I have been a faith-based activist for queer inclusion for a long time. Periodically when some gains are made for inclusion, activism slows, interest lags, and some decide that queer inclusion is total and complete. This happened with marriage equality, which was a wonderful moment but not the end of the need for activism. It has also happened with similar decisions, such as when a church becomes officially Open And Affirming.

For these inclusion “wins” there is certainly a time for joyful celebration and a well-earned rest. After a sabbath of this sort, it’s time to think about what’s next.

In the South Central Conference, an overwhelming majority of SCC congregations (72%) are designated as ONA. This makes my heart and spirit sing, especially at a time like this when right-wing organizations are strategizing to disrupt Pride events and queer lives. And not just disrupt, but some of the organizations are known to be violent. Hundreds of anti-LGBTQ+ bills and policies have been introduced all across the United States. These include trans-phobic intent against our youth and young people, as well as the families who support and love them.

At our SCC Annual Meeting I held a workshop about the Conference becoming Open And Affirming. Those in attendance were interested in moving forward with this designation.

The goal of the SCC being ONA is to publicly and undeniably affirm and celebrate all families and folks — not in spite of who they are but because we are delighted in the diversity of God. It is everyone’s loss when others are marginalized, bullied, and worse.

I believe that the South Central Conference is already ONA. It’s time to stand up for who we are and declare it proudly. This will send a message to our youth and young people who are wondering if the church is on their side. This will let incoming ministers know that they can come to the SCC without having to filter their open and affirming theology or their inclusive and loving theology.

In the next year we want to talk about what it means to be ONA as a conference. We want to talk through any concerns. We also want to lift up the need that LGBTQ+ people have for organizations like ours to stand up and speak out.

Remember, though, for the SCC to become ONA doesn’t mean we will have arrived and be done with the work. It means that we have set ourselves in a position to walk and talk the teachings of Jesus — good news for those hearing bad news, standing in solidarity with those who are being pushed to the sides, freeing prisoners, and speaking truth to power. That’s what ministry is all about.

There are three ways you can help:
  1. You can join the team working on this project by clicking here and filling out the contact form.
  2. We are looking for videos from people sharing why being ONA has been life-giving and hope-building for them. And why you believe the Conference being ONA is important. Share your story with us.
  3. You can help us spread the word about this project. Talk about it at church. Share the video testimonials, as they become available, on social media. Pass around the articles and education materials we will offer as the year progresses. Organize conversations in your churches and associations.

Let’s do this important work together.

Rev. Mak Kneebone
Plymouth United Church, Spring, TX
Open and Affirming Coalition: Leadership Team and Past President