Why I Stay. . .

As I prepare for General Conference, I am confronted with a question from many of my friends. "Why do you stay in the United Methodist Church?"  As a young(ish) (31) gay man who is not called to ordained ministry, it seems easy enough to walk away from this church that keeps telling me through both its actions and words that I am unwelcome and unwanted.  If I am completely honest, this is a question that I am continuously trying to answer for myself.  My list changes almost daily, but these are the big reasons why I stay. 

I stay in the United Methodist church because this is my church.  I was born into a United Methodist family that had been involved in our predecessor denominations for generations (mom was a ME and dad an EUB).  The UM church is my home and a part of my identity.  The anti-GLBT language that has come out of General Conferences the last 30 or so years is not indicative of our entire history (read Will's blog on this topic).

I stay in the United Methodist church because this is where I learned about a faith community that has a commitment to social justice.  It has been taught to me that we are a people that go out into the world to change it.  Our mission statement is to make Disciples of Jesus Christ for the Transformation of the World.  Our Reconciling Movement is firmly rooted within the Wesleyan heritage and our mission.

I stay in the United Methodist church because of the community.  I was lucky enough to have been in a wonderful faith community that has helped in in the tough times of my life, especially during my coming out process.  I cannot imagine what would have happened to me if it had not been for a church and campus ministry - both reconciling communities - that helped me through this journey.  We need for every United Methodist church to be such a place of support to our GLBT community.

I stay in the United Methodist church because of the Reconciling Ministries Network.  I have been a part of several reconciling churches and a reconciling campus ministry.  Through RMN, I have met wonderful, justice seeking people throughout this denomination.  I stay because of the wonderful welcome and vibrancy of this community, and out of a sense of commitment to this family.

I stay in the United Methodist church because I have been called for "such a time as this" (Esther 4:14).  I stay to work for the inclusion of all people in our church including the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community and our allies.  This General Conference is one opportunity for us to stand up and stop the continued assault on our community and turn the church around.

I stay in the United Methodist church for now.  I am committed to continuing as long as I can, but it is a personal struggle every day.  Check back with me tomorrow ...

I look forward to discussing why you stay in the United Methodist church.  Peace with Justice.

Comments

[Faith]

I love this, absolutely love this. I've been asked this a few times as well, as if all problems can be solved by leaving and finding somewhere else. I usually include my vision that "Open hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors" will one day be really, truly true in our church. Thanks so much for posting this.