I am a pastor who is queer in the United Church of Christ,

And I stand here today, unapologetic, unafraid, and proud,

I am proud of who I am, of who I love, and of the God who made me this way,

For I know that I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

But it hasn’t always been easy, to be queer in a church that can be so divided,

To be a pastor, leading a congregation, with people on both sides,

To face judgment, discrimination, and rejection,

And to wonder if I could really make a difference.

But then I remember the words of Jesus, who welcomed all,

Who embraced the outcasts, the marginalized, and the lost,

Who showed us a love that knows no bounds,

A love that breaks down walls, and opens up new ground.

And so, I stand here today, as a pastor who is queer in the United Church of Christ,

Not because it’s easy, but because it’s necessary,

Because I believe that love is love, and that God’s love is for all,

And that it’s time for us to stand up, and to speak out.

For we are a people of love, of justice, and of peace,

A people who welcome all, who seek to make a difference,

And as we journey together, with all our differences and our struggles,

May we remember that we are loved, we are enough, and we are never alone.

So to all my queer siblings in the United Church of Christ,

To all who have faced discrimination, rejection, and hate,

Know that you are loved, you are valued, and you are seen,

And that you are a vital part of this community of faith.