Rev. Dr. David P. Bahr

Rev. Dr. David P. Bahr
United Church of Christ
Cleveland, OH

Archwood United Church of Christ in Cleveland, Ohio, took a risk over 14 years ago to call me as an out gay pastor – the first church in Ohio to do so. Since 1993, Archwood has grown into a vibrant Open and Affirming, multiracial, multicultural congregation actively engaged with its urban neighbors in need. Half the congregation is LGBT; one third of the church is African American, plus Hispanics and Asian Americans. We also have a sizable Sunday School, including senior high youth and a seminarian. It has been my holy privilege to carry the sacred responsibility of ministry with this great group of people.

This stole was given in celebration of the United Church of Christ's 50th Anniversary, and for the refuge that the UCC has offered for so many GLBT clergy.

David Lohman
IWR and Faith Work Coordinator
National Gay & Lesbian Task Force's Institute for Welcoming Resources
Home of the Shower of Stoles Project
2007