Faithful Philly Forum

There is something quite interesting happening in the evangelical churches now. Soul Force has targeted the megachurches to help members understand, appreciate and fully accept the sexual minority communities in their midst. The initiative is called the American Family Outing from Mother’s Day to Father’s Day and will include 40 families who visit these churches to instigate conversations that will educate and hopefully, build bridges. The churches being targeted are those headed by persons (Isn’t is strange the loudest anti-gay voices are men?) who are on record as making statements against homosexuality. They include Joel Osteen, Bishop T.D. Jakes, Dr. Rick Warren, Bishop Harry Jackson, Jr., Bill Hybels and Bishop Eddie Long. But, in addition, to celebrate World AIDS day at an AIDS conference he hosted, Rev Rick Warren of the Saddleback Church noted that Christians must take responsibility for the spread of AIDS. These two announcements of course have stirred up the usual Bible-quoting legalists in response and civility can’t always be counted on by those most passionate. But, isn’t it exciting that the voices for inclusion and grace are finally being asserted? And, when the focus is to create understanding and tolerance, then compassion can’t be too far behind. Right? Let us keep that as our guiding principle. With compassionate people, justice will always follow.