From Elsbeth*

Doing pulpit supply is increasingly uncertain for me. I never realized how homophobic some churches were until people reacted in shock that I, an out queer person, was preaching at a particular local church. It was only then that I learned that the previous minister had been actively preaching that being gay or lesbian was a sin, actively preaching homophobia from the pulpit. I was shocked! First, I was shocked that it was commonly known, meaning that the congregation and Presbytery were okay with these messages; and then, even more shocked when I learned that being homophobic is okay according to our church policy. It made me feel betrayed about being part of what I thought was the LGBTQ justice church. I am still trying to reconcile my expectations with the human reality of our church. •

With thanks to Elsbeth*. Some identifying details have been changed.

#student #homophobia #Presbytery