Letter from a Friend: A Faith That Supports the LGBTQI Community

Dear Friend,

I woke up this morning to a note from a friend of mine. I'd like to share it with you:

My dear friend,

     In light of recent events in Orlando I'm reaching out to let you know that you are loved, and that I stand with you. I feel sorrow for those who lost their lives and their families living out loss and grief. I feel sorrow for those who survived the tragedy and now have trauma to endure. I feel anger toward politicians who are trying to gain from this tragedy. I feel fear for you, the wider LGBTQ community and Muslim community as hate and vitriol surround you/them. For what it's worth, I support any and all of your efforts to be authentically you in this world that presents you with plenty of barriers to such authenticity. I love you, and hold you in my heart in a very special way.

All my love.

I know your heart is also heavy with frustration and sorrow. This weekend's horrific attack in Orlando is a stark reminder of the vital work we have left before us. But today, now more than ever, I want to thank you for your prophetic faith and courageous action on behalf of our LGBTQI siblings. It's people like my friend - and you - who are beacons of hope and love in a conflicted world. Together, we must send a strong and unequivocal message: hatred and violence have no place in our Church and world.

Be assured, we will continue the crucial work of making sure everyone, including those in the LGBTQI community, have a faith community that supports and loves them for who they are.

Prayers,

Ryan Hoffmann, Co-Executive Director