It was billed as a “Community conversation” about “Faithful responses to hostility” but nobody knew beforehand whether there would be much of a turnout for this June 25 gathering of Springfield’s seven “open and affirming” churches and the LGBTQ+ community they support. By 6 p.m. there were maybe 200 in the First Presbyterian Church sanctuary and organizers marveled at the enthusiasm for this event – part counter demonstration, part strategic organizing, and mostly affirmation for those marginalized. Speakers addressed “Theological grounds for celebrating Queerness,” “Harm done by lethal theologies,” and “Constructive strategies in response to opposition.” “The work of the church is love and justice,” said Jon Bormann, pastor of Heartland MCC church. “Love conquers all.” – Fletcher Farrar, editor
This article appears in Grillin’ and Chillin’ 2023.
