Transgender Press Conference

Audio:

Full audio recording of Transgender Press Conference including question and answer period:

YouTube: Rev. Drew Phoenix
St. John’s United Methodist Church, Baltimore, MD

YouTube: Sean Delmore
Program Director of MIT LBGT Center
Click here

YouTube: Diane DeLap
Spokesperson of Affirmation:  United Methodists for LGBTQ Concerns
Click here

YouTube: Tina Seitz
Transgender Woman, Member of United Methodist Church, Detroit, MI
Click here

Comments

[Alice Alt]

I am very proud to have Tina Seitz as a friend and fellow member of Waterford United Methodist Church in Waterford, MI. She is a loyal and active member and a wonderful addition to our congregation. I am so impressed by her courage to speak out openly.
I certainly agree that above all when making decisions the foundation of our thoughts should be " What would Jesus do?!" He calls us not to judge but rather to love and care for everyone. The great commandment is to " Love your neighbor as yourself". Our Methodist Discipline should reflect this view. The thing that is most inconsistent with Christian teaching is any statement that judges or causes harm to one of God's children.
I fully support the petition to the United Methodist General Conference to affirm and openly welcome all as members and pastors based on their devotion and faith rather than their sexuality. The time is long past when the United Methodist Church needs to spiritually have "Open Hearts, Hands, and Doors".
Alice Alt Member of Central United Methodist Church, Waterford MI.

[Stephen Elliott]

TO DEERSHAMAN:My life's. it's temper be- murdered cold-blooded - is what we used to see // I ain't been home for many a night -and now my life - it includes all who be. Going by my last scars - put the vast truth on - pray to God on high - I may end up finding some kinda "funny" - but that's completely right. Basic rights are in jeopardy- judgement, double-standards - diffusion, who you think you be? Can't you know what's God's proof - pull your deaf-mute's off - and not f**k with lives? You may end up spending all your money- but you shall be the wise. My life- with or without your decree- it's time to realize ALL are welcome - They're who HE wants them to be.

[Stephen Elliott]

Rev. Drew Phoenix, Drew, I am so sorry to attempt to burden you with my problems hat have arisen recently. To see how the UMC plans to discriminate against you in writing, and to view your very poignent and heartfelt Press Conference, I feel really small and selfish. God knows all the good you have done for me, all the love that you have shown me, and how you accepted and encouraged this homeless ex-junkie to be a part of the extraordinary community you have nurtured. I am so blessed to have St. John's in my life. You know how I feel about you, He knows how much better a Christian you have led me to become. YOU ARE the bravest person I have ever had the priviledge to call friend. God Bless You, Stephen