion
s: 502-935 -7190 . . 6 /96
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WARNING REGARDING PRISON CORRESPONDENCE:
While most prisoners seeking
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GENERAL INTEREST
CAN'T GET TO CHURCH? We'll come to you
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PAGE 24 • SECOND STONE MAY/JUNE, 1996
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ORGANIZATIONS
INDEP ENDENT CATHOLIC religiou s order.
Men/women, lay/cle rical, gay/ non-gay .
Optional ce libacy, non-residential, ec umenica
l. Ordination possible . Fa ther Abbot ,
O rder of St. John the Divine, 166 Jay St.,
Albany, NY 122IO.
CHRISTIANS IN COMMUNION with Creation.
An Organ ization for "Green C hristians."
Me mbership with monthly mailings,
$35. Roger Wharton, 1404 Arnold Ave., San
Jose, CA 95110. 408-451-9310.
BECOME A PRIEST. - Gay, Lesbi an and
Bisexu~I persons, serve God and Community
as a Priest External program leads to valid
ordination. A n incardination process is
available for those already in Orders. Those
interested in this program for personal fulfillment
without interest in ordination may
also ·reply. EACA - Vocations, 2401 Artes ia
Blvd., Ste. #1 06-213, Redondo Beach, CA
90278.
CONFERENCE FOR CATHOLIC Lesb ians
(CCL) is a national organization for lesbians
of Catholic heritage . Qua rterly newsletter.
Supportive network. Advocates for lesbian
issues in political and Chu rch forums. For
member s hip information please co ntact
CCL-SS, P.O. Box 436 , Planetarium Station,
New York, NY 10024, (212) 663-2963, FAX
(212)268 -7032.
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