Spotlight Church: Affirming Belovedness at Longview Presbyterian Church

[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]The congregation at Longview Presbyterian Church, a longtime member of the Covenant Network of Presbyterians, has extended welcome to the neighborhood with bravery and creativity. Beyond joining our network of churches, this church in Longview, WA has hosted educational events for the congregation and community suggesting a number of ways for allies to support their LGBTQIA siblings. In 2017, an “LGBTQ 101” panel in the church sanctuary invited all individuals to begin addressing these topics. During the pandemic, a Zoom series provided concrete ways for members to grow in their solidarity to LGBTQIA individuals. Topics included recent anti-trans legislation, the importance of using a person’s chosen pronouns, and the difference between gender, orientation, and attraction. Finally, attendees brainstormed together about how the church could further extend its welcome to people of all identities.The church takes a leadership role in local Pride celebrations. With the exception of this past year, due to COVID-19, the church hosts a faith community table in addition to marching in the parade. Through this partnership with other open and affirming churches, the Rev. Liz Kearny says, visitors can “learn about local faith communities that are committed to affirming their identity and gifts.” Anyone interested in receiving a glitter blessing could receive the sign of the cross marked on their forehead in glitter alongside a spoken blessing declaring their belovedness. Kearny describes the Covenant Network of Presbyterians as a resource to connect across the denomination for support in her church’s local outreach. She added, “CNP was an available network of support when our church took a stand in our local presbytery for inclusion. We were so thankful not to be in that work alone, and CNP created a community to let churches like ours know we were supported by others all around the nation.”A rainbow sign on the church’s front lawn has displayed the church’s values even during the pandemic. Currently, the church is in conversation with other local faith communities about the creation of an ecumenical community group for LGBTQIA youth. To other churches considering CNP, Kearny offers this encouragement: “You are not alone in this work that is so critical to the Gospel! Get involved with CNP to find allies in the work of inclusion and to join a community that can sustain this life-affirming work all around the country.” [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]