AMERICA 'S GAY & LESBIAN CHRISTIAN NEWSJOURNAL MA Y / J U N E, 1 9 9 3 ISSUE #28 _ HEARTFELT LOVE Couples participating in a mass blessing of rel ationships chalked their names on the street, encircled by hearts. Photo: Rev. Kittredge Cherry March was political, spiritual milestone BY REV. K IT T RED G E C H ERR Y L esbians and gay men made a spiritual and political breakthrough at the 1993 March on Washington for Lesbian, Gay and Bi Equal Rights and Liberation. We saw ourselves in a new way: an estimated one million strong, in all our diversity, proud to claim our identity and our rights. At the April 25 march we tested our wings and felt our power, and ·that exp erience will continue to transform and build lesbian and gay community globally in ways that we are just beginn ing to imagine . The rest of the world saw us in a new way too. The mainstream news media covered the March and related events extensively and with remark• able fairness, balancing images of doctors and drag queens. The reli• gious right ranted against us, this lime noting our organizational ability. For the first lime in history, a U. S. president sent a letter of support to a march for lesbian and gay rights . Almost every person who talked with me, every face I saw, glowed with a kind of wonder . It began when I boarded a plane to Washing· ton, D.C. 'The whole plane's queer!" exult ed a fellow passenger. On t he plane , on the subway, On the str eets of D.C., strangers greeted each other. Or, more accurately, we were not strangers to each other. My most memorable moment came during the March, when I stepped onto the main afternoon stage on the Mall wit h Rev. Troy Perry, founder SEE COVER STORY, Page 10 Thousands circle Capitol grounds to demand action on AIDS crisis ·: WASHINGTON, D.C. • More than 30,000 people join ed ACT UP /DC's "Ha nds Around the Cap itol" dem on· stration on th e day prior to the March on Wash ingt on, joining hand s to s urround the Capit ol build ing, de• mandin g Congressional action on the AIDS cr isis. Stretching thousand s of feet of red ribb on a round the Capito l grounds, the protestors formed tw o complete human rings w hile chanting "AIDS cure now!" and "Act up ! Fight back! Fight AIDS!" Fo llowi ng th e d em ons tratio n, . aut hor and AIDS activis t La r ry Kramer spoke to the cr owd from the steps of the Capitol building. Also speaki ng w e re Cornelius Baker, cofounder of Brother Help Thysel4 Bill Freeman, executive director of Na· tional Asso ciation of People with AIDS, Chr istopher fjates, director of t he DC CARE Consort ium, Vivian Torres , New Jer sey Womans AIDS Network, Tommy Fabregas, board member of the San Francisco AIDS Founda tion, and Jennifer Chamb ers, ACT UP LobbyCorps coordinator_. "Han ds Around the Capito l" wiis th e largest AIDS-specific action dur· ing the weekend. During the March on Su nday, hund reds of ACT UP me mb ers staged a "d ie-in" a t _the White House along the march route . More March stories on Page 11 BULK RATE U.S. POSTAGE • PA I D NEW ORLEANS, LA PERMIT No.' 511 From the Editor •· ......................... . Liars silenced for a day By Jim Bailey -yhe 1993 March on Washington for Lesbian, Gay and Bi Equal Rights and Liberation was about truth - being true to ourselves, our families, our communities and our nation. "We have come to speak the truth of our -lives and silence the liars," said Urvashi Vaid, former director of the National Gay and Lesbirui Task Force, in an address to demonstrators. So, what did the liars have to .say about that? Less than 16 hours after the conclusion ofihe March, Pat Robertson cautioned his 700 Club viewers to send their children out of the room bec.ause there was video corning up that they su~ely wouldn't want the kids to see. The show's strategy in dealing with gay and lesbian issues is to disgust and scare, usually in that order. Disgust then scare. Of course the disgusting scenes are predictably the same_. (Some of us were not dressed in our Sunday clothes and were not at our best behavior.) Vaid is a powerful speaker. A tape of a portion of.her speech was the scary part of the 700 Club segment. When you listen to her, you are sure you are hearing the truth, you feel the urgency of correcting wrongs, and you feel aware of your personal power to work for justice. The March was a bridge, Vaid said . " ... on this day, with love in our hearts, we have come out, and we have come out to build a bridge of understanding, a bridge of progress, a bridge as solid as steel, a bridge to a tand where no one suffers prejudice because of their sexual orientation, their race, their gender, their religion, or their human difference." Yes, that was the scary part for the religous right. As we build our bridge to freedom, we see their construction on the· other side . They build toward power, s.ocial control, and a theocratic government. They are skilled at organizing, putting their numbers together and getting to work. On April 25th, they discovered that we are skilled at organizing, putting our numbers together and getting to work. Both bridges are being built on the same site, and only one can stand. 'To defeat the right politically is our challenge when we leave this march," said Vaid. "We've got to march from Washington into action at home." But with their recent failure in the national political arena, the . wounded religious right is also renewing concentration on action at home, with the more fanatical condeming mainstream politics and mumbling ·about recons\ructionism again. Vaid concluded by saying, '"When all of us who believe in freedom and diversity see this gathering, we see beauty and power. When our enemies see this gathering, they see the millennium . Perhaps the religious right is right about something. We call today for the end of the world ... as we know it. We call for the end of racism, sexism, bigotry, violence, discrimination and homophobia." On this day the viewers of the 700 Club were not· so disgusted by a man dressed in a nun's habit as they were scared of a woman dressed in .armor. SECOND STONE Newsjm1rnal, ISSN No. 1047-3971, is published every other month by Bailey Communications, P. 0. Box 8340, New Orleans, LA. 70182. Copyright 1993 by Second Stone,a ·registered trademark . SUBSCRIPTIONS, U.S.A. $15.00 per year, six issues. Foreign subscribers add $10.00 for postage. All payments U.S. currency only. · ADVERTISING, For display advertising information call (504)899-4014 or write to · P.O. Box 8340. New Orleans, LA 70182. · EDITORIAL, send letters, calendar announcements.noteworthy items to (Department title) Second Stone , P.O . Box 8340 , New Orleans, LA 70182. Manuscripts to be returned .should be accompanied by a stamped, self addressed ·envelope. Second Stone is otherwise not responsible for the return of any material. SECOND STONE, an ecumenical Christian newsjournal for the national gay and lesQian community. PUBLISHERIEDfTOR: Jim Bailey CONTRIBUTORS FOR THIS ISSUE: Rev, Kit Cherry. Rev. Richard B. Gilbert, P . D. Sterling, Christine . Coughlan. Toby Johnson, J. Russell Kieffer, Kevin Gepford, Texas Fitzgerald, Kenny Dayton, Br. Ron Crepeau-Cross , B.M.G. Contents m lj! _J From The Editor March speech scares religious right Commentary/Letters Could it be? Jerry Falwell right about something? News Lines Into Africa P. D. Sterling gets a first hand look at a beautiful -but troubled - land Gay People as Monks and Mystics We are especially suited to the roles, says Toby Johnson Cover Story Gay and lesbian Christians at the March By Rev. Kit Che_rry Volunteer Follows His Heart J. Russell Kieffer on his volunteer experiences at Benedict House in Buffalo The P-ath of the Journey . The risk, the joy, the gilt and the growth By Christine Coughlan On Video Walk Me To The Water Reviewed by Rev. Richard B. Gilbert 1.1·-5-7 In Print : : Someone You Know L~ Reviewed by Kevin Gepford i----7 i 16 J Calendar , - ;;;;-i I lu Noteworthy ~ -7 U19 Resource Guide ~ I 20 I Classifieds ___ _ _ _________ _ _ _ ':_-:._-:._-:._-:.._-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-~_-_ ... _ m Second Stone•May/Jwie-:-j993 [_....:,_, T .Comment T ................................. ........................................ ( Maybe Jerry Falwell is right By Kenny Dayton Guest Opinion The morning after President Clinton's inauguration, I awoke very early in front of my television where I had fallen asleep watching the festivities in Washington honoring our new leadership. Just viewing the parties and people and attitudes the night before made me feel good about my country again. And as a gay man, it gave me hope for our future. Maybe with our efforts and President Clinton's commitments, we can change attitudes in the United States . It won't be easy and it won't happen overnight, but we all have to agree that the best opportunity in years is at hand! My elation soon turned to pessimism, as my eyes focused on the television screen and I recognized the self-appointed voice of the ultraright... Jerry Falwell. For 45 minutes I sat and listened to him spout off about abortion and homosexuals, with a very heavy emphasis on the latter. As a Christian who happens to be gay, I have always found it interesting to listen to people such as Falwell, Robertson, Wildmon and the like tell us about God, and the way they interpret the Bible. Almost without fail, they all preach to thousands of listeners who accept what they say without question or research of their own. Let's face facts. Many members of religious organizations are the proverbial sheep who follow their leader without question. They will mail letters to a television network about what they are told is an offensive show without ever having seen the program ... because the minister said to do so! They will · boycott the sponsor's product ... because the minister said to do so! They will vote for ballot issues like Amendment 2 in · Colorado not because of how they feel... but because they were told to do so by someone they trust and respect. Unfortunately for us, and the Christian community as a whole, generations of misinformation and prejudice are being furthered by people of God who refuse to examine the scriptures and search for the truth about such YourTurn ............... ....... . • ...... • ....... . Praise for Hugman's essay Apple Valley,.California Dear Second Stone, Your March/ April issue contained some of the best articles I have ever read concerning Christianity and Gays. Nancy Hugman's "The Price of Freedom" addressed the subject of just how far we should go from the pulpit on political issues. Very informative. Joe Miller's article on Germantown Mennonite Church in Philadelphia brought tears . It struck a very deep place. Our minister of music, Merlin Schrock, who is a Mennonite, is visiting his home in the midwest and intends to have a visit with his pastor there to address some iss.ues concerning Gays and their church. A friend of the family who had attended the church just passed away with AIDS and Merlin does not approve of the way the church handled .it. Hopefully, he will have some success raising their consciousness a little. Thanks so very much for such an informative publication. In His Love, Donna R. Campbell, Pastor Ligl1t of the Desert Church Commentary lacking in Christian attitude Long Beach, California Dear Second Stone, I am renewing my subscription without as much enthusiasm as in the past. Having just caught up with my reading, I was surprised to find the Commentary by Ivy Young in the September/October issue. Her essay was lacking totally in Christian content, let alone attitude. That you would print something so hateful, so plainly political is dismaying. How ironic that we who have been the victims of hate would think that we can win rights, let alone love, by exhibiting the same kind of hate once used against us! Is that really what it means to be a gay Christian? What happened to "love your neighbor as yourself" and all the other related teachings of Jesus? Sincerely, Don Karvelis issues as homosexuality. This particular morning, the good Mr. Falwell had a speech impediment tI{at would not permit him to mention homosexuals without hyphenating Sodom and Gomorrah to it. You can only imagine how many times in 45 minutes he used "homosexualitySodom-&- Gomorrah" in his message. Regardless of what he says about "loving the sinner ," his message that morning was filled with bigotry and hate-mongering. We are what is wrong with this country! We are responsible for every social ill from AI~S to the breakup of the family . . And now we have the audacity to want to be treated as any other functioning member of society and treated as equals as the constitution of this great country guarantees ... · and even serve · in its military to defend those rights. This country is on the edge of becoming Sodom & Gomorrah according to Mr. Falwell. If the good Mr. Falwell would examine the scriptures with an open mind, he would find that "on the edge" is not quite accurate. According to Ezekiel 16:49 it appears as if SEE COMMENT ARY, Page 6 First Galileo, then Gays? By Br. Ron Crepeau-Cross. B.M.G. Guest Opinion The unprecedented pronouncement by Pope John Paul II last fall, stating that the Church was wrong when it condemned Galileo in the 17th century, has major theological and pastoral implications and gives new hope to millions of · gay and lesbian Christians and to those who minister to them. In 1633; the Roman Catholic Church found Galileo "guilty of vehement suspicion of heresy," for teaching that the earth rotates around the sun, not the other way around. Of course, the astronomer was right, but the Inquisition nevertheless threatened to burn him at the stake unless he recanted his proof'of the Copernican theory . - The pope said the Galileo case was an example of "tragic, mutual incomprehension" that showed the limits of theology and science. He said the ecclesiastical judges acted in good faith, but were "incapable of disassociating faith from an age-old cosmology." John Paul attributed the Church 's error to an overly literal interpretation of the Bible. He said that science, with its methods and freedom of research, obliges theologians to examine the way they interpret scripture, but that "most of them did· · not know how to do · so." He emphasized · that scriptural interpretation must go beyond literal meaning. · The Pope acknowledged that the Church has learned from the Galileo case and said it illustrates "the duty for theologians ' to keep themselves regularly informed of scientific advances" so they can determine Write to Second Stone. All letters must be original and s_igned by the writer. Clearly indicate if your name is to be withheld. We reserve the right to edit. Box 8340, New Orleans, LA 70182 or FAX to (S04)891-7555. whether there is cause for "introducing changes in their teachings." The Church already admits that affectional orientation is "not freely chosen," but persists in stating that homosexual acts are "intrinsically morally disordered." In other words, "It's okay tci be a bird, but it's a sin to fly." There is growing evidence, in the antropological and behavioral sciences, and the psychiatric and psychological professions long ago concluded; that affectional orientation is genetic and natural, and it follows .that its expression, whether heterosexual or homosexual, likewise sho11ld be considered ·normal and morally acceptable. The Church's position on this issue is based largely on the interpretation of certain biblical passages . Jesus Himself never said a ·single word about it, but ancient traditions, such as the Levitical code, do list same-sex relations among the prohibited "abominations," and the · New Testament proceeds on the same assumption. Now that the pope, in reversing the Galileo verdict 359 years later, has so clearly advised that once-believed exegetes and tlieologians can be in error, and that they must conform their teachings to scientific findings, is it only a matter of time before Cardinal Ratzinger and his contemporary inquisitors catch up with the reality of sexual orientation and admit that they have been wrong on this issue as well? While we wait for another Vatican acknowledgement, ten percent of the entire human family, not unlike Galileo, remains violated by the Church . Fortunately, many of us have found the truth as revealed to us in our lived experience, , and . the primacy of our consciences already has exonerated us. These developments have given a whole new impetus to our ministry to our lesbian sisters and gay brothers. · Second Stone-May/June, 1993 w News Lines ........... •·.• ..................... ................... ' .................. . Clergy group refuses MCC membership 6MCC'i<EY WESr has been denied membership in the local ministerial association. "We didn't meet the moral standard that they came up with because we're queers," said Rey . Steve Torrence, eastor .of MCC Key West. "They didn 't let the Jewisn rabbi in, either, because he wasn t Christian." The recent hiring of Rev. Julia Seward enabled MCC Key West-to respond by forming a new ministerial association, Rev. Torrence said. "We began by contacting the loc~I clergy who ·weren't active in the other group," he said. Since then, some mempers of the older association have switched membership to the new organization , the .Key We sflnferfaith Council.'-Keeping in Touch Mother Teresa to open AIDS hospice in Atlanta. 6MOTHER TERFSA hopes to open a hospice in Atlanta, primarily for people with AIDS. Four sisters of her Missionaries of Charity are living in Atlanta and have started meeting clients at Grad}" Memorial Hospital's Infectious Disease Clinic who may need their care. Grady officials said that the sisters, with help of the Catholic Archdioce,;e of Atlanta, are searching for a building for the proposed hospice . Dr . Shame _ Sheehey , a doctor at the IDC, got the ball rolling for the hospice by sending a letter a year ago to Mother Theresa in Calcutta. - Southern Voice Students protest at Marquette . 6THE TOP ADMINISTRATOR of Marquette University, Milwaukee , agreed to meet with a J)rotest group that conducted a sit-in objecting to the-school's stance toward Gays and Lesbians. About 18 students and one alumnus approached the Rev. Albert) . DiUlio, president of Marquette, in a hallway March 15 as the demonstration began . Ther, presented him with a letter asking for-a meeting on the issue and also on the university s ·refusal to adopt a policy that would include sexual orientation in its anti-discrimination policy. DiUlio was advised that the group planned to sit down -and wait for a response to the -d;,mand_s. '.',Well, then :y:ou will nave a _long wait, and you will probably be arrested, he said . Sit _down and make yourselves -comfortable." About 50 minutes fater, however , DiUlio addressed the students and presented -them with a letter sa:y:ing the Roman Catholic school, for legal reasons, could not include the words "sexual orientation" in its anti-discrimination policy . -Associated Press Plan to prevent HIV transmission submitted 6THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION of Physicians for .Human Rights, the national organization of lesbian and gay physicians .and medical students, has called upon the Clmton administration to implement a three-part plan to reduce .the .spread of AIDS among gay and bisexual men. The group urged the government to launch innovative initiatives in the areas of educational campaigns aimed at gay and bisexual men, increased funding for scientific research, and funding for innovative and intensive support erograms for gay men and other high risk individuals that provide the ongoing emotional sustenance for difficult behavioral changes. Homosexuality not a sin, theologians say 6GOD APPROVES OF homosexuality as well as pf gay and lesbian marriages and parenting. That is the 1revailing belief of 19 distinguished theologians and religious leaders of ten differen faiths surveyed nationwide. Their answers , published in a booklet "Is Homosexuality a Sin?" were given"in response to a survey conducted by the Federation of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays in conjunction with the Metropolitan Washington Chapter of P-FLAG. "The enlightened answers from prominent Christian and Jewisn leaders will now help families reconcile their love of God and of their gay or lesbian loved one," said Mitzi Henderson, Federation President. Religious leaders and scholars surveyed include Bishop John S. Spong (Episcopal), Bishop Stanley E. Olson (Lutheran), Bishop Melvin Wheatley, Jr. (United Methodist), and Rabbi Dr. David Teutsch(Judaism-Reconstructionist). The booklet may be purchased from P-FLAG, P.O. Box 27605, Washington, DC 20038-7605 for 75¢ each. Now is the perfect time for CllTIIIG Lri IN PnmCIM Set in the Texa; Hill Count,y in the spring, this richlylayered novel is an enchanting saga of romance in the late 1800s AND an"insightful tale of psychological & spiritual awakening in the current day . .. truly a joy to read . The gay genre novels of Lammy-winner Toh)' Johnson, Pl■gu.e, Secret Matter, & Getting Life in Per1pective tell refreahing, life-poaitive atoriea-touching & wiae , lightly sexy & funny, reminiscent of movies like Gho/Jt. and Cocoon, 0-938743-17-1 $10 Toby Johnson's books are available at Liberty Books, the quali')' u:sbian & Gay bookstore,.gift shop, and Commuruty resource center in Austin, the gay heart of Texas. (512) 495 9737 (800) 828-1279 Featuring a wide selection of books & magazines in the newly emerging fields of lesbian & ga.y spiritualities and new paradigm thought. 1014 B Norlh Lamar . Elennth & Lamar Austln, Texas 78703 -Sponsor of 91,art 'l ~ire qay Afen ~ (jatkrings- [I] SC;CC>nd Stone-May/Jwie, 1993 Gays protest at Falwell's church MBOUT 35 PEOPLE picketed in front of the Thomas Road Baptist Church, the church of anti-gay crusader Jerry Falwell . The demonstration was sponsored by Lxnchburg, Virginia-based Gays and Lesbians United for Equality, with others joining in the protest from Richmond and Roanoke. Demonstrators wore. pink lapel tags saymg "Yes, Jesus loves me!" "They are not bad people. The}' need the Lord," Falwell told the congregation. "They've got every right to oppose us ancl ·they're doing it peacefully ." ()_rganizer Kelly McHugh, a former Lynchburg resident now living in Richmond, said she and others were outraged by Falwell's persistent attacks on Lesbians and Gays. Ms, McHugh accused Falwell of perpetrating hatred and violence toward people base<! on their sexual orientation. -Associatea Press · · Chicaao Presbyterians support gay ordination 6THE CHICAGO-AREA governing body of the Presbyterian Church (USA) voted 199-131 to ask the nationaf church to overturn the denomination's policy panning gay and lesbian ordinations. MCC's $3 million cathedral a "sad commentary" says Forum leader 6THE 1000-MEMBER Cathedral of Hope Metropolitan Community Church of Dallas, with it's sparklin~ new $3 million building, has upset some Texas conservatives. "It's a sad commentary' that a gay and lesbian church exists in "the buckle of the Bible Belt, " said Cathie Adams, president of the Dallas Eaple Forum. "We want to help them recognize their lifestyle as a habitual problem to them,' Adams said. ''They have not accepted that message ." - Southern Voice. Anti-gay activist says anti-gay tactics too extreme 6TONY MARCO, co-founder of Colorado for Family Values , the organization which Sf)onsored Amendment 2, resigned from the organization and condemnecl it for extremism, -which he fears will aid the gay movement. ~arco ·is disgusted by CFV's widespread use of the propaganda video Tfie Gay Agenda, a 20 minute film which gay and lesbian observers condemn ·as outrageously slanderous. Marco sa;ys use of the film will fuel hysteria and violence against Lesbians and Gays, which will in tum cause a backlash against-CFV and further the cause of gay /lesbian civil rights. CFV wuld self-destruct by "rubbing the faces of the state's l'eople in repulsive, extremist homosexual behavior;" Marco wrote in a letter to Will Perkins, the oilier co-founder of CFV. "You risk giving the gay activists ammunition to make their charge that Amendment 2 is what they've saicf it is: a hateful, fear-mongering and mean-spirited eiece of work," he continued. "You risk arousing violent animosity towards Gays, to-which Gay militants will react in kind, as extremists on both sides come out of ilie woodwork ... Yes, it is easier to nauseate than educate ." - Associated Press Chaos in ~nesset over claim King Davidwas gay MCCORDING TO THE Los Angeles Times, the Israeli Knesset exploded Feb 10, when Yael Dayan, one of the country's most controversial liberals, began insisting on equal protections for Gays and Lesbians in the Israeli army by implying that the biolical King David, considered the ideal Jewish leader, inay have had a homosexual relationship with Jonathan, a son of King Saul. Conservative members of Knesset interrupted Dayan, accusing her of blasphemy. One member of the conservative National Religious Party called Uayan "a foul and dirty creature" who "must take her filth and go." - GayNet Activists gather at "Fight the Right" summit MBOUT 250 GAY, lesbian and bisexual activists from ten states gathered in Denver, Colo., in March to strategize around countering far right attacks and discuss tactics for repelling Colorado-style anti-gay initiatives. "Fighting fhe Ri~ht: A Regional Strategy and Networking Conference,'' was held March 13-14 at Denvers Executive Town Inn. The conference was targeted for activists in the Northwest and Rock}' Motintain•regions, and was hosted by Equality Colorado . Currently, Oregon, Idaho, Washington , Michigan , California and Florida are facing some kind of anti-gay initiative, many similar to Colorado's Amendment 2. The Amendment passed last November and repeals an existing gay rights ordinance . Anchorage, Alaska, is facing a local gay rights repeal measure . A Midwest "Fight the Right" regional summit is planned for September . "For information contact the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, 1734 14th St. NW, Washington, DC, (202)332-6483. Bishop cancels homosexuality seminar · 6CATHOLIC BISHOP WILLIAM HUGHES of the Diocese of Covington, Kentucky , canceled a seminar about homosexuality, saying that "the timing was wrong ." One of tfie priests of the diocese who is now retired, Father Earl Bierman, was recent!}" accused of sexually abusing several young boys . Ed Stieritz, director of the Maryclale Retreat Center who helped organize the seminar , ~aid the bishop had receiv~d some ')~~alive comments about the J>lanned event. Greg Lmk, co-faahtator of the semmar, said I a like to go throu~h with 11 because it would show that homosexuality is not connected to pedophilia. - Associated Press Kansas minister leads anti-gay campaign L'IPOLICE ARE MONITORING protests by a minister who crusades against gay rights after he claimed to have received death threats. Rev. Fred W. Phelps , Sr., pastor of the Westb oro Baptist Church of Topeka, Kansas, is leading a series of protests which include carrying signs that read "Gays Deserve To Die." Officers were assigned to protect picketers affer a brawl broke out on a sidewalk. - Southern Voice Name change for Lutherans Concerned? 6LAUGHTER IS THE best medicine, they say .Membersof Lutherans Concerned/Seattle, apparently unhappy with the slow progress the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America has made toward justice for Gays and Lesbians , has suggested that the oganization's name be changed to,''~utherans Worried Sick." In selecting a one word name like ''Dignity" or "Integnty" the1.utherans considered "Anxiety." News Lines •••• ft •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Pope tells youths that chastity is the only way to fight AIDS Af'OPE JOHN PAULH told an audience .of youths in Uganda that chastity is the only proper way to stop th~ spread ·of AIDS. According to sol!le estimates, .one of eignt Ugandans 1s infected with the HIV-virus. The country's Anglican and Catholic bishops - Uganda is-40 percent Catholic - have fought efforts by the government and aid .groups to promote condom use to fight AIDS. 'The sexual restraint of chastity is the only safe and virtuous wa y to put an end to the -tragic plague of AIDS," the pope told thousands of_ singing and cheering young people. -Assoc,a1£d Press , Windstorm the "wrath of God" says gay rights opponent LIFORMER WASHINGTON STATE Senator Ellen Craswell , founder of a new lobbying organization called "Family in Touch," said that a wind storm that hit Washington.state on the day of President Clinton's inauguration was a sign from God. Craswell 1s a bitter opponent of gay/ lesbian people ana an activist in the "traditional famil}' values" movement. "It was the stormy wind that cut off power, man's power, closed clown thg legislature,". Craswell told the Seattle Times. "We believe it Was a significant sign that our all powerful Father, who raiseth the stormy wind, did so on In_auguration Day . The angry gusts seem to whip at everything in the1r-path, including the giant American flag over ilie KIRO studio - and the flag was rent in two. Oh, but that we might reach our wit's end and cry unto the 'Lord, .that he might bring us out of this darkness." -Seattle Gay News Religious right opponent attacked in office LIRUTH WILLIAMS, 48, a Colorado Springs therapist who opposes the religious right movement was attacked in her office by an mtruder . She was !m()Cked unconscious , and crosses were cut into her hands and clothing. She was sprayed with tear gas. Her office was ransacked and .her walls were spray painted with slogans "Seek Goo," "Stop Evil" and "Repent." -TWN Bishop: Don't teach "basic disorder" to students LITHE CATHOLIC BISHOP ofBrooklyn, describing homosexuality as a "basic.disorder," said city school leaders show a lack of "moral leadership" when they advocate its acceptance. In a telev-ised interview last week, Bishop Thomas Daily said he thought the avowed purpose-of the New York City school's "Children of the Rairibow" curriculum - which teacn es tolerance for Gays and Lesbians - was being obscured by an effort to "legitimize" gay lifestyles. In calling homosexuality a disorder, Daily said, ''Just look at them. I don't think you'll argue with me." -Southern Voice Alabama Episcopal bishop doesni-like church policy on Gays LIALABAMA EPISCOPAL churches will research sexuality while continuing to not ordain openly gay or lesbian ministers or aerrove same-sex marriages , the bishop said . ' The Right Re_v . Robert 0 . Miller said he w1J :upholi:f the ch91:ch's st~nd on Gays until there is a change. "I may not like it, but I'm a pretty 'obedient p_ersori,"ne said. Miller said he strongly believes Gays are entitled to the same rights as anyone else, although he does not "conaone _h◊mosexual activity. " -Soutlzern Voice - . KKK still mad about racial integration into the military · LICHAIR OF THE JOINT Chiefs of Staff, General Colin Powell, might be surprised to find the Ku Klu x Klan agreeing with him on the issue of Gays and Lesb ians in the military. The Grand Dragon of the Northwest Knights of th e Ku Klux Klan , headquartered in Tacoma, Washin g ton, had _this to say in a recorded message: "The KKK, which has many military veterans and oth er white .Chri stian patriots, -were morall :ir and scripturally correct when opposed to the abomination of race mixing in our armed forces. We are also rnorally and scripturally correct in our -current opposition to homosexuals in the military. The Hofy Bible is quite clear on both issues . We urge all members to contact their elected officials on the federal level and demand that all homo sexual pervert s be purged from the military. " -Seattle Gay News Church must apoloaize to gav pastor LIA SPECIAL REVIEW TEAM of the United Church of Christ"has re commended that a Chicago church writ e a ·1etter of apology _ to Rev . Dr . Timm Peters on, who filed a complaint with the Chicago Human Rights Commission against St. Nicholai UCC after he was refus ed employment as their interi"ril p astor when they learned he wa y gay . Th e Human Rights Commission will co ntinue its investigation. · Zap a fundamentalist on your Macintosh LIIF YOU'VE EVER DREAMED of vaporizing a rabid fundamentalist , your day has arrived. Gays, Lesbians .and others cart do just that with the introduction of GayBlade , the first fantasy role-playing game for gay and lesbian Macintosh computer user s. A product ofRJBest, a San Francisco based computer game company, the game is the firs t in a-selection of flames with gay and lesbian characters - and anti-gay villains . For information ca (415)206-1985. Former ex-gays sought for interviews Af'EOPLE WHO HA VE been involved in ex-gay ministries and who are inter ested in telling their stor ies are being sought for interviews for a book project . For information contact Restoration Ministries, P.O. Box-1123, Schenectady, NY 12301-1123. Anthology seeksubmissions LIBEDSIDE COMP ANIONS, Essex Hemehill's forthcoming anthology of short fiction by black gay rnen, is accepting s ubmissions. Hemphill hopes the anthology will challenge tne invisi6ility and silences that surround the lives and experiences of black gay men. For information send a stamped, self addressed e nvelope to Essex Hemphill, Aritliology 1993, 401 Wilshire Blvd.,.Ste. 700, Santa Monica, CA 90401-1455. Subscribe Today. A N D Y O U' L L N E V E R WITHOUT A FRIEND Y o _u R JOURNEY, BE FOR Second Stone The N.a ti on a I Gay and -- Lesbian Christian Newsjournal " -ES· ·-t - - ·--- -··-·--------------- ····~• ························•.•······~--- Begin my-s1o1BsGription to SECOND STONE for: [ ] One year (6 issues) $15.00 [ ] Two yrs. (12 issues) $25.00 [ ] Thr~e yrs. (18 issues) $.36 .00 NAME ADDRESS CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE. CHECK HERE I ] If a plain envelope Is required and add $2.00 per year. Allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of your first Issue. International subscribers add $10.00 per year , U.S. currency . Mail To: SECOND STONE, Box 8340, New Orleans, LA 70182 THANK YOU - --- -- _for_vour subscription support! Second Stone-May/June, 1993 l]J Hate, Lies arid . Videotape: Group witt·battle bigots with agressive media campaign A NEW GROUP has formed to fight anti-gay hale crusades and has kicked off its media campaign with the premier of "Hale, Lies and Videos tape," a _new videotape that exposes the propaganda tactics of the religious right. . The Gay and Lesbian Em_ergency Media Campaign (GLEMC) will produce . and distribute media that exposes the agerida of the religious right and promotes lesbian and gay visibility. GLEMC is a project of Testing the Limits, an -~ward-winning fih11making group based in New York City. One of GLEMC's first projects was the premiere of a new video, "Hate, Lies and Videotape." The video vividly compares ''The Gay Agenda" - a slick 19-minute documentary-style video that feeds on gay and lesbian stereotypes - with other hate propaganda films . such as ''The E.ternal Jew," a 1940 Nazi propaganda film. GLEMC charg(ld that Congressional and Pentagon resistance lo lifting the ban against Gays in the military is being fueled by 'The Gay-Ag~nda ." The videotape has been distributed to U.S. Senators, Representatives and to the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and is being shown . in military establishments around the country and abroad. Gay activists were . outraged to hear recently that Gen. Cir! Mundy Jr., · Commandant of • the Marines, ,had provided copies to the Joint C~efs. .''The Gay Agenda'' includes sensationalist images from gay pride events taken out of context and combined with statements from people purporting to be "medical authorities." The video is one of the . major weapons -in the Far Right's declared :Holy War" against Lesbians and Gays. · T1ie Washington Post described 'The Gay Agenda"-as, "Men in G-strings gyrate to pulsating music on the back of a flatbed truck rolling slowly down an American street. Bare-breasted women parade by children sitting on their parents' shoulders. A medical doctor explicitly describes what he says are the . unhealthy sexual acts practiced by homosexuals." The official viewings of ''The Gay Agenda" are "a 'disgusting and outrageous misuse of taxpayer time and mo_ney," said Am1 Northrop, executive clirector of GLEMC and former CBS producer . "We will fight the religious right with an information campaign fo show America that attacks on Gays and Lesbians are attacks on human clignily and freedom." "The Gay Agenda" video was . produced by the Springs of Life . charismatic Christian church in Lancaster, Calif., the same church that made news for re-ordaining Jim Baker . after he had been accused of stealing rriillions of dollars from unsuspecting followers. The tape was · GE sells aerospace division INFACT calls off GE boycott AFTER SEVEN years of growing public pressure, General Electric, th e corporate giant which owns NBC-TV ai\d sells home appliances, decided to get rid of its nuclear weapons division - despite the fact that it was a moneymaker. INF ACT, .the international corporate accountability group that waged a seven year boycott of the General Electric Co. declared victory on Friday, April 2, when GE closed the sale of-its aerospace division to Martin Marietta . "GE has reacted to the concerns of millions of people," said INF ACT Executive Director Elaine QUOTABLE "Your silence will not protect you." -Audre Lorde , . []J Second Stone-May/June, 1993 Lamy, who called for an end to the boycott. Over 4 million individuals and 500 organizations _worldwide . joined the boycott launched by INFACT, the -group best known for its effective 1984 boycott of Nestle, which forced - that company to change its unethical mark eting of infant formula in developing countries. "Clearly, the success of the GE boycott shows that grassroots efforts can mak e a difference," said Lamy. In just over two · years, GE's medical division lost more than -$50 million in medical e.quipment sales. The pressur e on GE increased last year when INFACT won an Academy Award for _its hard hitfing documentary, "Deadly Deception: General Electric, . Nuclear Weapons, ·anu Our Environment. " Countless TV viewers -worldwide were urged to ·"Boycott GE" during the Oscars. Included among the 500 organizations that endorsed the boycott are Methodist Federation for Social Action, New Jewish Agenda, the Gray Panthers, and Clergy and Laity Concerned. released last October, with thousands of copies delivered lo Oregon and Colorado in time for those states' anti-gay initiatives. The tape is endorsed and promoted by Pal Robertson's Christian Coalition, and is · sold for $13.95 over Robertson's "700 Club" cable show. The Rev. Jerry Sloan of Sacramento told T11e Latest Issue, "Our community · does not take the film seriously enough: We don't see ourselves in the film," he sa'id and therefore do not think anyone could take it seriously. "I've seen films like this before," ·Rev. Sloan continued . ''But this is sensa' tional because this video was willingly and enthusiastically accerted and distributed by the Pentagon . GLEMC produced "Hate, Lies and Videotape" to expose and counter the fear-mongering tactics of the Far Right. It contains compelling compar- · isons between 'The Gay Agenda" COMMENT ARY From Page 3 th e greatest country in the world has already achieved its status · as the modern day Sodom & Gomorrah . We have not arrived at this turning point because of sexuality issues but rather because in the 1980's we duplica ted the sins that spelled the downfall of Sodom. "Now this was the sin of your sister Sodom: She .and h er daughters were arrogant, overfed, and · unconcerned; they did not help the · poor and needy ;" (Ezekiel 1(,:49. NIV) Arrogant - overfed . - unconcerned .... sounds a · lot like the "me ·first" attitude that prevailed in the Reagan era. and propaganda tactics of the Ku Klux Klan and the German Nazi movemen,. The tape also contains dramatic footage of gay-bashing victims and their attackers. Copies of the tape were distributed to the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the · major television networks, with more copies slated for distribution to the U.S. Congress . Loretta Ross, program director of the Center for Democratic Renewal, underscored GLEMC's contention that the religious right, whlch sparked campaigns against Jews and Blacks, is engaged in a campaign of bigotry against Gays. "When you're talking about the Christian Coalition, you're talking about the ones [Klan members] that don't wear the sheets." For more information about GLEMC and the videotapes, contact GLEMC, (212)229-2863, 39 West 14th St ., #402, New York, NY 10011. from the same sins specified in Ezekiel, our great land may indeed be doomed. We need to learn to care about others and their needs . We have to realize that many peopl e are in trouble and we who are better off are required to help them. We, as the wealthy nation we are, need to get concerned, squelch ciur arrogance, · ai1d share our abundance. Mr. Falwell, you · are correct: We must not allow our .country to fall any further into the Sodom & Gomorral1 pit. But to prevent that from happening we must first recogniz e the "Now this was the sin of your sister Sodom: She and her daughters were arrogant, overfed, and unconcerned; they did not help the poor and needy ." (Ezekiel 16:49 NIV) Arrogant - overfed - unconcerned .. . sounds a lot like the "me first " attitude that prevailed in the Reagan era. Consider the possibilites that exist . for change ... change for the better if we recognize that according to scripture the true sin of Sodom & Gomorrah was that they were the original yuppies , "Me and mine ... but none for thine!" ''The homeless want to be that way!" "But I have bills to pay ... I can't help anyone out!" There is always an excuse. And I'm sure that the residents of Sodom & Gomorrah has theirs too. Yes; Mr. Falwell, I too believe that Sodom & Gomorrah is at hand. · I · think that as a country where the majority claim to follow the teachings of Christ and the scriptures we need to recognize that if we do not turn true sin_s ai1d then join together to heal our errors. Continuing to dispense a very opinionated interpretation of the story of Sodom & Gomorrah will not bring us together tis Christians, nor .will it ever prevent those true sins from being dup1icated. Jerry, why don't you do the same thing that many of us out here who are gay have done. . Go into your closet, shut .the door, get down on your knees, and in faith ask God to . provide understanding . The answer . will give you either affirmation that you are correct or a whole new outlook. We are told to trust in God, not in man. I trust the answer I received. - . Centennial observance of original worldwide interfaith dialogue Chicago hosts Parliament of World's Religions LEADERS REPRESENTING man y of th e world 's religions and interfaith groups will gather in Chicago later this year for the Parliam ent of the World 's Religions, a week-long gathering which seeks to foster cooperation among the world 's religious communities and institutions . Th e conclave, which will be held Aug. 28 - Sept. 5 at the Palmer House Hotel in downtown Chicago and at other sites throughout the city, marks the centennial of the first World's Parliament of Religions held in Chicago in September, 1893. "At a time of increasing anxiety and strife, interfaith dialogue offers a way to unite people in working for peace and the relief of suffering,'' said Rev. Dr. David Ramage, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Council for a Parliament of the World 's Religions. "In particular, we must work to lessen religious conflict around the world." The goals of the Parliament of the World's Religions'are to promote understanding and cooperation among the world 's religious communities and institution s, assess and renew the role of the. religions of the world in relation to personal spiritual growth and th e challenges facing the global community, and develop and encourage interfaith groups and programs which will continue inter-religious cooperation into the 21st century. The Chicago observance will .includ e thousands of people representing all of the world's religions, including Baha'i, Buddist, Christian (Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Anglican, Protestant and others), Confucian, Hindu, Indigenous, Jain, Jewish, Muslim, Native Am erican, Shinto , Sikh, Taoist, Unitarian and Zoroa strain . Many of the world 's spiritual leader s will participate in t11e 1993 Parliament, inc_luding Nobel Peace Prize winners, the Dali Lama and Mother Teresa. The 1893 event , held during the Columbian .Exposition, was the first time that representatives of the world's major religions had ever held a formal meeting. The first Parliament marked the birth of the interfaith dialogue movement in the modern world, introduced Eastern · religions to .the West, established Catholicism and · Judaism as mainstr e~m American religions, and affirmed African-Americans and women as spiritual leaders. "In our time, the distinctions betweeri community and planet seem to have disappeared," said Daniel Gomez-Ibanez, Council Executive Director . • 'The health of the world depei"lds more than ever on the strength of communities and . their . . ability to live in harmony. During this summer's Parliament of the World Religions, we are committed !o building ways to live wisely together ." The Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions is a non-profit organization supported by more than 125 co-sponsoring organizations. Group joins in battle for gay/lesbian ordination WITH VIRTUALLY NO ONE in opposition, members of the Presbyterian Health, Education and Welfare Association vot ed to join the front lines in the battle for ordination rights for gay and lesbian Presbyterians. In giving near unanimous approval to four resolutions relat ed to the prolonged struggle for gay and lesbian ordination in the Presbyterian Church, the association brus hed aside concern s that taking such actions might jeopardize the association's structural relationship with its parent Social Justice and Peacemaking Ministry Unit. . A memo of understanding between the two groups gives the association the right to "responsible dissent" while working within the framework of the church's General Assembly policy. The executive director of the association is an employe e of the General Assembly. The. association receives about $80,000 from the ministry unit's budget. . Under ari agreement worked out INTEGRITY, From Page 11 Bishop of Utah. A large group from the Oasis, the gay and _ lesbian ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark, also marched with Integrity . When the Integrity contingent reached the small group of anti-gay PLGC, From Page 11 Janie Spahr's partner, read Luke 7. Worsfoppers dedicated their offering to the Mautner Project. Directed by Marianne Thatcher, with-Susan Hester as president, the project serves lesbian women who have breast cancer. A biblical. self defense course on lesbian, gay and bisexual concerns was sponsored by the National Capital Chapter of PLGC on Saturday preceding the March. _Led by the betw een the association's board of directors and SJP officials, no money from the unit or staff time by PHEW A executive director Rev. Mark Wendorf will be committed to the associatiot1' s effort to change the denomination's ordination policy. Prior to the vote on the resolutions, former PHEW A interim executive director Rev. John Scotland sketched . the hi.story of the r elationship between PHEW A and the denomina tion·· and outlin~d the dangers of takin g actions that run counter to current General Assembly policy. 'Ther e are those in the church who are waiting for us to make a· mistake. If we choose to give up our life on this, let's know it going in." During floor ·debate , Rev. Jane Spahr, director of a ministry v;:ith gay and lesbian persons and their families in San Rafael, Calif., rose and said, 'The cost to PHEW A may be 'money, but the cost to gay and lesbian people is death." Laurene Lafontaine of Denver, ptotestors across f~om the Treasury Building on Pennsylvania Ave., the homophobic taunts were drowned out by "We're here, w e 're · queer, we're Anglican, get used to it!" Rev. Lindsay Louise Biddle, the course examined passages commonly used to condemn homo sexuality, highlighted modern scholarship and incorporated several real life scenarios · that participants role-played. The course attracted over 70 people from many denominations and faith traditions. The Rev. Biddle is a member of th e Twin Cities Area Presbytery in Minnesota and is a former Student Associate at Westminster Churci1. Colo., added "If we kow-tow on this issue, then our commitment to justice is empty. If we act out of fear, then we are standing on sand . If we stand on the rock of justice, God will take care of us." its board of directors to monitor the introduction of similar legislation in other states and to alert synods and presbyteries in those states where such legislation is introduced . The In a related action, the association approved a resolution urging the overturning of Amendment 2 in Colorado. The association also asked · group also approved a resolution supporting President Clinton's deci. sion to / nd the ban on gay and lesbian persons in the military. -More flight Update/News N \ ~ \ \ \ Featuring '~ three key- , \ \ · \ \ \ I no te sp eakers, ', g~ea r music, spe- · ', ', This year's ConnECtion takes place in the San c1al workshops and \ small groups where ', you ci~ discussyourp er- ', ', Francisco Bay Area of California and runs , from: sonal issues as a lesbian or \ gay Christian. ', \ \ \ Workshops include topics, like: • Coming out • Living with HIV/AIDS • The "ex-gay" movement • Dating-and relatio nships . • Dealing with parent s and family \ \ \ \ ' \ ', Friday, July 2 to Mo11day, July 5 \ \ • ', Keynote speakers: \ • Rev. M. Mahan Sil~r, Jr. ", • Ms. Patricia V. Long \ , , • Dr. Ralph Blair \ \ • \ • • A great place to • Understanding spiritualio/ and sexuality \ \ \ • \ meet friends! \ \ Also ... BayAreaauthorarrdcomposerJackPanraleo, • \ • \ .. will present the. musical: The Gospel According to the _ ''- __ Angel Julius! \ \ For ·more i nformation plC~se ~end your name and address to: .ECWR P.O. B~x 4750, • Denver, CO 80204 ConnECcion '93 is produced by Evangelicals Concerned Westerri Region, a non·profit 9rganizarion that positively unites lesbian/gay-sexual!ty with Biblical Christianity. \ • '93 Christian visitor feels a burden for a troubled land INTO AFRICA BY P. D. STERLING In North America we are far from the pr_ oblems and _opporturu· ties in South Africa. We depend upo!l second-hand information. My rec~nt visit was an eye-opener as much as it was a blessing. One reason I am so convicted of the need for people to learn about South Africa is that I think the problems there can and will be · overcome. I urge everyone to study or visit.. , In addition to the ongoing injustice toward ethnic groups, there is hatred aimed at Gays and Lesbians as well. Recently, a gay restaurant in Johannesburg was firebombed and activists say rightest extremists are responsible. The restaurant had been the subject of intense harassment by police, neighbors and a white supremacist group. To prepare for writing this article, I called a friend who • is a native of South Africa. They recommended a movie called 'The Power of One," to focus my thoughts. It was so shockingly violent, I did not sleep well for a couple of nights. I am not going to discuss the movie in depth, but you may be interested in renting it. The plot deals with the life of a protagonist and his unique experiences, which raise his consciousness to the needs _ of ·humankind. How he develops coping skills is the thread tha.t weaves thoughout the story. And there isn't the happy ending .I would like to see, but there is an ending of strong hope for tomorrow. The reason it bothered me was that,: rather than being able 'to say, "It's only a movie," I felt . convinced the events were 100 percent plausible and did, in fact, happen to sqmeone, if not the characters portray~d .. My entire stay in South Africa was a time of blessing, even when I was bickering with my host. The first cultural opportunity I had was with language differences. I got a sml!ll book to learn a few words of Afrikaans. When I arrived in Durban I found that the province of Natal is the most British of the four and I did not need to know any Afrikaans. Then my host informed me I had been billeted in a neighbor's home, to act as house-sitter 'while they were away. I'm not underfoot, can come and go, and I have two · domestic workers to cook and care for my clothes. Ah, but they don't speak English! People who know me understand what I mean when I say I don't intend to spend several weeks of grunting and pointing as a means of communication. Immediately, I began learning basic words and phrases in Zulu. For instance, I learned that when you leave home you say "Sala Kahle," but the one you are leaving behind replies, ''Hamba Kahle." . Regardless of the language struggle, I have many happy memories. My first day trip from Durban was to the Valley of a Thousand Hills, where I ~wewcwwwowoo wo,vw;w M>tMtOM at oooco ee1tt o♦ :Nl>Mea O!Mt\lG>ertOQ . ' L8.SJeco ndS tone-May/June1, 993 got my first opportunity to witness. I met two Christians who operate a small restaurant by the side of a busy highway (most highways are busy, given the relative lack of interstatetype roads.) They related information about their small prayer circle, and asked Rev. Joan Wakeford to come for services in their area, 25 miles out in · the hills. A two-day retreat to the Drakensberg was one highlight of my trip . Since I didn't know exactly how far it was, it seemed like an interminable drive, maybe 125 miles from Durban. We stayed at the Royal Natal National Park for two nights . Another cultural experience was learning about the Ned Kerk, as the Dutch Reformed Church or Neder ·duits Gereformeerde Kerk, is called. It is the most prevalent in three provinces other than Natal (Cape, Orange Free State, Transvaa~.) Of course, there are more Anglicans in Natal. Unfortunately, I got the impression that these denominations have the same problems as others world-wide. Some are so institutionalized, they no longer respond to individual needs, and many free churches, small prayer circles and show-biz fellowships have been organized. The group I visited inDurban was a small prayer circle. At the time I was there, it was all women. However, I have received ·word that they have been successful in expanding to new . people of both genders. Just before my arrival, the first ever gay pride march in Durban took place. The concept of 100 men and . women marching for gay rights, in a city the same size as Daflas, was noted with surprise by many - 23 years after Stonewall! In Johannesburg, I had .the privilege to atten.d GCBJGCC. You have to get used to all acronyms in Afrikaans/ English. The gay Christian community is a full-fledged congregation with about sixty in services when I attended. Their services are bilingual, aithough the sermon is in English three out of four Sundays. I felt at home and at ease, though I was too self conscious to sing very loudly in Afrikaans. I didn't know if my host would be kind about my hatcl1eting his native language. The group has a professional approach to their worship committee, drawing fro!ll local talent. in various ' denominations. The Sunday I was there, , a Major from their local Salvation Army brought a warm and · stirring message of the all-inclusive love of God. Later, I visited Methodist and Ned Kerk bookshops as wejl as secular booksellers. Nothing by Boswell, Kushner, Mollenkott, Pennington, or Perry. I didn't expect a wide selection, but was surprised to see nothing at all. For this reason, I have been appealing for donations of books on theology, philosophy and grief management. Some folks in Africa may be bilingual, but they are still bound by a literal translation of Romans 1 and can't break away. I made a point to visit the Voortrekker Monument. It is awesome, indescribable in a few words. It tells the history of Afrikaner people and can give you a sense of their struggle. Voortrekker is usually translated as pioneer, however, that does not adequately compare or contrast the pioneers of the American West with those of Southern Africa. As citizens in a federal republic, I sometimes think people in the United States have no ken of what it means to be tribal. People in South Africa are tribal. This means their first Joy alty is to family and tribe. They may feel some sense of national loyalty, but they are often far removed from national differences. Most official signs one might read in public are bilingual, in Afrikaans and English. However, I noticed that signs put up by individuals were in English and Zulu. In the Post Office, I noticed posters were in Afrikaans, English, Shona, Sotho, Venda, Xhosa and Zulu plus a couple of languages I · couldn't figure out. To understand the political climate, one must recognize that Mr. Buthulezi heads the Zulus and Mr. Mandela heads the Xhosas. These are the largest black tribes. Most members of these groups are not well educated. In a general election today, they would merely vote in blocs, on advice of their leaders. The possibilites for unethical manipulation are unlimited. Various people claim to lead the Afrikaners, however I don't think anybody can claim leadership of the English. For this reason, it is difficult to establish coalitions needed for national government. In 'The Power of One," part of the plot line deals with the legend of the rainmaker. The rainmaker is one who is able to bring the rain, to cool the earth as well as its peoples, and to help people of all tribes live together in harmony. My concern is more about a predatory bird called the lammergeyer. This is araptor, large enough to snatch away a lamb, and is the South African equivalent of the North American coyote. I see the forces of evil in the world snatching away blessings for S.outh Africans, and feel that political solutions will _ never really work. _ The Spirit of God is the ohly force which can heal the tension. I hope to enlist people I meet to feel a burden for world missions and for South Africa ill particular. Perhaps somewhere in our missions, we will come across a rainmaker for that nation. P. D. Ster/ins is director of Silent Harvest Ministries. He may be contacted at Box 190511, Dallas, TX 75219-0511. '' I haven't had sex with anyone since December '84," an attractive gay man remarked to me recently. "It just isn't worth the risk." Perhaps unwittingly, a major consequence of the AIDS tragedy in gay culture has been an awakening of what might be called spiritual concerns. AIDS has resulted for many gay people in a premature acquaintance with death and a consciousness of the importance of serving the sick and the needy. Such awareness of the fragility and transitoriness of life has long been considered a foundation for spiritual development. The fact is that, regardless of what miracle cures may be found in the future, AIDS has changed gay life. The "ol' days" are never coming back. And the generation that championed them is growing older and with aging sex has a way of naturally becomi11g less important. But there has always been more to gay life than sex. "I've practically become a monk," the attractive gay man continued . As a former 'monk' myself, having been • 'like a·•disproportionately large percentage of gay men and women - in Catholic religious life for several years after high school, I was especially sensitive to his meaning. For . many years I've noticed that among openly gay people, especially activists, there have been a surprising number of ex-religious. It makes sense, of course; the gay movement has almost always been one of abstract principles of justice and fairplay, and the thankless devotion demanded by being open, resem_bles pure religious zeal. (During the late '70s, when hooded sweatshirts were an integral_part -oUhe gay costume, al least on Castro Street, it seemed like deep-seated monastic tendencies were showing up in fashion.) Today, "celibacy," a word imported from the monastic tradition, has become current among gay men to mean the decision not to be sexually active. Because we've grown up with Christian sex-negative attitudes, we tend to see "celibacy" as a great sacrifice . . But for homosexuals of the past, it may often have seemed like a real escape. from social pressures and a wonderful opportunity to develop personal interests. (For some today, like the sexually inactive _man I was talking with, "celibacy" may seem like a real escape from life-threatening pressures.) Technically, celibacy does not mean abstaining from sex. In terms of Catholic religious life, celibacy (the Gay People as - Monks & · Mystics BY TOBY JOHNSON obligation imposed by the vow of chastity and by ordination) is the obligation not to marry. -Of course, since that tradition taught that sex should only be enjoyed within marriage, celibacy de facto excluded sexual activity, including masturbation. Certainly that tradition was (and is) sex-negative, BUT the emphasis in celibacy was not avoiding sex but on avoiding marriage and family: Priests, monks, and nuns were enjoined to celibacy out of the observation that spiritual ideals were more likely to flourish freed from the dreams of the cycle of coupling and reproduction. (Could Jesus, for instance, have maintained his integrity and risked crucifixion if he'd had a wife and kids?) The .spiritual insight is that family values are deceptive - important, yes, but ultimately incomplete; the truth is that life is fleeting, immortality through offspring illusory, and material success is just dust in the wind. Celibacy and its sister virtue, poverty, were intended to pro-_ pel the spiritually-minded mdividual outside the concerns of normalcy. Historically, monasticism probably developed, in part, to provide a place for people . who 'didn't belong,' who had little or no interest in marrying and having children. In the Dark Ages, the clan/family (with the economic strength of primogeniture) was the center of everything. In the agrarian economy beset with constant warfare, offspring were everything. Men and worrien who didn'.t feel sexually driven lei marry and have children - who with insight we might guess were homqsexual - needed a place iii sodety. The monastery and convent gave them a legitimate role in society-- in · many -cases doing what gay people are still · espedally good at; teaching . children, i1ursing the sick, counseling the troubled, developing philosophical insights, brewing liqueurs, creating .art, and defining sensibilities and tastes·-. and providing them with an opportunity to develop same-sex communal relationships . It should not be surprising that in a world that by our standards was pretty hung-up on sex, these relationships would not be defined as sexual. At the same time, _the status of "non-breeders" allowed the monks a spiritual/ philosophical perspective, a critical stance, on society fro·m which - at least in theory - they could lead the masses in constructive direction (by developing universities, for instance.) In the book Ordi11ary People as Mo11ks and Mystics, northern Californian organizational psychologist Marsha Sinetar presents a contemporary reevaluation of the monastic identity. From interviews with modern day individuals who've opted out of the mainstream to live simple, ordered, perhaps solitary, but contributive lives, she distinguishes two motivations for choosing such an unconventional lifestyle. These correlate with the terms in her title: monks and mystics. The monks choose to free \hemselves of the pressure of financial, material - and sexual - pursuit. The mystics choose, in addition, to facilitate heightened aesthetic sensibilities ariccrri lfcal'stani:e on reality . (Obviously', there is ·overlap between the two.) Though the people Sinetar interviewed chose, rather un-monklike, to live alone, such like-minded individuals might join together - permanently or occasionally - in loose-knit community to support one another in a life of simplicity and consciousness development. Sinetar reminds us that simplicity of life, solitude, and silence have long · aided individuals in confronting the significant spiritual issues raised by personal isolation and the realization of impermanence and mortality . In very rough fashion, her categories correlate with major changes in gay life; the shift in sexual and relationship patterns and the concern with death and spiritual matters. Perhaps the tragedy of AIDS demands a major reevaluation of modern society with all its sexual demands, skewed values, pathogenic . pre.ssures ; a11d health-threatening emotional stress. Perhaps it might _ ··make-some of us ready to retire from the world in an age~old tradition and se.ek a simpler, saner life, "' For those of us who were;religious in our youths (even though, often, our real motive was to avoid having to deal with heterosexuality) monastic life may still be appealing. I think an awful lot of us would really like to go back if we could bring our gay identities and sophistication with us SEE MONKS, Page 20 . Second Stone•MaylJune, 1993 [I] '- . T Cover Story T ............................................................. . • ......... . -.Marching toward freedom From Page 1 and moderator of the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan .Community Churches; his lover; Philip; Rev. Paul Sherry, president · of the United Church of Christ; and his wife, Mary . The crowd stretched as far as I could see, engulfing the Washington Monument. Tears came tomy eyes. I felt like I was also standing with my gay male friends who had died of AIDS and my earliest lesbian friends . who had been imprisoned in mental hospitals to be "cured" of homosexuality. So many of us once lived in hiding. So many of us once believed we were sinners. So many of us once thought 'Tm the only one in the world ." The shame and pain of that isolation melted and · were replaced by this new image: Marching , to -· gether, a million strong. "This is the defining moment ·in · history for us," Rev. Perry said many times that weekend . "I look out today and think, we truly are the rainbow tribe . We're the minority that comes in all colors. We realize that prejudice still exists in our culture, but we gladly challenge such prejudice rather than retreat into the shadows of despair and ignorance. We will not be stopped as we take our rightful place as · children of America and children of God." The only other denomination heads al the March were Rev . Sherry and Rev. William Schultz, president of the Unitarian Universalist Association. Both spoke at a Sunday morning communion service at the Lincoln Memorial, sponsored by UFMCC. "We want to share with you, yes, your anger and your pain, but also your shimmering expectation of God's future," Rev. Sherry sai.d to more than 1,000 worshipers gathered that morning. "We commit ourselves to walk the walk with you and talk the talk with you until justice flows down like a mighty river." Rev. ,William Schultz proclaimed, 'The dam is breaking, freedom is coming, and we're all here.to give it a push.' '. Many other speakers made similar statements throughout the weekend, but the words · always seemed fresh and poignant ·coming from people who had lived by them. Thousands from the lesbian and gay religious community were visible at the March and the more than 300 related events. The official schedule included gatherings of Lutherans, Presbyterians, Unitarians, UCCers and Radical Faeries, as well as many interfaith worship services and Jewish shabbat and Havdallah services. Religious groups, number 44 in the marching order, all met at noon · 001 _s~μ~ Stone•May/Jun~, 1993· · Sunday in the same area under the hot sun near the Washington Monument to wait to join the March. This may well have been the largest . gathering ever of lesbian and gay people of faith, with at least 3,000 of us. At ten minutes past noon, a voice called from the morning stage, "We are marching! One ·million queers take over D.C.!" The crowd began to dance as music played, "You gotta have faith in the power of love." This was just one of countless times during the weekend when the language of faith was used by secular and political leaders. Religious leaders also used political language, focusing especially 'This is the defining moment in history for us," Rev. Perry said many times that weekend. "I look out today and think, we truly are the rainbow tribe. We're the minority that comes in all colors... We will not be stopped as we take our rightful place as childrett of America and children of God." on .fighting the religious right .and lifting the ban on Lesbians and Gays in the U.S. military. The gathering of religious groups was like a huge party, where people milled, mingled and met countless friends and colleagues for four hours before it was our tum to marcl1. The last marchers strode past the White House at 6:00 p.m. Joy was the prevailing emotion, but much justifiable anger was expressed during the weekend, too . Larry Kramer, founder of ACT UP, was the most voca l critic of the government's failure to take action. At one point, hundreds of marchers dropped to the sidewalk in front of. the White House for a seven-minute "die in" symbolizing the tradedy of AIDS. The crowd booed when it was announced that the U.S. Park Service estimated that only 300,000 people attended the March. Arguments over actual attendance will continue for weeks. The main counter-protestors of the March were, as usual, a handful of Christian fundamentalists . Marcl1ers w,:ilked past them, responding · with chants such as "Stop the hate!" Overall, the March was peaceful, with police reporting only four arrests. In addition to the March itself, the event that touched me most deeply was "The Wedding;" a massive blessing of relationships and de!llonstration for the civil rights of lesbian and gay couples. An estimated 8,000 people attended the April 24 event, including 2,100 couples who registered to receive certificates. Since The Wedding was sponsored by UFMCC, I ,had been involved in planning it for five months. Still, ·I was overwhelmed by the solemnity and joy of seeing thousands of lesbian and gay couples pledge their love. I felt deeply honored to meet couples UFMCC found through a nationwide search for the longest lesbian and gay relationships: Kay .Thompson, 69 · and Bob!,ie-Smith, 69, of Tampa, Florida, , together 33 years; and Du.sty Keyes, 66, and Jim Busby, 71, of Arlington, Virginia, together 46 years . I was delighted when couples spontaneously chalked their names on the street, encircled by hearts - a childhood ritual from which we were excluded. . As I reflect on the March, the words - of Psalm 118 come to me: 'The stone which the builders rejected has become the head of the corner. This is God's doing; it is .marvelous in our eyes. This is the day which God has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Rev. Kittredge Cherry is U.S. National Ecumenical Officer for the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches. . .. • ," -- :- - - :- :- - .- - - • r - , \ .. •O◄ffi•~iffi;JH=l•HPbJ-1=0Hdl•Hsishop Jane Holmes Dixon leads Eucharist Integritym emberst urn out THE RT. REV. JANE Holmes Dixon, Suffragan Bishop of Washington, celebrated and preached at a Eucharist sponsored by Integrity /Washington on April 23 as part of the March on Washington activities. Gay and J.esbian Episcopalians came from all parts of the country to attend the March. Bishop Dixon, the second female bishop in the Episcopal Church, USA and the third woman Anglican bishop worldwide, preached a strongly supportive sermon which was frequently interrupted with the usually un-Anglican sound of "Amen!" St. Thomas Church near Dupont Circle was filled beyond capacity and numerous people stood throughout the service. The bishop began her sermon by telling of the support she received in coming to the Integrity service from the diocesan bishop, the Rt. Rev. Ronald H. Haines. She also said that while having tea at the St. Thomas Rectory prior to the service, she wondered, "Was this a new beginning for the Church of God? There we sat in Jim Holmes· rectory: a woman bishop and an openly gay priest. Tl1ank God!" She was interrupted .with sustained applause. . The day of the March, many Integrity members joined for Eucharist at the historic St. John's Church, across Lafayette Square from the White House. · At the march, members of 27 of Integrity's 70 chapt ers marched with Integrity, while members of at least 20 other chapters marched with their state or other affinity groups. About 30 ordained Integrity members were part of the group, most wearing clerical collars. Also marching separately were students from the Episcopal Divinity School irt Cambridge, Mass., the church's most gay /lesbian-friendly seminary. Marching with them was their retiring dean and president, the Rt. Rev. Otis Charles, sometime SEE INTEGRITY, Page 7 Prer ~.ring to march with Integrity, left to right, Ernest Clay, life partner of D;. !..auie Crew, Dr. Crew, founder of Integrity and professor at Rutgers University, the Rt. Rev. Otis Charles, bishop and Dean of the Episcopal Divinity School, the Rev. Barry Stopfel, ordained as an openly gay man in 1991 and recently elected Rector of St. George's Church, Maplewood, N.J., and the Rev. David Norgard, ordained as an_ openly gay man in 1984 and Executive Director of the Oasis, the lesbian/gay ministry of the Diocese of Newark Presbyterians march to a new tune PRESBYTERIANFSO R LESBIANa nd Gay Concerns (PLGC) were well represented at the March on Washington. Members, elders, deacons and ministers from across the Presbyterian Church (USA) rallied with songs, "Jesus Loves Me" and "We Are A Gentle Angry People." They also sang a familiar hymn with fresh lyrics: uO nward Cl1ristians oldiers, marching for gay_r ights, From the mainstream With · (he cfos~4 J~sus, briif~ing forth more light. · Like a royal banner, leads us on the way, Forward• intoj ustice, lesbian, bi, gay." The Rev. Janie Spahr, a Presbyterian lesbian evangelist, preached prededing ·the March at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Washington. Hundre ·ds of worshipers gathered with thti More Light congregation .to hear her sermon, "Celebrating - Com0 ing Out/Coming In/Coming Home." The F.ev. Spa& was recently denied by the denomination 's highest court from serving as co-pastor of the Downtown . United Presbyterian Church in Rochester, New York. Westminster 's pastor, the Rev. • Jeanne MacKenzie, and Elder Charlie Hunnicutt welcomed visitors to the service. Members Bob Yeargan, Ron Willett, Jeff Mintzer and Charlie Bishop-sang Rhea's arrangement of the "One Hundredth Psalm," electri- Religious leaders s·upported March REPRESENTATIVEOS F THE nation's religious community were supportive of the March on Washington -for Lesbian, Gay and Bi Equal Rights and Liberation held in Washington on April 25. _ A spokesperson for the Evangelical Lutheran Chutch in America said that. the ELCA had committed itself to in its support for civil rights and in its solidarity with those who have. too long endured the burden of fear, ignorance, hatred and . violence_. . We strongly supporf the Mar_cI1.. . in the hope that the day will soon come when all.Americans will enjoy equal0 ly the rights of their citizenship." · "particpate in God's mission by advo~ Rabbi Lynne F. Landsberg of the eating dignity and justice" for all peo- Union of American Hebrew Cpt;1greple. Kay Dowhower said the ELCA gations .discussed the need for- relsupported the Civil Rights '.Amend- igious people everywhere to , fight ment Act for Gay and Lesbian Civil discrimination against Lesbians !Ind Rights. "We urge swift passage of Gays, particularly in the mirfrary, this legislation. We look .upon the _ saying, "We recognize that religious March on Washington as one way:in antag9pism_ towards homosexuals has which }hose supportive of the' civil cqnttibuted to the acceptance of antirights for all persons, regar-dless of gay bias, but ju~.t as such acts of hate sexual orientation, can join together to . have no place in. communities of faith, support one another in that effort." -- neither may we tolerate them in the Robert F. Glover of the Christian centr?l institutions of our national Church (Disciples of Christ) agreed,,, ✓- life .. : Yet our country, founded upon saying 'The church stands firm today -· · the ideals of equality and democracy, obstinately adheres to the tactics of a totalitarian regime ... We are here today to say, _loudly and clearly, that the real traditional values of American life - if not always of Amer-· ican history - are those of freedom, liberty and equality. Robert A. Alpern, Director of the Washington Office of the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations in North America, spoke of the long history of many religious groups in support of gay and lesbian rights, saying, "After passage of the . anti-civil rights initiative in Colorado, the Unitarian Universalist General Assembly Planning Committee withdrew its reservation for the $3 million 1997 General Assembly in Colorado. So it is in this spirit... that we have for months urged Unitarian Universalists from across the ·continent to come to Washington and joi11-this historic manifestation to reverse the cruel fying the crowd with · their harmony and use of female pronouns for God. The Rev. Bob Davidson, pastor of West Park Church, New York, read a portion of the Second Helvetic Confession. Elder Robin Alexander read Exodus 14 and 15. Elder Mark Palermo, Co-Moderator of the More Light Churches Network, read Romans 8. The Rev. Coni Staff of the UFMCC, SEE PLGC, Page 7 discrimination practiced agafr1st 25 million or more of our relatives, friends and others we do not know. Billy Hileman, National .Co-Chair of the March, expressed his gratitude to the religious community fof,!their support in an ,emotional statement, saying "While more than 100 organizatfons have already endorsed the March, this support from the religious community is perhaps the !llOSt heartening to ·us. Our .community has a dual relationship with religion - at the same time some religious groups have been sowing the seeds of hatred that result in harassment and even death for some of us, many of us have also turned to religious organizations to sustain our spiritual lives. So it is with great emotion that we welcome all people of faith to our fight for full civil rights. · VOLUNTEER often lose sight of the role I play in · this drama. . · "Y 011 know, I was sitting .;n the kitchen 0 Ows THE CA .L earlyonSaturdaywaitingonaride,and F LL · . · L suddenly it hit me. This is what my life has been reduced to: sitting here waiting ·on someone else to take me to the OF His HEART S/1riner's Cirt11s." . _ Th,s is a function of poverty; grown men who have been robbed of BY J. RUSSELL KIEFFER control. To whom did Jesus speak when he said, "Blessed are you who are poor?" The Hebrew word for poor was ani, which, among other things, referred to those who are without clout, those who are helpless and easily exploited; men, women, children, lovers, Christians, and .grandparents who are dying from a pandemic called AIDS. Blessed are they. "A patlz with lzeart is one that we feel called to take. Tlze sense of being called can come fronz tile quiet, inner voice of our own yearnings, or from a loud, insistent one that challengesu s from the newscast of a pulpit, from the curses of the downtrodden, or tlze waiting of a child." - Passion For Life lam not certain if it was a sincere desire to serve, or -the fear of having to find a "real" job that led me on a path with heart . Nonetheless, the decision to work as a fulltime volunteer is part of my deliberate journey, and its realness has been a progenitor of fear. As a college sh.1dent in a conservative southeastern town in New Mexico, I decided that the year after my graduation would be spent in service to those in need . After many months of research, I applied to the Jesuit Volunteer Corps. and was accepted to the program. - · The JVC is a nationwide organization likened to a domestic Peace Corps. The volunteer Works in an agency that would not otherwise be able to afford a full-time staff person. He or she lives in a four to seven member community with fellow volunteers, and must be committed to work for social change. Additionally, the volunteer lives on an $85 monthly shpend and is asked to explore spiritual issues. Through a process of elimination, impetuous decision making, and a strong sense of calling, I wound up in Buffalo, New York, where I would Work in a residence for those dying, or rather, living with AIDS: "When something goes wrong in life, you can always go on a diet, or get your hair done or buy yourself some new clotlze.s.. anything to makey ourselfl ook better. Only I can't d0 that. I can eat 'ti II tlie cows come' home and· never gain a pound. So I decided to put everything into my job, until I lost it. Bu,t time heals all wounds you_ know. Only it doesn'tb ecausel don't havea ny time. .." Walk into Benedict House and just listen. The voice of the past speaks clearly in the mellow croak of nineteenth- century wooden floors. Enlivening stained glass, intricately fashioned woodwork, and a towering brick turret join in the genteel serenade to a Victorian yesteryear. Where are your tired? Where are rm Second Stone-May/Jm1e1, 993 l. _ . _, your poor? Walk into Benedict House and open your eyes. Behold the contradiction . Love is in the air. This is where we eat well, sleep well, recreaie well and pray well. This is where we come to live with AIDS when there is no place else to go; this is where ·the justice is served; this is where we wiH probably die; Tony came to Benedict House in the early faUfrom a local hospital. Gaunt and withdrawn, he was literally dropped on the door step by his family. Here he waited for his belongings, his clothing - his familiarity. He was eventually dressed in the clothes of a man who died at our house The only reason Al ever came to Buffalo was because he slept through the stop in Rochester. One city is as good as another when you have nowhere to live. After spending several weeks in a detox unit trying to kick a chronic alcohol problem, Al came to live at Benedict House. -On Thanksgiving day, I spent the morning taking Al to the airpor!'to greet his mother. We were well on The author, right, counsels . a client at Benedict House in Buffalo, New York before Tony even came here to live. He remained a quiet resident and didn't require much more than . chocolate candy and the company of his favorite stuffed animal. Tony never saw his wife and children again., He died in late February and was cremated without a service or funeral. The only acknowledgement of Tony's life or death was is a small ·memorial service in our house chapel. Here are the poor. One function of my job includes coordinating resident activities. I our way when I discovered that not only did Al not know what time his mother was arriving, he had also failed to find out ori what airline she would be flying and in which terminal the plane would be landing. While waiting on Al to find his mother, vactioners got in and out of our van, mistaking me for the guy from the Holiday Inn. Al had only lived here for two weeks when we discovered more than 50 empty king-sized liquor bottles in his bedroom. How can you encourage a man to sober up when he probably won't see next Thanksgiving? Here are the !ired. On Valentine's day the Girl Scouts brought cookies and candy over to the house. John politely welcomed the 10 year-old philanthropists by saying, "Hi, my name is John. I have AIDS. Thank you for the goodies ... we'll eat all of you up ... I have demenita you know!" "T11sea ddestt hing aboutl iving in this place is the size of this bed, because I .know there's no way two people could everf it in it! Now don't get me wrong. .. it's just that when you have AIDS people don't really want to touch you anymore. And I miss tlzal." As director of volunteer" services it is my responsibility to integrate tl~e neighboring community into our community; to, in the words of Victor Frankl, remind others that "man finds meaning by creating a work or doing a deed, by experiencing something or encountering someone, or through the attitude we _take toward unavoidable suffering;" to encourage others to take part in what Tolstoy deems "the transfiguration of ·suf- . fering ." All is not loss, though, and here we are among the living. My greatest lesson from those who -are dying is learning how to live. Benedict House is a place of joy, where all are accepted. Here is where members of the gay community come to share in the .comraderie . _the-y - create; to remember their pasts, celebrate the present, and discover the future. Greg was living in Florida when his parents brought him, kicking and screaming, to Buffalo. He had been arrested there after walking outside one night in his underwear. He was institutionalized, heavily drugged, and given electric shock treatment. No one realized that he had PML, a neurological disorder associated with AIDS which generates lesions on the brain and causes rapid dementia. Greg was a 4.0 graduate from a local university and had two degrees. The world could be his. Instead, he wears Christmas ornaments on his ears and thinks he's going to have a baby. I believe that _ when Jesus would touch the lives of broken people, he used his own mortality for a basis of relation. He would ·touch others with his humanity, and in the context of humanness, something devine occurred. We have all been left that legacy. We are all called to create divinity out of our brokenness and in our humanity. The faith response is not sp much a yes or no to a fact, but a yes or no to a process of living within a mystery that is always more knowable. To live with this understanding is to constantly discover new sources of strength, new sources of hope, new ways and reasons to be, even in the midst of. laughter or tragedy. In the Gospel of the woman at the well, we encounter two people from completely different worlds. They cross each other's paths in their journeys and make a substantial difference in each other's lives. Jesus, a tired , thirsty traveler, stops for water, rest, and so~tude at Jacob's Well before resummg his journey and mission of teaching about the life of the Spirit and the worlds beyond and within. While Jesus rests a Samaritan, a woman, arrives. She ~eems to be bent solely on fulfilling her concrete daily tasks in her realistic world-at-hand. Jesus breaks all cultural rules of the times and talks to this Samaritan woman and asks her; somewhat bluntly, for a drink of water. · She, being a Samaritan and taught to iiespise Jews, could easily have refused his ·request, but instead, she complies, perhaps irritably, but generously. He _sees her openness to generosity as a_n opportunity to touch her soul. Their conversation is one of banter, challenges, and answers. Both vacillate between arrogance and gentleness. He is touched by her steadfast stances, her spunk and spontaneity, and her undaunted longing for liberation and a more meaningful life. She is touched not only by Jesus knowing her personal past, but _ by his nonjudgme11tal statements and penchant for seeing deeper meanings. He learns that he must see each person as unique and he must respect and welcome challenges as valid, in order for his message to be fully heard and in·_ order to fully relate. She learns to see deeper meanings and becomes a vehicle for furthering not only her own person~! ~nd spiritual growth, but also Jes~s ~mstry in Samaria. They were s1gmficant to one another and to us. He teaches us to love the marginalized, to take risks, to be open to differences, and to look for deeper meanings even in every day substances such as water. She teaches us to question authority, even messiahs, to hold firmly to our own perspective and dignity, but to be open to new perspectives and deeper meanings beyond the obvious and ·concrete. They eacll gave freely and generously and received in return. · After their encounter, they each continued on their own journeys, significantly changed.· What exactly is our journey in our modern-day lives? Most trips, for me, involve some level of risk and varying degrees of ambivalence, quest!oning, excitement, and preparahon. Why am I going? Do I have anything to offer? Will I meet new people or see new sights? Should I stay home -where it is familiar and easy? Am I open to loving, giving, and supporting? The Rath· of the Journey: .Risk, Joy, Giff, and Growth BY CHRISTINE COUGHLAN Webster's Dictionary defines "journey" as travel from one ·place to another or something that suggests . travel, like a journey through life. .Sometimes a journey can have a conscious, well planned purpose. These travelers can say "I know what I want; I know how to get it, so I'm on ·my way." Other travelers can have a purpose but be unsure about how to fulfill it. They might say, "I think I can, I think I can," or like a good Catholic, possibly, "I know I should, I know I should." The response might hopefully ·become "I know I can, I'm blessed ." And there's another group · of travelers who just panic, "I don't care, I'm out -of here, maybe I'll be back." But no matter what type of journeyer we may be, spontaneous, perhaps unconsciously connected events do happen. Both plarmed and spontaneous events add dimension, meaning, and depth to our hves, These events, moments, periods of time help us to more clearly define or further become who we are. This can occur as blissful. or tumultuous, alone or with others, in conflict or harmony, and apart from or within challenging communities. · Whether by ourselvesor with others, continuing life's journeys of growth involves taking chances on ourselves, on others, and .on God. It involves making ourselves . vulnerable, setting limits, accepting differences, forgiving ourselves and oth~rs, enjoying similarities, challengmg stagnation, having fun, being open to new life, and letting _ourselves love ourselves and others. The same questions we ask ourselves before business trips and vacations can be asked again, in a deeper context, about life journeys. "Am I prepared or preparing?_ Am I trying? What will I win or lose by going or not going, by choosing cir not choosing? Am I fully being me? Am I encouraging others to be fully themselves? Am I open to risks? Am I enjoying myself? Am I accepting? Am I willing to face fear and pain in order to grow? How do I resolve conflict and ambivalence? Do I pray or do I ask myself why not? How else am I naturally spiritual? Do I appreciate my gifts? Am I willing to share them and let them grow to full potential? Am I at least trying to relate to others with tolerance, if not with love? Do I have goals? Do I truly value my .friends and my families? Am I willing to . give up selfcenteredness even if : slowly, so to give freely and serv:e others, in whatever way service 1s most natural? Am I forgiving? Do I sometimes give in? Am I trying to -let go of some controls and let life be, let life in? How well do I care about the Earth and its peoples? · Can I really look at me in a courageous, deeply probing way? Can I · create my own _safety and security by depending on myself yet bemg able to reacll out? Do I Tove me? Do I see God in my life, in my relationships, in me?" Asking these questions and finding or waiting for the answers can be very painful, but they are part ~f growth filled journeying. An_d this journeying can, hopefully, bring us closer to each other and foster deeper friendships . It can present to us relationships that will allow us to see God more tangibly in our lives and encourage us to participate more fully in creative, real, life-affirming community. _ We are Spirit-filled individuals into one · community - our community. We have journeyed as a community, withstanding countless trials and growing pains, controversial internal conflict and painful external ass,iults, potentially humiliating-and ironically growth producing insults. We have been jeered, misunderstood, imposed upon, emotionally and physically · bashed and some of . this we have done most brutally to ourselves. -At the same time, however, we have been blessed and led by prophets and disciples, realistic and reactionary, some of whom are now deceased. We have endured the pain, the Jesus-like suffering, and the toll of AIDS, making so many of us so much more appreciative of the gifts of life, of the courage of our suffering brothers and sisters, and of the deep beauty of care-giving. We have been plagued by Ratzingers and lauded by Hunthausens. We have been inspired by Ruethers, Gram1cks, McNeills, Nugents, and Gormans. We have been, and are, leaders and mentors for one another. We ·are community. We are church.· But what is this church? What is our continued purpose? What is our deeper meaning? What are our goals for the future as we continue on our journey? How well do we truly serve one another and celebrate our gifts? How well do we look at ourselves, learn from our mistakes, and act with humility and charity? What can we do to create and perpetuate Spirit-filled and inclusive community, without which we are not a community? How can we attempt to continue to recreate the church of the early Christians, one which was much less impeded by structure and rules? How do we continue to have church be a rri.eans for all its people to better know God within and beyond, to learn to pray and to acknowledge the spiritual dimensions that alre~dy exist in ourselves rather than havmg the institution of the church be the end in itself? I believe, so I speak out. I would like to offer some -suggestions, some . of which are already living well, and others which need to be strongly considered. I believe first, that we .are a blessed and chosen people, that we are God to one another, and therefore the means to becoming closer to God. I believe that I can and must affirm not only my gifts, pain, and dignity but that of others as we are called to do and be for each other. I believe in a genderless Creator who is the highest epitome of -love, forgiveness, and forgiving. I believe in a Holy Spirit - who sanctifies and enlightens, and in Jesus, the redeeming friend who taug~t us lovmg and healing ways. I believe that. we are all .potential healers and that we !oo are · Jesus' . loving and healing disciples . . I b.elieve in lay-led liturs _ gies, shared homilies, the or~!nahon of women literally and experienhally, in -inclusive language and genderless images .of God. I believe many of us, μnbeknownst to even ourSelv~s, ~re ·apostles, healers, presiders_, m1msters, homilists, counselors, leaders, lovers, directors, financial wizards, and organizers. I believe _we are a wellsp r ing _ of untapped gifts rea~y to be -SEE JOURNEY, Page_ 20 Second Stone-May/Jun~, 1993 (llJ Videos . ~ ...................................... •· .......... ·-·. ~ .................. . Walk Me to the Water: Three People in Their Time of Dying By Rev. Richard B. Gilbert Contributing Writer Presented by John Seakwood, in association with St. Peter's Hospice, Albany, New York It is very clear why the flier for this video lists it as an award winning video, including the "President's Award for .Excellence'; from the National Hospice Organization. It is gripping, yet ten- ■ J,ii;;t; ~t·~~ :,. ~~f ~ • •'\ : "-L. 'We Cfl~1t;.~J;~'.' r pool, hot tub, skiing and more . · Innkeepers Judith Ha11 and Grace Newman invite you to write or Cali for a brochure. P. 0. Box 118 SL ·Bethlehem, NH 03574 (603) 869-3978 - der, letting shine the harsh realities of death as experienced by people, yet surrounded by the opportunites for gentle care, love and peace. · The video is described as a "special half hour film that intimately portrays the experiences of three terminally ill cancer patients being cared for at home." No talk about denial, anger or fear .. No, not words ... experiences. "I drank a lot." "I kepi smoking." Shared . frustrations with various visitors who ask stupid questions. "How are you? ... How the hell do you think I'm doing? I have cancer ... " Or the volunteer who sits in front of the television and insists ori talking "when I want to watch the World Series." It is a penetrating look at people struggling to die with dignity, to claim life even in the midst of dying, to maximize the moments of life, however few there may be left, yet often having to fight not only the disease, but the caregivers who steal away even more of those pr .ecious moments of time and life. We meet Joe, strugg ling to survive his moments of time. Then there is Ann, having to deal with many ■ Let.a new light shine for someone you· love. Second Stone is a gift of love, comfort, inspiration and resolution for friends and family who may be in doubt, despair, isolation or suffering illness. Give the special people in your life the gift of Second Stone. · We'll take it from there. FROM, Yes ... Mj Name Please send a gift """"' subscription and card o" '""· 7Jp in my name to the Name person(s)-listed: Mdress [ )Oneglft,$15 CJty [ ) Two gifts, $29 St,te l'Jp [ J Three gifts, $42 Sign Gift cant Add $10 for each Name foreign subscriber. Mdress U.S. currency. City PAYMENI' ENQ.OSED: swe 7Jp Sign Glk cant Use additional sheet for more gifts. B~x 8340, New Orleans, LA 70182 ■ ■ . [Ji] Second Stone-May/June, 1993 / health care needs and systems. Maintaining dignity in the midst of medicine's endless intrusions. She shares her stories well. With Marion, we meet patient and family, struggling together with the experiences of life and death . Each perso.n offers an important line or .thought for us: Says Joe, "How precious life was, each and every moment of it. We take it for . granted ... " Ann adds, " ... (and) that's what you need, the voices and faces of your family." Finally, from a member of Marion's family, '.There was a lot of hard times and it wasn't easy, but a lot of good came out of that too ... I wasn't sure if I had it in me to take care of her and I found out I did and a lot more." "H ? ow are you .. ;. How the hell do you think I'm doing? I have " cancer ... The content is excellent, the didactic help, and the message of the desire for hope in the midst of dying comes through clearly. It is offered .as a series of black and white still photographs, moving along through its theme with helpful narrative, mostly in the first person. It isn't easy, and it reminds us that _ death often is very difficult, very painful, and a battle that seems more frustrated by family and systems than the disease. In viewing this video will come a new awareness of the patient, of the family; cf the helpful ways of caregiving, and of the wonderful gifts of life (and an appreciation for life), hope and eternity that patients will give us if we allow them. This video is strongly recommended for health care professionals working with the terminaIJ.y ill, hospice volunteers, home health agencies, visiting nurses, clergy, social workers, and caregivers. It also has a special message and insight for the friends and families who could, with some redirection and education, become more effective in their presence. For information on this video write to Box 258, Bird Rd., New Lebanon, NY 12125. ( The Rev. Richard Gilbert is Director of Pastoral Services, Porter Memorial Hospital, Valparaiso, Indiana. On Video, briefly ... Three videos from Willowgreen Productions: Nothing is Permanent Except Change: Learning to Manage Transition in Your Life This video, offered in small segments wit.h time for reflection, accepts the reality of change, but moves us to explore and manage the transitions in our lives. An excellent experience of endings and beginnings. . -Listen to Your Sadness Hopelessness strikes all of us al various limes, and it touches every corner of our lives. This video en• ables you to face your pain, not escape it. In the "facing" we take the first slep toward finding hope again. How Do I Go On? This video hils hard on feelings as the experience and the pathway, gently moving us foiward to peace. It fs for "people whose futures seem limited by circumstance, accident or illness." ·All three videos available from Wil· /owgreen Productions, P.O. Box 25180, Fort Wayne, IN 46825. (219)424-7916. -Rev. Richard 8. Gilbert Men and women vets sought for documentary Authur Dong, an independent film producer, is currently in production for the documentary Coming Out Under Fire for PBS, based on the book by Allan Berube. The film's research staff is actively looking for lesbian, gay and bisexual World War II veterans. They want to talk to women who served in any branch, including the Nurse Corps. Especially sought are those who served in the 100th/442nd Regiment, the 2nd Calvary Division, the 92 and 93rd Infantry Division, men of color and women of color. Contact Deep Focus Productions, 4506 Palm• ero Dr., Los Angeles, -CA 90065 (213) 254-m3, FAX (213)254-7974. InP rint ............................................... ~ .. • ..... ~ .... • ............ . Someone You.Know· By Kevin Gepford ContributinWg riter Maria Pallotta-Chiarolli, author. Wakefield Press, Kent Town, South Australia. 188 pages, paperback, $14.95. Th~ stories we love - the best of stories - are about people's lives, the ups and downs, the conflicts and the enduring friendships. Such a story comes from Australia in the new book Someone You Know. Do you know this man, or someone like him? He's a gay Seventh-day Adventist who suddenly faces his own mortality when he learns he is HIV positive. And . his friend - the book's author, Maria Pallotta-Chiarolli - becomes his closest companion as he develops AIDS. . Storyteller Pallotta-Chiarolli gives a first-person account of Jon, an outgoing and well-loved teacher in her Adelaide school. Her account is well In Print,b riefly.. . WhenH ateG roups Cometo T own Thel atestp ublicatiofnro mt ~eC enter. for DemocratRice newaclo versv irtuallye verya specot f thel egal,s trategic and tacticali ssuest hat surroundo rganizing to counter hate groups. WhenH ateG roupsC omet o TownA: Handbooko f EffectiveC ommunity Responsesis beingm arketeda s a trainingto ol as well as an individual resource. -Fori nformatiocno ntacLt orettaR oss, (404)221-(XJ25. Homoaffectionalism: MaleB ondinfgro m Gilgamestoht heP resent PaulD . Hardmanh,i storiana ndl egal scholar, has worked for nearly ten years on this book about the rela· tionshipb etweemn eno f notet houghoutt heh istoryo f thew orld.T hereis a speciasl ectiono n the military,f rom Roman emperors to 1992, giving namesa ndd atesa ndr eferences. -FromG LBPul:iishePrs.,O .B ox7 8212, SanF ranciscCo,A 9 4107 PaganB abies Thisn ovelb y GregJ ohnsonis about two. friends,d escribeda s "Catholic misfits"g rowingu p togetherJ. anice Rungrena nd CliffordB annonm eet as third-gradeirns Catholics chooli n Texasd uringt he early1 960s. From there their relationshipsp anst hree decadesa nd encompassevsa rious attractionasn dc onflictsin, cludingfa l· lingi n lovew itht hes amem an. -FrollJD utton told with . good insights into Jon's mind. The book does suffer from confusing chronology and sometimes inauthenic dialogue; however - faults that detract from the book's overall worth but do not destroy it. Maria Pallotta-Chiarolli's friendship with Jon grows as she learns more about his life and his lover, Kevin. She and Jon take trips together, and share notes about being members of minority groups: she, _of Italian descent, and he, a homosexual. The author gives great care to describe Jon's personal conflicts - of being Seventh-day Adventist and gay, of coming from a rigidly conservative home, and of falling away from the church that could not love him. Pallotta-Chiarolli shares her own insights into Jon's life as she struggles to understand his feeling of alienation. · Finally, AIDS enters the stage. Maria is the one friend Jon chooses to accompany him to find out the results of the HIV test. -She has a hard time comforting him as he begins to morbidly dwell on the future. Maria keeps in touch with Jon as he moves away, breaks up with Kevin, dabbles with a new job and faces declining health. She and some of his fellow teachers from Adelaide visit him at last on his deathbed, where they meet his parents who have arrived to sing hymns and pray by his bedside. Although the parents - unused to sharing their'emotions - never accept Jon's homosexuality, they come to realize that he was _loved and respected by his friends and colleagues. Much of the book is dedicated to the · final moments of Jon's life as he fades in and out of consciousness and friends and family drop by. In the end, only Maria, Kevin and · a third close friend are present to witness his passing. The book's main failing is in how it presents the sequence of events. It gets off to a confusing start with chapters alternating from past to present like a time warp gone awry. The author gives few clues to help the reader uncferstand this tortuous chronology. And it takes several chapters before Pallotta-Chiarolli reveals the point of the whole book - that her dear friend is dying ,from a terrible disease. Someone You Know is filled with dialogue, some of which seems unnatural and a little stilted, as if overedited. All the characters come out sounding the same; their personalities seem a bit flat - a problem that BuildingB ridges,G ay and Lesbian Reality and the Catholic Church By Texas FitzGerald ContributingW riter Authors Robert Nugent and Jeannine Gramick have. been involved in educational and pastoral ministry involving homosexuality and the Catholic Church for two decades. They have counseled · gay /lesbian Catholic . youth, gay /lesbian Catholics who are married, lesbian nuns in mid-life crisis, gay priests with AIDS, and others. They, have conducted seminars on homophobia in three quartei;s of the diocese in the United States. Building Bridges, Gay and Lesbian Reality and the Catliolic Chu-rch is a readable, comprehensive book on the issue of lesbian and gay people in the Catholic Church. Nugent and Gramick document the liberalness of the American branch of the Catholic ·Church while acknow- · !edging the orthodox stance of the Vatican. Various Catholic groups have made positive statements on . lesbian and gay civil rights. Polls · indicate a majority of American Catholics support equal civil rights for Lesbians and Gays, ,and support legalization of homosexual acts. between consenting adults in private. Approximately one third believe homosexual behavior is not necessarily sinful and that homosexuality is a valid alternative lifestyle. Various · gay and/ or lesbian Catholic groups have been formed. Seemingly in reaction to this liberalness, the Vatican has issued letters characterizing homosexual orientation as an objective di_sorder, has • appointed more conservative bishops, . and has caused the eviction of Dignity chapters . In July, 1992, according to the Associated Press, the Vatican advocated exclusion of homo' sexuals from adoption, teaching, and military positions. Building Bridges, Gay and Lesbian Reality and the Catholic Church attempts to span this chasm. The chapters include updated articles published in journals, plus additional material. The book has four major sections. "Education and Social Concerns" justifies Catholic support for equal civil rights for Lesbians and Gays. The arguments are thoroughly reasoned and appeal to theology, church plagues reconstructed conven,ati_ons, as these seem to be. · · However, PallottaaChiarolli's crisp use of language and descriptions of places and people give the book a rich feeling of reality. Through her lens you see what is important to her and her relationship with Jon. You discern the paradoxes of religion and the quandry of parents trapped between love of their son and loathing of his lifestyle. Someone You Know is an excellent first book, and a delightful story comfng from Australia. Concerned Christians in North America will be able to relate to its message, plus get a glimpse of how AIDS is affecting the lives of people like us in Australia. Someone You Know, published in Australia, is not likely to be found in your . local bookstore. Contact the Inland Book Co., 1-800-243-0138P, .O. Box 120261, East Haven, CT 06512, to find out if a bookstore near you has this title. Kevin Gepfordi s a graduates tudent in the school of journalism at Columbia University in New York. He is the former editor of the SDA Kinship Conne~ tion, a journal-for gay and lesbian Seventh;dayA dventists. statements ·prior to July, 1992, science, and philosophy. "Counseling and Pastoral Issues" describes problems of family acceptance of Lesbians and Gays, lesbian women in the church, and married Gays and Lesbians. Although there are some recommendations in this section, much is vague perhaps . due to the dilemmas posed. "Religious and Clerical Life" tackles homophobia in sexually segregated orders, HIV testing and candidates, . mid-life crisis of nuns who recognize they are lesbian, and discussions on the meaning of celibacy. "Evolving Theological Perspectives" documents various Catholic state.ments on homosexuality and discusses clearly labeled alternative theology, including examples of lesbian and gay theology. · Building Bridges attempts . to offer personal support for Lesbians and Gays who remain in the Catholic Church, while attempting to inform· the wider church on this topic, Texas FitzGerald is an elder in tlte CumberlandP resbyteriand enomination. Second Stone-May/June, 1993 ~ Calendar . . . . . . . ·• ....... ~ .................... ...... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Jo/lawing announcements have bew submitted by sponsoring or affiliated groups. Healing From Where We Are MAY 3-7, This retreat, offered by Kairos, at the Marianist Center in Cupertino, Calif., is a sharing . ' experience for HlV + priests and male religious. For information contact John McGrann, 114 Douglass St., San foirlciso, CA 94114, (415)861-0877 or David Eidem, ·1534 Arch St., Berkeley, CA 94708, (510)841-2229. More Light Churches Network Meets MAY 7•9, the 9th Annual National Conference of the More Light Churches Network meets at the Seventh Avenue Presbyterian Church in San Francisco. "Reclaiming Justice, Rekindling Love, Reforming the Church" is the theme. Planned workshop topics include how to become a More Light church, evangelism, polity issues, AIDS ministries · and Bible defense. For information contact Richard Sprott, 3900 Harrison St., #301, Oakfand, CA 94611. , Dialogue on the · Bible and . Homosexuality MAY 23, The Piedmont Religious Network for Gay and Lesbian Equality sponsors a group discussion at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Presenters include Rev. Jimmy Creech and John Blevins . For information call (919)766-9501 or (919)748-3488. Earl M. Willits Conference MAY 22, Author Chris Glaser is the presenter for this one day conference themed "Making 1t Work: Reconciling the Church with Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual Christians" to be held at Plymouth Congregational Church, 4126 Ingersoll, Des Moines, IA 50312. Call (515)255-3149 for information . . SpiritFest '93 MAY 28-31, Th e Catholic Formation Center , Irving, Texas is the se tting for this Memorial Day weekend · gathering , Fee of $120 includes room and meals . For information contact Rev. Terry Enloe, (504)944-9836. East Coast ACTS Weekend JUNE 4-6, the gathering, themed "Building Bridges" will explore building connections between believers. The weekend will be held at a campground at Sandy Lake, Penn. The meeting will center on biblical teaching , worship and fellowship. For information cc;mtact Pastor Sam Kader, (513)228-8000. Evangelicals Concerned Eastern connECtion JUNE 4-6, The 14th annual eastern summer retreat of Evangelicals Concerned, Inc. will be held at Kirkridge, a mountain retreat center in eastern Pennsylvania. Keynoters will be Peggy Campolo, Nicholas Wolterstorff and Ralph Blair. For information write to Evangelicals Concerned, Inc., Ste. G-1, 311 East 72nd St., New York, NY 10021. Accommodatlorw, AIDSMIV resourcu, bara1 bookstores, vartousbuslnasses, Mltth care, llgal urvlcN, organizations, publlcatlona, r9l91c>Us groups, swttchboarda, therapists, tnivel agents, • much mora, 1or gay women and men. · All 11lces below INCLUDE FIRST·CLASS POSTAGE r, USA, C&na<l8 & Meleo , In sealed, dsaeet envelopes. PlaiHng lists B'O srlcdy ccnftdenlal. Order• ~om ooslda USA (lricludlng C8nada & Meleo): pal'fflantmuslbe In US Funds payable on a .US bank, ar by Pco!Offlcear American Ex11ess money crdB' , (WesuggestyouYy alocal booksr,,e firs~ IDavcld possible Custans 11o1>1amsij · · · . US/CANADA. C&nada8'1d USA tor women & men. City bydty lnlormallonlor all us Slates, C&nadian PIIHlnees, and the us Vi gin-. plus relOnWlde r8SCU'ces lricludi'll haadqu8'1efs or national arga,lza!lons 8'ld caucuses: ptblicalcns: mail ardor companies, elC. $12.00; outside N. America $17 (airman) NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY. NY & NJ; separata Women's Socllon; Manhallan bar "'tes by Je,ry Fitzpafiek , $5.00; outlldo N. America~ (alnnalQ . SOUTHERN/Southam Midwest. 64 pages. AL.AZ, AR, FL, GA, KS, I((, LA, MS, M:l , NM, NC, OK, PR, SC, TN, 'IX, us Virgin Islands, VA. $5.00; outside N. Amlllca $8 (alrmal) NORTHEAST. CT, DE, DC, t,IE, MA, NH, OH·, PA, RI, VT, WV. $5.00; ouoldo N. America $8 (airmail) RENAISSANCE HOUSE, SOX 533-SS VILLAGE STATION, NEW YORK, NY 10014--0292 (212)674-0120 lliiJ Second Stone-May/June, 1993 Pastoral Care and AIDS JUNE 4-6, Retreat, JUNE 6-10, Institute. An interfaith retreat and institute for pastoral caregivers for persons living with AIDS, sponsored by the Center for Ministries, Merrimack College. Major presenters include Rev. Douglas Graydon, Sr. Teres .ita Weind , Rabbi J.B. Sacks, Rev. Ann Showalter and Dr. Terry Tafoya . For information contact the college at 31.5 Turnpike St., North Andover, MA 01845, (508)837-5347. 17th Annual Gay & Lesbian Christian Retreat JUNE 10-13, This event for Lesbians, gay men and bisexuals of all colors, their family and friends, continues to explore issues of sexuality in the context of Christian faith and practice . Facilitators include Mary E. Hunt, JolmMcNeill; Virginia Ramey Mollenkott and William Smith. Kirkridge, a mountain . retreat center in Eastern Pennsylvania is the .setting. For information contact Kirkridge, Bangor, PA 18013-9359, (215)588-1793. BMG AnnuaJ Retreat JUNE 24-27, The Brothers of the Mercy of God invite all to join them at their host Monastery by the .Sea. The conference, themed "Religious Life," promises a time of prayer and sharing. For information writ e to . Bros. of the Mercy of God, 341 E. Center St., Manchester, CT 06040 or call 1-800-253-5506. (At the beep press 11903 and leave message.) Seventh Annual Golden Threads JUNE 25-27, The Provincetown Inn in Provincetown, Mass. will be the loca- . lion for this gathering of a ·worldwide social network of lesbian women over 50, and women who are interested in older wom en. Julie Woods is the featured entertainer. Attendance is limited to 250. For information contact Christine Burton, Golden Threads, P.O . Box 60475, Northampton , MA 01060-0475 America Baptists Concerned National Retreat JUNE 26-29, The Isis Oa sis in the Russian River area of Northern C~liforina will be the site of the annual retr ea t of American Baptists Concerned . Cost, including meals and lodging, is $175. The retreat will include a trip to San Francisco for the annual Gay /Lesbian Pride parade. For information contact American Baptists Concerned, 872 Erie St., Oakland, CA 94610. Gay and Lesbian Parents Meet JULY 2-4, Hundreds of lesbian moms, gay dads and their children will meet in Orlando, Florida for the 14th annual confer ence of the Gay and ' Lesbian Parents Coalition. "Share the Love ... Share the Magi~!" is .the theme . The Clarion Hotel is the setting , providing opportunity lo visit the Disney attractions. For in:formation contact GLPCI '93, Box 561504, Orlando, FL 32856-1504, ·(407)420-2191. connECtion '93 JULY 2-5, Evangelicals Concerned hosts its annual gathering. Keynote speakers include Rev. M. Mahan Siler, Jr., Dr . Ralph Blair, and Patricia V. Long. The conference will be held in the San Francisco Bay Area. For information write to ECWR, P.O. Box . 4750, Denver , CO 80204. National ) .-. Convocation of Reconciling Congregations JULY 8-11, The Reconciling Congregations Program . hosts its 3rd National Convocation . "Borne of the Breath of God: Remembering, Ren ewing, Reforming , Returning" is the them. e. George Washington University in Washington, D.C. is th f location. Twenty workshops will be offered . Leaders are Dr . Sally Brown Geis, Iliff School ofTheology and Dr. Tex Sample, St. Paul School of Theology. . For information write . to tl1e RCP, 3801 N. Keeler Ave., Chicago, IL 60641, (312)736-5526. UCCLJGC National Gathering 13 JULY 12-15, Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, is the setting for the 13th annual meeting of the United Church Coalition for Lesbian/ Gay Concerns. "Unity & Diversity: Gifts to Celebrate, Obstacles to Overcome" is the theme . For information contact UCCL/GC, 18 N. College St., Athens, OH 45701, . (614)593-7301. SEE CALENDAR, Next Page T Noteworthy T ..................................................................... .... Rev. Jane Spahr to serve as evangelist for Rochester church LiHA YING BEEN DENIED their selection of Rev. Jane Spahr as co-pastor of their church, the congregation of Downtown Unite!1 Presbyterian · Church, Rochester, New York, has hired her as an evangelist. The High Court of the Presbyterian Church (USA) had ruled earlier against the church's call of Spahr as co-pastor because she is a lesbian. As an evangelist, Spahr will travel throughout the denomination to speak on behalf of gay and lesbian Presby- CALENDAR, From Page 16 "Partners for the Glory of God" · JULY 15-20, The Gay and Lesbian Affirming Disciples Alliance and the United Church Coalition for Lesbian/ Gay Concerns will sponsor joint activities during the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ biennial General Assembly (Disciples) and General Synod (UCC) at the Cervantes Convention Center in St. Louis. Michael and Katherine Kinnamon are scheduled to speak at a Saturday evening banquet. For infomation, contact Randy Palmer at (319)332-0245. 4th Annual Northampton Lesbian Festival JULY 23-25, the popular festival expands to 3 days this year . The location is the Swift River Inn in Cummington, Mass. For information contact W,OW Productions, 160 Main St., Northampton, MA 01060, (413)586-8251. UFMCC's 16th General Conference JULY 18-25, "For All The Nation s" is the theme of th.is conference celebrating the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Church's .25 years of ministry. The conference returns to The Pointe at Tapatio Cliffs in Phoenix, Arizona, site of the immediate past UFMCC General Conference. For registration information write to the UFMCC, 5300 Santa Monica Blvd., Ste. 304, Los Angeles, CA 90029. Dignity/USA Convention JULY 28-AUGUST 1, The national terians and the congregations who value their leadership . The goal of her work will be the overturn of the denomination's "definitive guidance." This policy, adopted by General Assemblies 1978 and 1979 forbids chur .ches and presbyteries from ordaining "self-affirming, practicing homosexual persons. " Contributions to support Spahr's ministry, payable to DUPC, may be sent to ·•That All May Freely Serve," Downtown United Presbyterian Church, 121 ·N. Fitzhugh St., Rochester, NY 14614. -More Light Update gay and lesbian Catholic organization holds its 11th biennial convention at · the Fairmont Hotel in New Orleans. "Celebrate a Living Church" is the theme of the gathering, to which attendees are encouraged to wear · Mardi Gras colors of green, gold and purple. Brian McNaught is the featured speaker. For information · contact Dignity/USA, 1500 · Massachusetts Ave., NW, Ste.11, Washington, DC 20005, 1 °800-877-8797. BMG Hospitality- House AUGUST 1M21, The Brothers of the Mercy of God sponsor a week by the ocean, summer fun, and sharing life's experience. The setting is an authentic New England fal'll}house in Matunuck, R.l. The atmosphere is - relaxed, prayerful and joyous . For information write to Bros. of the Mercy of God, 341 E. Center St., Manchester, CT 06040 or call 1-800-253-5506. (At the beep press 11903 and leave message.) Parliament of the World's Religions AUGUST 28-SEPfEMBER 5, a major interfaith gathering with many of the world 's religions represented. Exhibits, performances, lectures and presentations, interfaith dialogues, children's programs and meetings of specialized groups . The Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions says "All are welcome to g;i,ther in . · Chicago in 1993 to listen to one · another, to be challenged to find new ways of livirig together, and to seek new visions for the future." For information write to: Parliament of the World's Religions, P.O. Box 1630, Chicago, IL 60690. P-FLAG Annual Convention SEPTEMBER 3-6, The 12th Annual International Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays gathering will be BrethrervMennonite parents document concerns .,ip ARENTS OF GAY and lesbian members of the Brethren and Mennonite churches recently sent an open letter to their respective churches expressing concern about the lack of acceptance of their sons and daughters by the church. Over two dozen parents came together at a recent w eekend meeting to share the stories of their families' pilgrimages. Mennonite parents confronted the church about the disbanding of the Listening Committee and Brethren parents held in New Orleans Labor Day weekend at the Sheraton Hotel on Canal Street. "Celebrating Family - New Orleans Style" is the theme . For information contact New Orleans P-FLAG, P.O. Box 15485,New Orleans, LA 70175. Tour of Israel SEPTEMBER 22-OCTOBER 8, Royal Menorah Adventures coordinates a tour of Israel for gay and lesbian travelers, escorted by Bible s~udent. and .previous Israeli resident Daniel Mark. $2850 per person, sharing twin accommodations . Contact Royal Tours, 1742 E. Broadway; Long Beach, CA 90802, {310)983-7370. Skills Building Conference OCTOBER 31-NOVEMBER 3, The AIDS National Interfaith Network, National Association of People with AIDS and National. Minority AIDS Council sponosor their annual gathering . New Orleans, on Halloween weekend, is the setting . For information contact ANIN, 110 Maryland Ave., NE, Ste. 504, Washington, DC 20002. RE-imagining/ Churches in Solidarity with Women NOVEMBER 4-7, A global theological conference by women for women and men. Re-imagining God, creation, Jesus, church as spiritual institution, arts/ church, language/ word, ethics/work/ ministry, community, sexuality/family, church as worshipping community . Featuring many presenters including Mary E. Hunt and Virginia Ramey Mollenkott. The Minneapolis Convention Center is the setting. Contact Rev. Sally Hill, 122 W. Franklin Ave., Room 100, Minneapolis, MN 55404, ( 612)870-3600, fax (612)870-3663. expressed concern over their church's Annual Conference Program and . Arrangements Committee's denial of booth . space for the Brethren/ Mennonite Council at the Annual Conference. Parents called on both churches to become a "courageous voice for justice." Parents interested in joining the movement may write to P.O . Box 1708, Lima, OH 45802. Fellowship forming for Seattle area gay and lesbian clergy . LiPASTOR RON SHONK is coordinating efforts to provide support for networking among gay and lesbian clergy of any denomination in Northwest Washington . Shonk is chaplain and director of OpeffDoor Ministries, a Lutheran ministry of consultation and pastoral care for AIDS and · gay and lesbian concerns. For information call (206)628-0946. New GLAD chapter for Central Iowa LiTHE GAY, LESBIAN, and Affirming Disciples Alliance has a new chapter in the Des Moines area . GLAD-Central Iowa is the first Alliance chapter to be formed as the · result of the direction of a congregational committee. The Ministry in Society Committee of the First Christian Church of Des Moines initiated the chapter format.ion process. For information about the new group contact GLAD-Central Iowa, c/ o First Christian Church, 2500 University Ave., Des · Moines , IA 50311, (515)255-2181. New Open and Affirming church for UCC • . LiTHE -FIRST CONGREGATIONAL Church of Pasadena, United Church of Chri.st, has become an Open and Affirming congregation, according to the Rev. Byron Hiller Light, Senior Minister . The California church has a long history of aligning itself with groups marginali2:ed by society or religion : At the turn of the ' century, the church ministered to Asian immigrants and now, First Congregatiorial Church houses over tw.o dozen homeless people nightly. Regarding the Open and Affirming decision, Rev. Light said, "After a year of intensive biblical study, teaching, discussion .and reflection the congregation voted overwhelmingly at its winter business meeting to not only welcome homosexuals and bisexuals to First Congregational, but also to actively affirm their worth and presence as individuals, gifted by a loving God." The cllurch is located at . 464 East Walnut St., (818)795-0696. SEE NOTEWORTHY, Page 18 Second Stone-May/June,_ 1993 .IJll NOTEWORTHY From Page 17 Ministry plans trip to Latin America LI.OTHER SHEEP Multicultural Ministries is planning a four-month trip through some 20 countries in Latin America to develop and support ministries with a specific outreach to Gays and Lesbians. The trip will begin in Dallas and take them through Central America, down the Pacific side of South America and back up the Atlantic side, returning again through Central America. For information on Other Sheep Ministries or this trip write to John Doner, 5105 Belmont Ave., Dallas, TX 75206 or call (214)827-0804. Reconciling pastors to advocate lesbian/gay ministries AA RECONCILING PASTORS' Action Network has been launched to advocate the full inclusion of lesbian, gay and bisexual persons within the United Methodist Church. This new network is being organized by the Reconciling Congregation Program, a national movement of 63 United Methodist congregations that publicly welcome all persons, including Lesbians and Gays. "While the focus of the RCP continues to be the local church," said Mark Bowman, pro- Coming Out means telling the truth about our lives ... a family value we can live with. Please give generously to the most effective campaign · 01,r community will ever wage. NATI0NALC0MI,NGOUTOAY· OCT0BER11 PO Box 8270, SANTA FE, NM 87504-8270 • 505-982-2558 Yourcontnbutlon is"tu:-deductlble gram coordinator, "we need to build a network of church profes~ionals who wish to publicly identify with our growing movement." The spark to initiate RP AN came during the February meeting of the RCP board of directors in response to reports of United Mehtodist pastors being threatened or reprimanded for carrying out ministries with Lesbians and gay men. It will be a network of activists confronting homophobia within the United. Methodist Church and advocating the removal of all bars to full participation of lesbian, gay and bisexual persons. United Methodist church professionals interested in RP AN should contact the RCP, 3801 N . Keeler Ave., Chicago, IL 60641, (312)736-5526. Restoration Ministries helps Gays, Lesbians with first step LI.REV. ALLEN PHILLIPS has formed a ministry in Schenectady, New York, to help gay and lesbian Christians, especially those from Pentecostal, evangelical and fundamentalist backgrounds, accept their homosexuality. Phillips also .plans to minister to people with AIDS, with a special focus on newly-diagnosed HIV+ people. Restoration has published a brochure entitled "Help! I'm HIV+! Now What" which is available free by sending a stamped, self-addressed For your convenience you may now FAX: · EDITORIAL •Letters to the Editor •Newsclips •Colendar items SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES •New subscriptions •Renewals •Gift subscriptions •Address changes ADVERTISING •Classified ads •Insertion orders or space reservations (504)891-7555 Classified SPECIAL FIRST TEN WORDS FREE! Meet a new customer for your business ... a new friend in a city you'll be visiting soon .. . a new pen pal. .. the possibilities are exciting! Second Stone classifieds r each readers in every state and many foreign countries. 20 words just $3.50! 30 words just $7.00! Use the order form on the classified page or FAX your ·ad to (504)891-7555, including classifica t ion , months to run and bill ing address. 20 word minimum. Each additional word , 35¢. t I 11 · envelope to P .O. Box 1123, Sd1enectady, NY 12301-1123. Pastor Phillips may be reach ed at (518) 372-6001. . Dignity chapter started in Hawaii LI.DIGNITY /MAUI was scheduled to have its first meeting at high noon on th e . first day of spring. Gay and lesbian Catholics who are interested in gathering with Dignity for fellowship and worship may contact Kihei, (808)874-3950. Christthe Redeemer fACC installs new pastor LI.REV. LEE CAMPBELL was installed on March 7 as pastor of Christ the Redeemer MCC, Evanston, Illinois. The church is located' at 933 Chicago Ave., (312)262-0099. Ministry announces logo contest LI.THE OPEN AND AFFIRMING Ministries Program of the Gay, Lesbian, and Affirming Disciples Alliance is seeking submissions in a contest to select a logo for "O&A Ministries. " The contest is open to members and friends of GLAD Alliance. Entries · must be postmarked by June 15th, 1993. For information contact Allen Harris, 1010 Park Ave., New York, NY 10028-0991. Affirmation chapter provides support for gay and lesbian Mormons LI.GAY AND LESBIAN MORMONS in the Alexandria, Virginia; area, have a very active chapter of Affirmation for support and fellowship. The group offers a Mormon support group and a monthly chapter meeting. For information, call (202)828-3096 and leave a message for Fred or Kirn. Wheaton College gay and lesbian alums organize Ll.P AUL PHILLIPS, of the entertainment team Rornanovsky & Phillips, is organizing a gay and lesbian alumni group for his alma mater, Wheaton College, a conservative, non-denomination evangelical Christian school located 30 miles west of Chicago. Phillips says that he was motivated to form the group after hearing about a young student on the Wh eat on campus who had taken his own life due in part to his inablility to come to terms with his sexual identity. "It is my hope that there will finally be some open dialogue about Gays and Lesbians at Wheaton," said Phillips . "I was in the class of '76 and I came out of th e closet in my freshman year at Wheaton. At the time, I was the only 'out' gay person there. The campus was in complete denial that there were other gay and lesbian people in their midst. " In just a few month s, more . than 60 other gay/ lesbian alums from throughout the U.S. and abroad have signed up. Wheaton alumni include Rev. Billy Graham and conservative Republican Senator Dan Coats. For information about th e Wheaton Gay & Lesbian Alumni Association, contact Paul Phillips, 369 Montezuma #209, Santa Fe, NM 87501. Atlanta congregation votes to purchase new building LI.FIRST MCC of Atlanta members vote<! on March 21 to purchase a new church building. The 164-rnernber church recently celebrated its 21st charter anniversary. The building , located at North Druid Hills and Tully Road, will house a 500 seat sanctuary, multiple offices for ministerial and counseling staff, a kitchen, a dining area and four large meeting rooms. r Network provides support for lesbian mothers Ll.MOMAZONS, A NATIONAL organization for lesbian mothers and for -Lesbians who want children in their lives, has been formed to provide an opportunity for Lesbian s to explore options in bearing, : adopting, raising or being involved with children. "We've been organizing here in . Central Ohio for more than 5 years, and over 100 local w·ornen and their children have been participating in Momazon meetings," said Mornazoris' founder . and director, Dr. Kelly McCormick. Mornazons produces a bimonthly newsletter, faciiitating a national dialogue about Lesbians' experiences and opinions about considering children, creating a family , blending families, child rearing, and other issues of significance to lesbian mothers and their families. For information · on Momazons, write to P .O . Box· 02069, Columbus, OH 43202 or call (614) 267-0193. Bulk Copies Available • • • • • • • • • • • • • OF THIS ISSUE OF SECOND STONE For church/group distnbu tion, conferences, bar ministry, etc . 10 copi e s - $ 13 .50 • 25 copies - $29. 50 • 50 copies - $45.00 100 copi e s - $67 .50 includ es po stage an d handl ing Limited quantily ol back issues available FREE, add $5 .0 0 p os tage l or eve ry 50 co pies Send your pre-paid order to Second Stone, P.O. Box 8340. New Orleans, LA 70182 Resource Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Listings in the Resource Guide are free .to churches, organizations, publications and community services. Send information to Second Stone, Box 8340, New Orleans, LA , 70182 or FAX to (504)891-7555. National EVANGELICALS CONCERNED, c/o Dr. Ralph Blair, 311 Easl 7200 SI .. New York, NY 10021. (212)517-3171. Pul>icalions: Review aoo Record. CONFERENCE FOR CATHOLIC LESBIANS, P.O. Box 436 P~netarium Sin,~ York, NY 10024. (607)432-9295. RELIGION WATCH, P.O. Box 652, North Bellmore, NY 11710. A CTi'f~iie;~~~~~~~~ /~~~~~~l~~:g~ 10461, ........... ~ ... Box 7331, Lousville, KY 40257. (502)893-0783. . FEDERATION OF PARENTS AND FRIENDS OF LESBIANS AND GAYS;INC. P.O. Box 27605, Washingon, DC 20038. Seoo ~<ficJWc'~!~ 0 it~;~~TAL AWANCE (also Pentecoslal Bible· lnslitute !Ministerial training!) P.O. Box 1391, Scheneclact,,, NY 12301-1391 .. (518)372-6001. PLIJlicalion: The Aposlolic Voice. DIGNITY/USA, ·1500 Massachusells Ave., rm, Sle. 11, Washington, DC 20005. (800)8'7-8797. Gay and lesbian Calholics and !heir lriends. MORE LIGHT CHURCHES NEN.ORK, 600 W. Fullerton Pkwy., Chicago, IL 60614-2690, (312)338-0452. Resource packet, $12 . . Pul>icalion: More Lighl Churches Netv.ork Newsleller Alabama Fort DeartxJm Slalion, Chicago, IL 60610-046l . PtJJlicalion: BIRMINGHAM . THE ALABAMA FORUM, P.O. Box 55894, i~ii~~E~ANSFOR LESBIAN& GAY CONCERNS, P.O. Box 35255-5894. (~)328-9228. 38, New Brunsv.ick, NJ 08903·0038. Pul>icalion: More Ughl ~~~~SAL FELLOIMlHIP OF METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES 5300 Sanla Monica Blvd, ~4. Los Angeles, CA ~lfh~mt~l~~~~~~~irJs':tNANDGAY CONCERNS, Box 65724, Washington, DC 20035. Pul>icalion: 8~1 1¥~~• CHURCH COALITION FOR LESBIAN I GAY CONCERNS, 18 N. College, Alhens, OH45701, (614) 593-7301. ~~~~nbX'v~VENTISTS KINSHIP INTER NA TIONAI., Box 3840, Los Angeles, CA 90078, (213)876-2076. Publicalion: Connectipn RECONCILING CONGREGATION PROGRAM, P.O. Box 23636, Washington, DC 20026, (202)863-1586. Pul>icalion: Open 11:ri~RITY, INC., P.O. Box 19561, Washngon,_.DC20036-0561, lfcim:ii~l\';_'f~Jr~Rb°tP~b 1t~ . Villa Grar<le, CA 95486·0032. Holy Spirt Church,. Easl Moline, IL, (309)792-6188. SI. Michael's Church, Russian River, CA, (707) 865-0119. PtJJlicalion: The Table!. LIVING STREAMS, P.O. Box 178, Concord, CA 94522-0178. Bi-monthly publication. AIDS NATIONAL INTERFAITH NETWORK, 300 I St., NE, Ste. 400, Washifl!1on, DC 20002 .. (800)288-9619, FAX (202)546-5103. Publication: lnteraction. NATIONAL CENTER FOR LESBIAN RIGHTS • 1663 Mission St, 51h Fir., San Frardsco, CA 94103. GAY AND LESBIAN PARENT COALITION, P.O. Box 50360, Washington, DC 20091. Publicaiion: Nelwork. . . . THE 1'141NESS, Published ti/ the Episcopal Church Pul>rshng Co., 1249 Washingon Blvd, Ste. 3115, Delrorl, Ml 48226-1868. fm~:~NAL GAY ANO LESBIAN ARCHIVES, The Nalalie Barney Edward Carpenler library, P.O. Box 38100, Hollywood, g~m~s (=~112';:7 ~J;:!/;~~l;\~e~~ess, Inc, PO Box ~c?oi~M~~ ~1 ~tCX:ure 1ravel lor women, 25 W. Diamond lake Rd., Minneapolis, MN 55419, (800)279-0555, (612)822-3809, FM (612)822-3814. DAUGHTERS OF SARAH : The magazine for Chrislian Femi~sts, 3801 No. Keeler, Chicago, IL 60641, (312)736-3399 .. CHI RHO PRESS - A special work of lhe UFMCC M1d-Allanl1c Dislricl. Publisher of religious oooks aoo malenals. P.O. Box . bt~~~m1:tn'8NM~1t'll,~R~ 1 1~~ 1 i~ior,ie and SU rt group for gay and lesl>an Calholic cler!l)'. and religous. 'rci. Box 60125, Chicago, IL 60660-0125. Publicalron: Communication WOMENS ALLIANCE FOR THEOLOGY, ETHICS AND RITUAL, 8035 131h SI., Silver Sprii MD 20910 (301)589-2509, FM f ~~:J,;}]5°iJj~~~"'/;A T~Ei tid6~MUMON, 258 Aspen St., 811, Arroyo Grar<le, CA 93420. (805)473-2510. Pul>ical1on: The Free Calholic Communicant. . INDEPENDENT CHURCH OF RELIGIOUS SCIENCE, 4102 Easl mf~ms~'.&8 ~~-g~PJ~i~ltr~:~TISTS . Box 2171, 256 So. Roberlson Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90213. (818)700-0827. AFFIRMATION: Gax & Lesbian MDfmons, P.O. Box 46022, Los Ang,les, CA 00046. (213)255-7251. AFFIRMATION/United Methocisls for Gay & lesbian Concerns, P.O. Box 1022, Evarolo~ IL 00204. . ST. TABITHA'S· AIDS APOSTOLA TE, Chrisliari AIDS Nelwork of lhe Merican Orthocllx Calholic Church ol SI. Gregonos, P.O. ti 1 ~M~:J~~~~~.f:~~o:~\i 1e Rock, AA 72200. · (501)372-5113. Workshops on women's issues, social juslice, racism and homophobia. . . . EMERGENCE International: A Community of Christian Scientists .Supporting Lesbians and Gay Men. P.O. Box ~161, San Ralael, CA94912-9161. (415)485-1881. PtJJlicalion: Emerge! GAYELLOWPAGES • P.O. Box 292, VIiiage Sin., NewYDf~ NY ~~8/fbt:>ti~ATION CONFERENCE, PO Box 2693, Fairlax, VA22001-0693. (703)352-1006. GAY, LESBIAN AND AFFIRMING DISCIPLES ALLIANCE, P.O. Box 19223, lndianapoHs, _IN 46219-0223 .. (319)324-6231. _For members ot lhe Chnst,an ·church (D,scrples o1 Chnsl). Publication: Crossbeams. _ NEW DIRECTION Magazine lor gaynesbian Mormons, 6520 Selma Ave., Ste. RS-440, Los Angeles, CA 90028. BLK Magazine, Box 83912, Los Angeles, CA 90083-0912. ~JW~~MINISTRY, 4012291hSI., Ml. Rainier;MD20712, 1:~~2 ~ 7 · 55 [!n:u~ay;~r~n~o~i~r::1rc r~~~h~ !he HONESW, Soulhern tptist Acllocates for Equal Rights, P.O. Arizona PHOENIX • lion ol Judah Minislries, P.O. Box 26531, 85068-6531. (602)997-5372. Chuck Shamblin, Bert Miller, ~g~r\:ornerslone Fellow.;hip, 2902 N. Geronimo, 85705. (602)622-4626. Rada Schatt, Paslor. MESA - Bouooless love Communily Church, 431 S. Stapley 'Dr., 85204. (602)439-0224. P.J. Fousek-Grega~ paslor. SUnday, 10:00arn TUCSON - Casa De la Paloma Aposlolic Churcl\ 1122 N. Jones Blvd, P.O. Box 14003, 85732-4003. (602)323-6855. Rev. Margaret 'Sanct,,• Lev.is, paslor. California SAN LUIS OBISPO-MCC ol lhe Central Coast, P.O. Box 1117, Grover Cily, 93483-1117, (805)481•9376. SUnday, 10:30a.m. Rev. Ranct,, A. Lester, Pastor. SACRAMENTO - Koinonia Chrislian Fellowship, P.O. Box 189444, 95818. (916)452-5736. Tom Ross, Pastor. SACRAMENTO- THE LATEST ISSUE, P.O. Box 160584, 95816. ~fi~b~YWOOD - Eva~gelicals To lher, Su;te 109-Box 16 7985 Sanla Monica Blvd., Wesl ~lywood, CA 90046, (213)656-8570. PLl:licalion: ET New.; SAN FRANCISCO· LUlherans Concerned, 566 Vallejo SI., 1125, 94133-4033 (415)956-2069. PtJJlication: Acllenl. SAN FRANCISCO • Gay and Lesbian Hislorical Sociely ol Northern California, P.O. Box 42126, 94142. (415)626·0980. POO!ication: Our Stories. SAN FRANCISCO • The Parsonage, 555-A Caslro SI., 94114-0293. Publication: The Parsonage New.; ARROYO GRANDE • SI. Breooan Free Calholic Church . Aposlo~le 258 Aspen St., Nll,-93420. (805)473-2510 CONCORD =·Free Calholic Aposlolale ol lhe Redeemer, 1440 DelroitAve 1/'J, 94520. (510)798-5281. SAN FRANCISCO • DIGNITY, 208 Dolores St, , 94103. (415)255-9244. Pttllicalion: Bndges. . . GLENDALE. Divine Redeemer MCC, 346 Riverdale Dr., 91204. Suooay, 10:45 a.m, Wed, Fn., 7:30 p.m. Rev. S1an Harns, paslor. Publicalion: From Mary's Shrine. APPLE VALLEY - li<111 of lhe Desert Church, Inc., P.O. Box 247, 92307. (619)247-2512. Sunday, 6:30 p.m. Non-denominalional Christian church. SAN JOSE· Hosanna Church of Praise, 24 No. 51h SI., 95112. Publication: _Celebralirg His Lile; Sharing His Love Colorado DENVER - Evangelicals Reconciled, P.O. Box 200111,'80220, (303)331-2839. Colorac!J ~ings : (719)488-3158. . DENVER • Evangelicals Concerned I Weslem Region, P.O. Box 4750, 80204. Pul>ication: Ttl:Cal>e. Connecticut HARTFORD-MCC, P.O. Box 514, 06016, (203)724-4605. SLOO!y, 7:00 p.m. The Meeting House, 50 Bloomheld Ave. D1Strrct of Columbia lntegity/Washington, Inc., P.O. Box 19561, 20036-0561. (301 )953-9421. Publ~alion: Gay'!)ling. MCC of Weshington, DC, 415.M St., N.W., 20001. Rev. l arryJ. Uhrig, paslor. ALEXANDRIA, VA. - St. Gyril's Easlern Chnslian Fellowship, 6036 Richmooo tt,,y., ~1, 22303, (703)329-7896. A Byzanline Christian· community. Florrda ST. PETERSBURG - King of Peace MCC, 4825 91h Ave. N., 33713-6135. (813)323-5857. Sundir{, 10:00a.rn & 7:30 p.rn Rev. Dr. Fred C. WIiiams, Sr., Paslor. . CLEARWATER - Free Catholic Church of the Resurrecl1on, 303 N. tMle Ave., 34615. (813)442-3867. . WEST PALM BEACH - MCC, 3500 45th SI., #2A, 33409: (407)687-3943. Sunday, 9:15 & 11:00 a.m. Services also in Fl. P~rce, (407)687•3943 and Pt. st. Luce, (407)340-0421. FORT MYERS • St. John lhe Aposlle MCC, 2209 Unily al lhe corner o1 Broacl.vay. (813)278-5181. Suooay, 10:00 a.m., 7:00 p.m. Rev. James lynch. Georgia ATLANTA - SOUTHERN .VOICE, ·P.O. Box 18215, 30316. (404)876-1819. ATLANTA. All Sainls Metropolilan Communily Church, P.O .. Box 13968, 30024. (404)822-1154 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ~ Hawaii KAHULUI • BOTH SIDES NOW Newsleller, P.O. Box 5042, . 96~ . Illinois CHICAGO • OUTLINES, Published by lambda Publicalions, 3059N. Solltp011, 60657. (312)871-7610. FM (312)871-7609. Louisiana W'Jrcl~~J; ?fu.r:0,0r:R::~i:1J:~~~°iv Box 3768, 10m. NEW ORLEANS-Vieux Carre MCC, 1128 St. Roel\ 70117-7716. (~ )945-5390. SUnday, 10:00 a.m Shelley Hamitton, Pastor. Maryland THE BALTIMORE Al TERNA TIVE, P.O. Box 2351, Balli more, Mp 21200. (301)235,3401. FAA(301)889-5665. Massachusetts CHERRY VALLEY· Morning S1ar MCC, 231 Main St., 01611. (508) 892-4320. Publicalion: Morning Star IMlness. Michigan DETROIT.· CRUISE Mag:,zine, 19136 Wocx!.vard North, 48203. (313)369,1901. FUNT. Redeemer MCC, 1665 N. Chevrolel Ave., 48504·3164. ~~~l~~~~'.~J~~f t~~rRev Linda J. Stoner, Paslor. ANN ARBOR • Huron Valley Communily Church meels at Glacier Way UMC, 1001 Green Rd., Ann Arbor, 48105-2896. (313)741-1174. SLOO!y, 2:00 p.m. DETROIT -lrlegily, 98011.!ilmore, '205, 48203. GRAND RAPIDS • Belhel Chr~lian Assembly, 920 Cherry SE, P.O. Box 6935, 49516. (616)459-8262 Rev, Bruce Rol~r-P~lcher, pastor. Plblicalion: Bethel Beacon Television: Channel 23, ~i'r 1i~mi I Lansing - Ecclesia. Affirming church meels al People's Church, 200 W. Grand River. Sunday, 8:15 p.m. . ANN ARBOR • Tree o1 Lile MCC, meels at Frrsl Con9"egalional Church, 218 N. Adams, Ypsilanli. P,O. Box 2598, 48106. (313)665-6163. Su"day, 6:00 p.rn DETROIT • Men of Color Motivalional Grol.l) meets Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. al St. Mallhevls and St. Joseph's Episcopal Chlrch, 8850 Wocx!.vard (313)871-4750. Minnesota MINl'EAPOLIS • EQUAL TIME, 310 E. 381h St., Room 207, 55409. (612) 823-3836. PtJJli- ti/ lavendar, Inc. MINNEAPOLIS • All Gods €hildren Melropolilan Communily Church, 3100 Park Ave. S. (612)824-2673. Pul>icalion: The Discir>e. Mississippi JACKSON •. St. Stephen's Uniled Community Church, 4872 N. ?teKfot~J.;frJ;TJ~!~?~: 1 io<:e'. 1~~ 71:6x 7737, 392PA-n37, (601)373-8610. JACKSON· Phoenix Coalilion, Inc., P.O. Box 7737, 39284-7737. Counseling services. (601 )373-8611Y(601)939-7181. New Jersey HOBOKEN· The Oasis, 707 Westin(ton St., P.O. Box 5149, 01cm. (201) 792-0340. New Mexico SANTA FE - THE GATSBY OONNECTION, 551 W. Corc!Jva, Ste. DiE, 87501. (505)986-1794. New York NEW YORK • Lesbian and Gay Communily Services Genier, Inc., 208 W. 131h St., 10011. (212)620-7310. Ptijicalions: Genier ~i\g~t~rl~~~~. PO Box 5202, 10185-0043. Pul>icalion: Oullook. ROCHESTER - THE EMPTY CLOSET, 179 Allanlic Ave., l1Ji°l;N:5eo~:~~i ~'~r'J~~iJl':r.1\:;;"'~~x Church, P.O. Box 9073, 12209. -(518)346-0207. Falher Herman, CSJn, Guardian. Plblicalion: Metanoia. .................. (513)252-8855. Penlecostal, charis,;.,lic meels Sunday, 10:00 a.m. 546 Xenia Ave. samuel Kader, Pastor. COLUMBUS.• Melropolilan Community Church, 1253 North High Street, 43201. (614)294-3026. Sunday, 10:30 a.m. Publicalion: The Beacon New.;. COLUMBUS - STONEWALL UNION REPORTS, Box 10814, 43201-7814, (614)299-7764. Oklahoma OKLAHOMA CITY - Holy T rinily Ecumenical 9alholic Church, 2328 N. MacArthur, P.O. Box 25425, 73125, (405)942-2604. Fr. . Marty Martin, paslor. Oregon PORTI.AND • American Friend» Service Committee Gay and lesbian Progam, 2249 E. Burnside, 97214, (503)230-9427. Contact Dan. Pennsy Iva ma ALLENT0\1,1',J - GraceCovenanl Fellow.;hip, 247 N. lOlh St., 18102. (215)740-0247. · Bryon Rowe, Paslor. Thom Ritter, Minister of Music.- Tennessee NASHVILLE· Dayspring Fellow.;hip,. 120-B So. 111h SI., Box 68073, 37206. (615)227-1446. PtJJlicat~n: Son Shine. NASHVILLE· lnlfl!J'ily of Middle Tennessee, Inc .. P.O. Box 121172, 37212-1172 (615)383-6008. Nev,sleller. • Texas DALLAS· Whle Rock Communilv Church, P.O. Box 180063, 75218. (214)285-2831, (214)327-9157. Surday, 10:30 a.m. Jerry Coo~ Paslor. ~~~i~~rl~~ PO Box 190051, 75219-0351. (214)520-0912 AUSTIN • Joan ·Wakelord Minislries, Inc., 9401·8 Grouse Meaoow Ln., 78758-6348, (512)835-7354. DALLAS • Silent Harvest Minislries, P.O. Box 190511, 75219-0511. (214)52().tl,55, MIDLAND _. Holy Trinily Community Church, 1607 S. Main, 79701. (915)570-4822. Rev. Glenn E. Hammell, Pastor. Publication:Trinitv Tribune DALLAS • Holy 1rinilv Communilv Church, 4402 Roseland, 75204. (214)827-5088. Rev. Frederick Wrighl, Pastor. Pul>icalion: The Chariot HOUSTON • Community Gospel Church, 501 E. 181h al Columbia. (713)880-9235. Sunday, 11:00 a.m. Chris Chiles, Pastor. HOUSTON • Houslon Mission Church, 1633 Marshall, 77006 Sunday, 10:30 a.m. Rev. Rebert L Carter, Pas!Of. HOUSTON • MCC/Resurreclion, 1919 Decatur, 77007. (713)861-9149. Rev. John Gill, Paslor. Publicalion: The Good News HOUSTON. Oignily, 1307 Yale, #H, P.O. Box 66821, 77266. (713)880-2872 Salurday, 7:30p.m HOUSTON - Kingdom Community Church, 614 E. 191h St., 77008. (713)862-7533(713)748-6251. SL001y, 11:00 am. LUBBOCK - Lesbian/Gay Alliance, Inc., P.O. Box 64746, 79464-4746. (806)791-4499. PtJJlicaUon: larrlxl! Times. Virginia ROANOKE. MCC of lhe Blue Ai~,' P.O. Box 20495, 24018, (703)366-0839. Pul>icalion: The Blue Ric)Qe Banner fiOANOKE • BLUE RIDGE LAMBDA PAESS, P.O. Box 237, 2®2 , (700)890-3184 FALLS CHURCH - MCC ol Northern Virginia, 7245_lee ~lrsaycfi2S~H . Aflirmalion Gay & Lesbian Mormons, P.O. ~~IfFch~~~1:~~s. PO Box 3390, 22043. (703)560-2680. Baplist gro4>. Washington SEATTLE GAY NEIMl, 704 E. Pike, 98122. (206)324-4297. FAA (206)322-7188 SEATTLE - Grace Gospel Chapel, 2052 NW 641h St., 98107. (206)784-8495. Sunday, 11 :00 am. & 7:00 p.rn, Wedlesday, 7:30 ~l~H~ L:'~~'/;;,;~ !j)5 McMunay, 00352 (509)943-3927 Open and affirming cong-egation. · TACOMA • Hillside Communily Church, 2508 SoUlh 391h St., 98<m. (206)475-2388. West Virginia NEW YORK - AXIOS Eastern and Orthooox Christians, P.O. Box 756, Village Sin., 10014. Secooo Friday, 8:00 p.m., MORGANT0\1,1',J. Freedom Fellow.llip Church, P.O. Box 1552, Communily Center, 208 West 131h St. · 26505 (304)291-6940 · SCHENECTADY • lighlhouse Aposlolic Church, 38 Columbia . . · . St., P.O. Box 1391, 12301-1391. (518)372-6001. Rev: IMlliam H. Carey, pastor. LONG ISLAND/NEW. YORK • International Free C_alholic Churcl\iGood Shepherd Church, P.O. Box 436, Cenlral Islip, 11722, (516)723-0348. Rev. Ms!J'. Rdlert J. Al,nen, paslor. North Carolina CHARLOTTE· Melroliira Sv.ilctlloard, (704)535-6277. P.O. Box ~\.t:1~6N - GROW Communily Service Corporation, P.O. Box 4535; 28406. (919)675-9222. Ymih ootreach: ALIVE ID! r;,y, lesbian, bisexual youlli. . RALEIGH - Raleigh Religious Network for Gay aoo Lesbian Eq,afrty, P.O. Box5961, 27650-5961. (919)781-2525. v.\NSTON-SALEM ·• Pieanonl Religious Nelwork for Gay and Lesbian EqJal!y, P.O. Box 15104, 27113-0104. (919)766-9501. Ohro DAYTON - Community Gospel Church, P.O. Box 1634, 45401 International LONDON • Lesbian and .Gay Christian Movement, Oxlo~d House, Defyshire St., Loooon E2 6HG, UK, 071-739-1249. Listings are free at the request of the organization. Send to Second .Stone, Box 8340, New Orleans, LA 70182 or fax to (504)891-7555. Second Stone-May/June, 1993 fjjl . l= Classiiieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ·Books & Publications "WONDERFUL DIVERSITY," "Heartily recommended," "Philosophically intriguing, 1' "Excellent." Why do ·reviewers highly esteem CHRISTIAN*NEW AGE QUARTERLY? 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Letter and resume to: Freedom in Christ Evangelical Ch urch , Box 14462 , San Francisco , CA 94114. 12/93 JOURNEY, From Page 13 shared and riurtured so we can remain and become even more of a vibrant ; life-affirming, all-inclusive, welcoming, life-model community for ourselves, the institutional church, and for other spiritual groups . If we believe, we must speak out. . If we ·believe, we must decide whether to stay, restate our needs, and be responsible for. helping to fulfill them· - here or elsewhere. If we believe in inclusivity and feminist perspective, indeed if we believe in creating women -welcome space, we must continue our drive toward inclusivity jn all areas for · all peopleand ·move away from condescendingly discrimi- ~.ft] Second Stone-May/June, 1993 1 1 I 1. 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LA 70182 appears [ ]Travel I ~------------ · -----------------------------------------------' MONKS, From Page 9 and not have to deal with obdurate, righteous ecclesiastical superiors waiting to slam shut the closet doors. Maybe it's lime we start to look for creative, insightful, "gay" ways of recreating monasticism. Perhaps some of us will decide we'd be much happier and live fuller, longer lives if we exercised our freedom and chose to liquidate our possessions and move 'into collective farms and communes and artist colonies in the countryside, the sort · I've written about in my novel, Getting Life in Perspective. After all; gay liberation developed out of the sixties' counter-culture with its idealized notions of such alternatives. Now with the twenty years of maturation and economic sophistication and practical knowchow gained since the Summer of Love, a battlescarred generation might be ready to re-embrace those teenage utopian ideals. _ Perhaps many of us will find that natory rituals and structures. We must be creative Christians moved by the Spirit, not co-dependent Christians imprisoned by shame . Let us listen to the gifts and visions of our women and ·our men. We ,must continue to promote social justice · through our various ministries, through academic research, through education, spiritual ' · development, social interaction, and individual and communal affirmation of ourselves as gay men and Lesbians. We must continue to reach out to the marginalized in our own community and in the larger community . We must emulate the personhood of Jesus as the answers to the devastation ot . AIDS will lie in discovering solitude and examining the big questions aboμt life arid death. There is certainly a continued need for political action, lobbying for scientific research, and experimentation with . medical solutions. We have reason to be outraged. But what's the point of going to the grave · outraged? Requiescant in pace. . I, for one, hope to find a big house for my lover and me somewhere in the woods. Around us I'd like . to · develop a community of old and new friends involved in in'editation and exercises for the raising and merging of consciousness, a community , engaged in a variety of cottage industries such as bee-keeping, psy~ho- . therapy, creative arts, and most specifically, -gay tourism . Indeed, providing lodging for travelers and retreatants has almost always been one of the functions of the monastery. With our gay ingenuity we certainly ought to be _able to recreate the best parts _of an otherwise disappearing institution, while simultaneously cultivating our. so1,1ls and growing old gracefully. _ androgynous loving friend, gifted healer, believing child, and builder of community, We can then rightfully be called Christian. and be spirited mentors and loving, healing friends for each other. In this way, we can help to continue the vibrant, crucial holy journey of our own gifted lives and of our liberating community . Christine Coughlan is chair of the Committee for • Women's Concerns, Dignity/USA . . This is an excerpt of a homily offered at the 1991 Dignity Convention- in Washington, D.C. Reprinted from the Dignity/USA Journal. ARE YO U MOVING? The Post Office will not forward The Second Stone, You must notify us for uninterrupted service if you move. Please notify us four weeks in advance for uninterrupted delivery Send both old and new addresses . 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