Many of you had the opportunity to hear some great stories from members on Feb. 14th.  One of those stories was from Britt Cox, and I know that it stirred a variety of emotions in all of us who heard it.  For me, it was truly eye-opening and helped me to realize how little I truly know about the reconciling movement.  How could it be possible that such a dynamic, vibrant person such as Britt could be rejected as a candidate for seminary?

Even if you are not active in GLBT issues, any sort of discrimination strikes at the heart of a core belief at Trinity that each person is welcomed and affirmed inclusive of Race, Nationality, Age, Gender, Gender Identity, Marital Status, Sexual Orientation, Physical Ability, Mental Ability, Economic Class, or Educational Class.

Your stories about why you believe in the reconciling movement are of great importance.  Please come out and support change by sharing your stories and hearing those of friends and neighbors.

From Britt:

What the gathering will be like:
April 17th from 9:00 am- 3:00 pm.  The gathering will be an incredible opportunity for you to share your story of why you are a part of a reconciling community as well as to hear from other reconciling Methodists who span the southwest Texas region. You will also be hearing from those working at the conference and national level with reconciling efforts. We will be updating you on the current campaign and informing you how your personal story can help move our 11 million member Methodist church towards greater inclusiveness, creating change one person at a time through small groups and gatherings.

What will be asked of us after the gathering?

The afternoon portion of the gathering will be joining with your fellow gathering attendees from your congregation to plan a mini gathering. Those attending your mini gathering will be people from your congregation. You will provide them the same opportunity to share their story and inform them about the reconciling movement. These small gatherings that you will be hosting will have around 12 people and can be held in a home, a coffee shop, church, community center, etc. You will also be provided with a conference team leader to help you plan, prepare and support you in hosting your gathering.

What now?
Email me at stories@trinitychurchofaustin.org with the answers to following things to help me know your level of interest:

1. If you are interested in attending the April 17th gathering from 9:00 am- 3:00 pm as well as being a host for a small gathering TBA.AND/OR
2. If you are interested in being a small gathering attendee.
3. If you are thankful for the further information that was sent but are not able or interested in the April 17th gathering or being a mini gathering attendee.

Please feel free to email me any questions or thoughts along with your response. Thank you again and I look forward to getting to know you along this journey.

Peace,
Britt Cox