In the last decade, as I wandered into rural areas as a minister, I almost never owned my support of those in same-sex relationships and those (straight and gay) working for same-sex marriage. My denomination, the United Church of Christ, fully supported these stands and preferences,  and, as far back as 2005,  authorized its ministers to perform same-sex unions (if the local church approved).

I, however, worked in rural, conservative towns, with people who did not support gay people or any other rights, other than white privilege. In Wyoming, before my time, they even killed a young gay man (Matthew Shepherd). I often wondered what to do as I ministered is such settings. Would I be able to open minds? Still, people who openly claimed to be ultra-conservative and anti-gay signed my contracts and paychecks. I decided not to speak for or against gay rights. I made it a non-issue. Didn’t matter, I thought. I am just one person. I took the same approach in the face of racist comments or when people were closed to considering more sustainable ag practices.

Then last summer, the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage. I did not feel free to celebrate the landmark decision in my church and kept mostly quiet on the topic, at first. I hated my silence. I felt like a cheater, a fraud. I disliked that I allowed job security to silence me on issues that mean so much to me. Within a few months, I decided that I would simply and without fanfare start to announce my positions on gay and other equal rights. I even confessed that I tend to vote Democrat.

The response was not positive! I left and have never looked back.

I knew it was the right thing to do, and standing up for what I believe in was the most empowering thing ever. I have a new freedom and have experienced many blessings. And, as I review possible minister positions in other churches, if I see any hint in their profile about racism, homophobia, and ultra-conservatism, I pass (probably the reason I don’t have a job yet). I would rather not work as a minister than serve in an intolerant setting. Other calls are nudging me, anyway.

When the Orlando shootings occurred a few days ago, I realized that something remained undone in my life: to declare to those who know me and those whom I have served in the past as a Christian Minister, that all of God’s children are special and sacred. To state clearly and for all to see: everyone deserves the full spectrum of human rights. Jesus was all about love and inclusion.

amen.