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IRIDESCE

OUR STORIES

29 years ago, The United Church of Canada did something historic when it voted not to exclude gay and lesbian people from eligibility for ministry and membership. This vote was celebrated by many and brought communities together. At the same time, this vote proved deeply divisive for some communities. Iridesce is asking people to reflect on this time and this decision throughout our history.

Collected here are reflections, stories and community art that reflects our time of personal and community remembering, acknowledging, lament and sharing around topics of LGBTQ2+ experience in The United Church of Canada, from the time of our 1988 vote, through 'the issue years', up until today. You are welcome and invited to share about your experiences too.

Church on fire: a poem remembering 1988

Church on fire: a poem remembering 1988

I was there in 1988 and I remember… the congregational meeting and my shock that my dear congregation could rise up with words of hatred...

Presbytery asked minister to leave for her own safety

Presbytery asked minister to leave for her own safety

Listening to the conversations and stories today has surfaced memories I’ve not thought about for a long time… at least not in this way....

The "Do Not Hire" list. Threats. And other memories of the 1988 period.

The "Do Not Hire" list. Threats. And other memories of the 1988 period.

Background: This important story outlines the experiences of a minister newly ordained just before the 1988 period. This minister...

From 1988, Fear and Anger at the Institution and Its Representatives

From 1988, Fear and Anger at the Institution and Its Representatives

I have resisted the invitation to participate in Iridesce. After 35 years of ministry and on the cusp of retirement, I am surprised at...

1988 signalled the end of the Metropolitan Community Church I loved

1988 signalled the end of the Metropolitan Community Church I loved

I was there in 1988 when a minister we had sent from the Western Canadian District of Metropolitan Community Church (MCC) reported back...

My ask for an apology is personal: both Church and State abandoned me

My ask for an apology is personal: both Church and State abandoned me

I’ve been a queer activist all my life, starting in 1971 when I was the only woman to sign the ‘We Demand’ document, the first organized...

From Anne Squire

From Anne Squire

Anne Squire was at the founding of Affirm. At Morden Manitoba General Council amid the clash of argument that led to the United Church...

add your voice to the conversation.

QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU REFLECT

HOW TO CONTRIBUTE

To contribute your perspective or experience: write, make a video, create draw, paint, collage, collect artifacts… it’s up to you.

Email your contribution to livingapology@gmail.com along with a signed consent form. Download the form: PDF or .docx

Stories can be as anonymous (or not) as you prefer, and will never be shared without your clear consent.

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