1. Defining and Overcoming Obstacles to Inclusion - As Christians we're committed to including all who believe in Christ as part of our church family. Yet, when it comes to the full inclusion of GLBT persons, we've created barriers and obstacles. What are these obstacles and how can we work to overcome them?
2. Discovering the Bible As Our Friend, Not Our Enemy -- The Bible is intended to be an important pathway to a full and abundant life in union with Christ. Some have chosen to use this gift to exclude or limit the role of GLBT persons in the family of God. What does the Bible say and how can we use it to achieve a truly inclusive church family?
3. Why We Must Be Intentionally Inclusive -- The question is often asked: why must we openly express our commitment to the full inclusion of GLBT persons? We will explore why it's important as a church family to openly demonstrate our love for all, especially those who have been historically denied full participation in the church. Participants will also discuss the reasons for resistance to publicly affirming a congregation's intention to be inclusive, and how this resistance can be overcome.
4. What Resources Are Available for Networking? -- Each of our denominations offers both networking opportunities and resources which can be used to build a truly inclusive church. Also, each community or region provides opportunities for networking and support between congregations, and other faith groups and community resources. This workshop is designed to provide practical information and to explore new ways to strengthen, support and empower one another.
5. Supporting Clergy Leadership Toward an Inclusive Community of Faith -- The clergy play a very important leadership role in the development of a truly inclusive congregation. To accomplish this objective they need the help of lay members in the congregation. This workshop looks at the issue from the clergy perspective.
6. Getting Beyond the Myths and Stereotypes -- This workshop will identify stereotypes about GLBT persons and replace them with an understanding which opens the door to the full participation of GLBT persons in the Body of Christ. Acceptance of self and by others can replace the trauma, anger, grief and addiction experienced by so many. Life adjustment issues are key to growing toward full inclusion.
7. Defining a GLBT Ministry -- While GLBT persons want to play an important role in the mainstream of the congregation, they also have special spiritual needs which must be recognized and addressed. What are some of these issues? We will explore how these issues can be addressed.
8. Exclusion-Inclusion From A GLBT Perspective -- GLBT persons relate their personal experiences as members of our churches and offer some insights about possible ways to achieve the inclusive church Christ envisions.
9. Video Screening and Discussion -- Take a look at some excellent videos which you can use as a resource for education and to begin a dialogue within the congregation.
10. Creating A Healing Circle -- People have gathered in spiritual circles from time immemorial. This workshop will give participants guidelines and suggestions for forming and sustaining a healing circle, a group that comes together to intentionally pray collectively for healing and change. Participants will experience a healing circle to close our time together.
11. The Shower of Stoles Project -- The Stoles Project is a display of nearly 400 liturgical stoles of individuals who have been barred from their Christian calling because of exclusionary practices in the Church; individuals who have offered their stoles as a memorial to their dedication to a truly inclusive church; and individuals who have created special stoles to show their support for change. It is a visual testament to both the pain of exclusion and the commitment to fight for inclusion. Come and hear this wonderful story of how the project began and lives on. [Read more at http://www.churchnet.org/churchnet/stlukepres/stoleproj/home.htm]
12. A Family Journey: The Importance of Ministry to the Whole Family -- This workshop includes story, music and poetry. A family with a long history within the Lutheran Body of Christ relates their personal story of the effect of exclusion. When the Church embraces a policy of exclusion, the impact on individuals and families can be real, painful and transformational. Such exclusion affects the whole family of God and we are lesser for it.
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