Ripples - June 2009

Southwest Conference takes ONA vote

Congratulations to the Southwest Conference of the UCC for a 136-11 vote in favor of becoming an Open and Affirming Conference.

The resolution:

BE IT RESOLVED that we, the members of the Southwest Conference of the United Church of Christ, in all aspects of its administrative, program and worship life, declare the Southwest Conference to be Open and Affirming (ONA) of all persons, specifically including those who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender. We covenant with God and one another to extend welcome and Christian fellowship to all followers and seekers of Christ without fear, prejudice, or discrimination in regard to sexual orientation, gender identity, race, age, ethnicity, nationality, physical, mental or emotional condition, education, financial situation, biblical or theological interpretation, or any other circumstance that has historically been a barrier to full life, participation, membership, mission, work and ministry in the Southwest Conference of the United Church of Christ. We embrace all persons as equal partners in the Body of Christ with unlimited access to opportunity of service to God, and;

To read Olive Elaine Hinnant's article describing the Conference context and the process for this achievement, visit www.ucccoalition.org/programs/ona/who/list/ona_celebrations/200906/.

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New Resource: All God's Children

All God’s Children is an essential guide to open and caring conversations with young children about gender and sexual orientation. You’ll find that this small, user-friendly book addresses your concerns, your questions, and your search for just the right words; it also suggests ideas for sermons and classroom activities. As you read, you’ll learn to model openness, respect, and the affirming belief that everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender difference, is a beloved child of God. Anyone who has a loving relationship with young children—parents, family, friends, pastors, Sunday School teachers—will benefit from reading and discussing All God’s Children. To learn more, please visit http://www.godloveseachone.org/allgodschildren/.

Or order through the United Church Press at https://secure3.convio.net/ucc/site/Ecommerce/483291932?VIEW_PRODUCT=true&product_id=21621&store_id=1

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Notes of Encouragement

Cy and Gordon Sherman have always supported their son Read, who came out many years ago. They’ve been especially important in the life of The Coalition because they spread their love widely. At many Coalition gatherings, after other words of welcome, Gordon has stood up, and said, “if you need a hug, we’re here to give one.” The Sherman’s advocacy for LGBT people has been a strong and steady embodiment of God’s extravagant welcome.

Gordon has had some significant surgery lately, and he would happily receive cards and notes. You may send those to 33 Christian Ave. 119, Concord, NH 03301.

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Highlighted Resource: TrueChild

TrueChild imagines a world where boys and girls are free from stereotypes so they can live, learn and grow to reach their full potential. Children today are exposed to thousands of messages telling them what they can and can't be as boys and girls. These messages limit them from exploring their true interests and talents. Researchers have crystallized links between early exposure to such stereotypes and problems later among teens like early sexual activity, bullying, eating disorders and academic underachievement.

TrueChild focuses on where the problem first begins, ages 0 to 12, as a powerful community bringing parents, educators and experts together to change children's culture. TrueChild Report Cards rate and review children's TV shows, commercials, websites, books and video games. TrueChild Research Briefs and online clearinghouse summarize the latest studies so parents and educators can stay informed.

For more information, visit www.truechild.org.

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Survey: Gay and Bisexual Dads

Are you a gay/bisexual dad? Would you be willing to answer some confidential questions about your life and about your family? The purpose of this study is to examine the many ways families headed by gay fathers have been created, explore how families function, and learn about the relationship between partners.

The study consists of an online survey and will take approximately 25–35 minutes of your time. To qualify for the study you have to identify as male, a father, and gay, bisexual or homosexual and have at least one child of any age; this child can be biological, adopted, foster, step, or other child. You do not need to be the child's legal parent to participate. This study has been approved by the University of Virginia IRB #2008-0407-00, and I am working with Dr. Charlotte J. Patterson who is a Professor of Psychology at the University of Virginia.

If you and/or your partner are interested in participating or want further information please contact Samantha L. Tornello (Principal Investigator) via email GayDadsStudy@gmail.com. You will be sent a web link that you can use to access the study.

Thank you for your interest and I hope to hear about your family soon!

Sincerely,

Samantha Tornello
Graduate Student, University of Virginia
(434) 243-8558
GayDadsStudy@gmail.com

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Proofreading, please!

Thanks to numerous people who have submitted website adjustments and other corrections to our listing of ONA congregations. I believe our online directory is up-to-date with all current adjustments, but would appreciate any further review of the list to see if I missed anything—or if there are additional changes needed.

Thanks!

Chris Paige
communications coordinator

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New ONA Settings

Welcome and congratulations to all recently declared ONA congregations!

The up-to-date list can be found here: http://www.ucccoalition.org/programs/ona/who/list/

Total active ONA congregations: 795

Note: We need your help to update our list of ONA churches to include website links. If your web link is missing, please contact communications@ucccoalition.org with updated information. Thank you!

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News, Events and Job Announcements

Please refer to our website for current listings of Newsbits, events and job announcements.

God's Extravagant Welcome
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