Yesterday’s news release by The Associated Press following an interview with Pope Francis is worthy of cautious celebration. Sitting down with AP News, the Pope publicly criticized laws that criminalize homosexuality around the world, stating quite clearly “being homosexual isn’t a crime.” The article goes on to say:
“Francis acknowledged that Catholic bishops in some parts of the world support laws that criminalize homosexuality or discriminate against LGBTQ people, and he himself referred to the issue in terms of ‘sin.’ But he attributed such attitudes to cultural backgrounds, and said bishops in particular need to undergo a process of change to recognize the dignity of everyone. ‘These bishops have to have a process of conversion,’ he said, adding that they should apply ‘tenderness, please, as God has for each one of us.’” Harmony celebrates and acknowledges this critical milestone in which a prominent, international Christian leader publicly, intentionally, and explicitly chose to use their influence to save Queer/2SLGBTQIA+ (Queer) lives. While the Pope unfortunately continues to clearly define homosexuality as “sin,” he simultaneously creates a clear distinction between criminal acts (civil code) and sin (scriptural interpretation). We understand that these comments by Pope Francis remain deeply problematic for members of the Queer Community, and we continue to pray for wisdom and change within the Catholic Church in order that more welcoming and affirming position statements continue to be released. However, we also note that even this seemingly simple statement is incredibly significant in its own right. For far too long, criminalization and sin have been viewed by Christians as synonymous when it comes to Queer issues. Having the leader of a major Christian denomination using their power, privilege, and influence to unequivocally condemn the criminalization of homosexuality worldwide is disarming to religious conservatives claiming to be carrying out God’s work through violence, physical harm, conversion therapy, and murder against members of the Queer Community. This statement has the ability to save lives and change hearts on a global scale. Today, we call on Community of Christ leaders to publicly, intentionally, and explicitly call for an immediate end to the criminalization of and violence toward Queer persons around the world. Holy work is often nonlinear. It requires cyclical revisions grounded in restorative justice. We recognize that our own unique institutional histories are anything but simple. Regardless, we continue to offer our support to prioritize this life-saving, holy work in order that we never miss an opportunity to offer sacred specificity: that God loves their Queer children just as they were created to be and that the Church has often made misguided decisions concerning the care of some of the Creator’s most vulnerable in the name of compliance and conformity. Let us continue to courageously appeal for the very best for one another. If we don’t - who will? As the hands and feet of Jesus - we must. Your Harmony Board of Directors
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We are thrilled to share that the USA Interim Policy authorizing Queer/2SLGBTQIA+ (Queer) participation is interim no more! In collaboration with the USA Team of Apostles, the preexisting interim policy has been reviewed and revised and has now been officially replaced by the December 22, 2022 version. While there is no change in practice, the policy now has updated language, streamlined structure and associated links, and utilizes universal same-sex marriage legalization in the USA as a simplifying factor. (As a reminder, the 2014 interim policy pre-dated the Supreme Court decision that made same-sex marriage legal in all 50 states. This has further been solidified by the Respect for Marriage Act passed in 2022.) This revision - and the intentional and collaborative resources required to make it a reality - fulfills a commitment made to USA church members in the policy’s first iteration. This commitment read, “The church in the USA will follow these interim policies for two years. At the end of this time the interim policies will be evaluated and revised as needed.” We are grateful for a new precedent in which marginalized communities impacted by church policy are included in the process of their own inclusion. Notable changes include:
As this policy is specific to a single nation (USA), cofchrist.org will not be hosting this document or information related to it. As a denominational hub of administrative and resource-related content, OurMinistryTools.org will be updated to reflect this new policy. In an effort to make this document as accessible as possible, Harmony will proudly host all Community of Christ Queer/2SLGBTQIA+ policies currently in effect on our website as a resource to you. You can expect updates to our website in the coming weeks to reflect this commitment to you. In the meantime, we have provided links to the updated policy as well as the now replaced 2014 interim policy for your information. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@harmony.lgbt. In service, Your Harmony Board of Directors To our members and supporters -
We are thrilled to introduce your 2023 Harmony Board of Directors! We had unanimous support (and one abstention) for this slate of fantastic individuals. Each brings a wealth of unique skills, experiences, and intersections to the board. We are grateful to each board member for committing to give of their time and skills to further the mission of Harmony. We also wish to extend our gratitude to Saundra Merth (outgoing VP) for her support, institutional memory, and passion for inclusion in Community of Christ. Saundra was instrumental in our successful launch of merchandise fundraising and served as GALA President in previous years. Thank you, Saundra! We will miss you, but we know you will continue to bring about positive change wherever you go! Please hold the board in your prayers as we begin onboarding new members while continuing to lead the organization. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at info@harmony.lgbt. Onward! Your Harmony Board of Directors Following Saturday’s deadly shooting at Club Q in Colorado Springs that left at least five dead and 25 injured, the members of Harmony’s Board of Directors offer their deepest condolences to the families, chosen families, and friends of all those who were targeted. In the wake of yet another deadly attack on innocent, precious members of the Queer/2SLGBTQIA+ Community, we find comfort in the teachings of Jesus Christ who modelled and taught the importance of justice, peace, and healing as a call to action - not through "thoughts and prayers" alone. The hymn When the Darkness Overwhelms Us (CCS #314) reminds us of this calling in each verse. A particularly compelling and timely line is verse 3: When in weary isolation We’ve lost our courage to care, When our captive spirits perish In the bondage of despair, Free our arms for action Reaching for another’s hand, Free our feet for marching or move to boldly make a stand. May the One who calls us to this holy work place their spirit of reassurance upon us to encourage us as their hands and feet to realize our potential as justice seekers, peace makers, and community builders. Your Harmony Board of Directors Note: Special thanks to our partners at Beyond the Walls for providing the beautiful music to many of our hymns. You can click the play button below to view/hear the full hymn recorded by the Beyond the Walls Choir. To our members and supporters -
Harmony’s Board of Directors is pleased to share the following update concerning policy update efforts in the United States. We have reached the final step in the year-long revision process (“Final Review & Approval”), and the draft policy updates are now with the First Presidency for final review. We will keep you updated once we receive word of any approvals. The USA Team of Apostles consulted with members and leaders representing diverse locations and roles across the United States. Harmony has been honored to contribute as part of this approach. On behalf of the Harmony Board of Directors, I’d like to extend my gratitude to Apostles Barbara Carter, Janné Grover, Ron Harmon, Robin Linkhart, Lachlan Mackay, Dave Nii, and Art Smith for their support and willingness to engage in this holy work within their respective fields. We look forward to collaborating in an effort to ensure the future of Community of Christ in the United States is a fully affirming one. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at info@harmony.lgbt. With excitement and anticipation, Parker Johnson (he/him) Harmony President Harmony’s Board of Directors is pleased to share the following update concerning policy revision efforts in the United States and Canada.
As a reminder, in partnership with the USA Team of Apostles and the Apostle to Canada, we are working to review, revise, and formalize the interim national conference policies for the United States and Canada with a tentative completion date of December 31, 2022. Please note the above project milestones graphic as a point of reference. We will share updates as new information becomes available. Harmony is acting as consultant to provide guidance on inclusive language and the Queer/2SLGBTQIA+ experience in Community of Christ. In the following days, Harmony will finalize its feedback to the USA Team of Apostles and Canada’s Apostle (Art Smith), and the draft policy will move into a review phase with various stakeholders. We are honored to contribute as part of this approach. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at info@harmony.lgbt. You asked - we answered!
We are excited to share a new resource that has been frequently requested by Harmony folks and church members...inclusive marriage materials! As many of you know, Harmony maintains a list of affirming officiants who - when called upon - stand ready to serve Queer / same-sex couples during one of the most important moments of their lives. Now, with the help of Harmony Volunteer Jenny Lowndes, we have several resources to help lead the conversation. Included in this new resource kit are:
Click the buttons below to view and download. As always, we'd love your feedback! We are thrilled to share our second annual Pride campaign design with you. If you recall, our 2021 theme was RESILIENT, and we received more than 160 orders from folks just like you from around the world. Our theme this year is WELCOME WITHOUT EXCEPTION. We are now taking orders for our 2022 design. Using the same vendor as last year (Bonfire), you can click the link below to select the shirt style, color, and size. This year we are also selling mugs and totes as well. Note: As we only make about $0.25 - $1.00 on each item, donations are also welcome to ensure we cover the cost of our designer. Hoping to wear your Harmony shirt at an upcoming Pride event and time is of the essence? Place your order by June 7 to receive on/around June 23. Otherwise, order when you're ready! Note: Harmony has funds available to ensure Queer / 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals who want something but don't have the funds can still place an order. I've been including the following blurb to ensure they're aware:
If you would like to purchase Pride merch but are low on funds, contact Harmony Treasurer Michele McGrath at michele@harmony.lgbt. We have funds available for this purpose, and we want you to be decked out in affirming wear. If you'd like to make a donation to ensure Queer folks and affirming congregations have what they need this Pride season, consider making a contribution to our FB Fundraiser (https://www.facebook.com/donate/572033707729468/) or on our website: www.harmony.lgbt/donate. We have had lots of requests for Pride Booth support recently...which means we are most definitely headed for Pride Month! Every year in the US and Canada, June is designated as Pride Month to commemorate the Stonewall Riots in New York City (June 1969). Learn more here. We are thrilled to share some resources we've designed and compiled to ensure your Pride presence is a success this year. We've put together sticker designs, notecards, swag, business cards, sign-up forms, best practices, recommended books, and more. Take a look at the link below and check back often to see what new resources have been added. Harmony relies on generous donations from folks just like you. Whether you are directly involved with a Pride Booth this year or not, consider making a donation to Harmony to ensure this support can continue long into the future.
On behalf of the Harmony Board of Directors, I am pleased to share that efforts are currently underway in partnership with the USA Team of Apostles and the Apostle to Canada to review, revise, and formalize the interim national conference policies for the United States and Canada. With a tentative completion date of December 31, 2022, the board is encouraged that both countries will have updated policies in place protecting the Queer/LGBTQIA2S+ community’s participation in the life of the church within the United States and Canada. Please note the following project milestones as a point of reference. We will share updates as new information becomes available. Led by the USA Team of Apostles and Canada’s Apostle (Art Smith), this process will invite input from individuals throughout these two fields in order to ensure a broad representation of perspectives. Harmony is honored to contribute as part of this approach.
On behalf of the Harmony Board of Directors, I’d like to extend my gratitude to Apostles Barbara Carter, Janné Grover, Ron Harmon, Robin Linkhart, Lachlan Mackay, Dave Nii, and Art Smith for their support and willingness to engage in this holy work within their respective fields. We look forward to collaborating in an effort to ensure the future of Community of Christ in the United States and Canada is an affirming one. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at info@harmony.lgbt. With excitement and anticipation, Parker Johnson (he/him) Harmony President |
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