In St. Louis this week, 53% of Methodist delegates voted to continue the “traditional model,” which opposes same-sex marriage and LGBT clergy, leaving some LGBTQ members and clergy excluded and heartbroken.
WaPo coverage at Twitter link below, and here: UMC Vote.
If you would like to make an appointment for pastoral counseling with our newest colleague, LGBT-supportive Methodist pastoral counselor, Rev. Dr. John G. Smith, please contact us by email or phone.
Reeling from contentious LGBT vote, some Methodists pledge to fight while others mull leaving https://t.co/yTCK5U6ouV
New York State Bans Dangerous Conversion “Therapy,” Protects Gender Expression in legislation passed today:
Monumental day for equality as NY passes bills protecting trans people from discrimination AND protecting LGBTQ youth from practice of so-called “conversion therapy.” @HRC has been working with advocates & leaders for years to make this day a reality! https://t.co/acMgKrq4re
Pennsylvania is NOT among the states to have passed a statewide ban on conversion “therapy.” Only 18% of our population is estimated to be protected by local bans in our state. Check out the maps on this site for more information:
A client today anonymously offers a quote that I’ve been hearing from others as well:
“I offer gratitude to those who’ve come out in the past, encouragement for those who will be coming out in the future, and support to those who don’t feel safe to come out yet. We see you.”
Today marks the 30th National Coming Out Day. A lot has changed since 1988. We've come a long way and still have a long way to go. We're just getting started! So, come out if you can! Be yourself! Gay, Bi, Trans, Pan, Aro, Ace! Show the world who you are! #NationalComingOutDaypic.twitter.com/7P8HyDmdS1
Barry Russell: “I believe Lancaster is the FIRST city to officially honor the contributions of LGBTQ+ people and our history…that is powerful!”
This coming Tuesday, Lancaster City will officially recognize October as LGBTQ History Month. Join us for the City Council meeting where this resolution will be officially adopted by the City of Lancaster! https://t.co/OHTEF7YA7z
This was my first year at Lancaster PA PRIDE FEST and I was not disappointed! There was so much love and happiness in the air the storms blew over and the sun shined for all. I’ve never seen so many amazing people living their best life! The shouts of happiness and pride filled the streets of Lancaster near and fair and brought smiles to each and every person there.
There was no shortage of support
Thousands of LGBTQ supporters attended the 11th annual fest. Vendors lined the 8 blocks of Water Street to show support along with politicians, schools, churches, and local companies. Crafts stands where you could create while talking about your experiences and life with others were nearly everywhere. Companies big and small were out with apparel to please every gender shape and size.
The drag show in Culliton Park was fierce! One side of the stage a beer and mix drink garden, and the other side general admission. No charge this year to enter the event, but so many wonderful fest goers donated. The communities response was overwhelmingly positive states vendors all up and down the streets.
With many people stating this was the best year yet for Lancaster PRIDE! We sure are looking forward to next year as the community gets stronger and the support becomes greater!
“An amazing organization bringing Queerness to an amazing place. Lancaster Pride has seriously raised the bar for future cities I visit ♥ You are amazing.” -J.S. Via FB
“Best Pride yet!!!! Oh my, you all outdid yourselves! So much to see, excellent variety of stands and food, and the music and Queens were fabulous! Perfect venue and not one little sight of anti anything! Can’t wait until next year!!!! Thank you!” -B.Y. Via FB
Jessica Yingling is our enthusiastic, efficient and creative Administrative Manager at Intersectional Life Counseling and Psychology
Lancaster Pride (Sunday June 24, 12-6): No entrance fee this year plus a beer garden. Sounds like it will be a bigger deal than ever this year! Stay safe, take care of yourself and each other, and have fun!