SDA Kinship - CONNECTION - July 2012

connection ▼ connection Vol. Inc. International, 6–July No. 36 2012 Kinship of Newsletter Seventh-day Adventist T Th he e Newsletter of Seventh-day Adventist Kinship International, Inc. Vol. 36 No. 6–July 2012 “ “ “M M Ma a an n ny y y L L LG G GB B BT T TQ Q Q f f fo o ol l lk k ks s s m myself l l li i ik k ke e e my ys se el lf f g g gr r re e ew w w u u up p p i i in n n m ments r r re e el l li i ig g gi i io o ou u us s s e e en n nv v vi i ir r ro o on n nme e n nt ts s t t th h ha a at t t w w we e er r re e e h h ha a ar r rmf fu ul l. . m mful. m m was S S Se e ee e ei i in n ng g g t t th h hi i is s s f f fi i il l lm w wa as s a a a h h he e ea a al l li i in n ng g g e e ex x xp p pe e er r ri i ie e en n nc c ce e e m me. f f fo o or r r me e . . m multaneously I I It t t s s si i imu u l lt ta an ne eo ou us sl ly y m me with c c co o on n nn n ne e ec c ct t te e ed d d me e w wi it th h p p pa a ai i in n nf f fu u ul l l e e ex x xp p pe e er r ri i ie e en n nc c ce e es s s m my past, o o of f f my y p pa as st t, , w w wh h hi i il l le e e b b br r ri i in n ng g gi i in n ng g g a a a s s se e en n ns s se e e o o of f f h h ho o op p pe e e a a an n nd d d r r re e ed d de e emp pt ti io on n n. . . m mptio I I I k k kn n no o ow w w a a a n n nu u umb be er r o o of f f p p pe e eo o op p pl l le e e m mber w w wh h ho o o w w wo o ou u ul l ld d d b b be e e m milarly m mpacted. s s si i imi il la ar rl ly y i i imp pa ac ct te ed d. . m m I I I a a am a a al l lr r re e ea a ad d dy y y a a ad d dv v vo o oc c ca a at t ti i in n ng g g t t th h ha a at t t t t th h he e ey y y s s se e ee e e i i it t t t t th h he e e f f fi i ir r rs s st t t c c ch h ha a an n nc c ce e e t t th h he e ey y y g g ge e et t t. . .” ” ” — —EM —E EM M P P P 6 6 6 C C Ca a an n nd d di i id d da a at t te e es s s B B Bo o oa a ar r rd d d o o of f f D D Di i ir r re e ec c ct t to o or r rs s s m mpm meeting p p p 1 1 11 1 1 K K Ka a amp pme ee et ti in ng g S S Sp p pe e ea a ak k ke e er r rs s s

c o n n e c t i o n KINSHIP BOARD OTHER COORDINATORS President: Yolanda Elliott Transgender/Intersex: Christian Bryan, Vice President: Naveen Jonathan [email protected] / [email protected] Secretary: Ruben López Older Adults: Ren Reynolds, Treasurer: Brian Durham [email protected] Director of Church Relations: Terry Rice IMRU? (Young Adults Under 30): Director of Communications: Jacquie Hegarty Ronoldo Appleton (USA, world), [email protected] Director of Diversity: Marj Morgan Itamar Ahsman (EU), [email protected] Director of Women’s Interests: Karen Wetherell Webmaster: Linda Wright, Director of Youth Interests: Ronoldo Appleton [email protected] Directors-at-Large: Ruud Kieboom (Europe), Sharlett Reinke (Family and Friends), Keisha McKenzie CHAPLAIN Connection Editor: Catherine Taylor Marcos Apolonio, [email protected] Kampmeeting Coordinator: Marcos Apolonio WHO WE ARE... Membership Services: Member Services Team Seventh-day Adventist Kinship International, Inc. is a non- Office Services: Fred Casey profit support organization. We minister to the spiritual, COMMITTEE CHAIRS emotional, social, and physical well-being of current and Advisory Council: Terry Rice former Seventh-day Adventists who are lesbian, gay, Communications Committee: Jacquie Hegarty bisexual, transgender, and intersex individuals and their Executive Committee: Yolanda Elliott families and friends. Kinship facilitates and promotes the Finance Committee: Sherri Babcock understanding and affirmation of LGBTI Adventists among Governance Committee: Ruben López themselves and within the Seventh-day Adventist community Int’l Growth and Development Committee: Floyd Pönitz through education, advocacy, and reconciliation. Kinship is a Nominating Committee: Linda Wright global organization which supports the advance of human rights for all people worldwide. REGIONAL COORDINATORS‚ USA Founded in 1976 the organization was incorporated in Region 1 (ME, NH, VT, MA, RI, CT, NY, PA, NJ): David Thaxton, 1981 and is recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization Catherine Taylor, [email protected] in the United States. Kinship has a board made up of thirteen Region 2 (MD, VA, WV, NC, DE, DC): Yolanda Elliott, officers. There are also regional and population coordinators [email protected] in specific areas. The current list of members and friends Region 3 (TN, AL, MS, GA, SC, FL): includes approximately 1,550 people in more than forty-three [email protected] countries. Region 4 (MN, IA, MO, WI, MI, IL, IN, OH, KY): Claire Sommers, Seventh-day Adventist Kinship believes the Bible does [email protected] not condemn or even mention homosexuality as a sexual Region 5 (AR, KS, LA, OK, TX): Floyd Pönitz, orientation. Ellen G. White does not parallel any of the Bible [email protected] texts that are used to condemn homosexuals. Most of the Region 6 (ND, SD, NE, WY, UT, CO, NM): Brett Toay, anguish imposed upon God’s children who grow up as [email protected] LGBTI has its roots in the misunderstanding of what the Region 7 (AK, WA, OR, ID, MT): Stephanie Spencer, Bible says. [email protected] Region 8 (NV, HI, CA zip 93600+): Obed Vazquez-Ortiz, SUPPORT KINSHIP [email protected] Seventh-day Adventist Kinship operates primarily on Region 9 (AZ, CA zip 93599-): Ruben López contributions from its members and friends. Help us reach [email protected] out to more LGBTI Adventists by making a tax-deductible donation to Seventh-day Adventist Kinship International. AFFILIATED INTERNATIONAL REGION COORDINATORS Please send your check or money order to the address Australia & New Zealand: below or donate securely online at sdakinship.org. (You can [email protected] also donate using your Visa or MasterCard by contacting Brazil: Itamar Matos de Souza, [email protected]. You will be phoned so that you [email protected] can give your credit card information in a safe manner.) Canada: Jerry McKay, [email protected] Central & South America: [email protected] Europe/UK & Eire: Ruud Kieboom, [email protected] Asia: Jonathan, PO Box 69, Tillamook, OR 97141, USA [email protected] or visit Kinship’s website at: www.sdakinship.org. 2

c o n n e c t i o n s Kinship News s Kinship News s From Forum at Newbold College the Editor – Same Sex Marriage Things are cooking! This American phrase is a way of saying there is a lot going on and most of it is exciting! Normally I worry that the July issue is going to be filled with administrative trivia and necessary business and that you all will use it for bedtime reading to lull yourself to sleep. Then I got Ruud’s article about the meeting of churches in The Netherlands, Da- neen’s description of the screenings of Seventh- I just arrived home after an exhausting Gay Adventists, Mike’s report of a cyberforum 1,000-mile round trip. It was unbearably discussion at Newbold College on same sex mar- busy on the trains (long holiday weekend) riage, Dave’s news about a meeting of Adventist and in central London (with the Queen’s college gay-straight alliances, the list Marcos sent Jubilee celebrations in full swing). By con- of some speakers who will join us at Kampmeet- trast the peace of Newbold College was ing this month, and the bios of the people who exquisitely beautiful and most welcome. I are running for Kinship offices. Wow. And this was glad I decided to go in person instead of does not even include the pictures you will see of being video-linked. I think it gave great the Kinship booth at Dutch Open Day Campmeet- credibility as well as the opportunity to look ing, notes about the upcoming European Kinship into the eyes of my fellow presenters. Meeting, the Book and Beach discussion week- I felt the evening mostly went well and I end, and Vermont mini-Kampmeeting peeking was very pleased with the way in which it over the calendar’s horizon. Oh, and I haven’t was conducted, even though it was far too even mentioned the gay pride parades. We’ll try short. The pastor speaking alongside me to share some photos of U.S. Region 2 and their made what I considered to be some errone- float. Ah, yes, Kinship Australia is planning their ous points. One of the facilitators told me Kampmeeting; but they are so busy I have a dif- afterwards that he wanted to take some of ficult time getting them to write. Rena in Kenya is them up with him, but we simply did not working on Kampmeeting Africa. Ita and his team have time; and neither did I have opportu- in Brazil are participating in Pride and other nity to respond. That’s how it is with these events. Kinship’s other Brazilian Ita is working to types of forums. I think some of his flawed build connection between younger Kinship mem- points will be quite obvious to viewers. My bers in Europe. Those of us who felt so isolated hosts were more than gracious; and I sus- as we came out or at different spots on our jour- pect a great deal of both spoken and un- ney, are delighted that the movement continues spoken empathy for our cause, so I was to build as we work to replace loneliness with greatly encouraged. One of the presenters community, denigration with support, expulsion wants to talk at length with me at some with safety and inclusion, despair with hope. stage when it can be arranged. Wherever you live, whoever you speak to, in Mike Lewis s s whatever ways you share your increasingly honest and whole life, you are part of this. Keep in touch with us. Tell us your story. Use the in- ternet. Ask for help. Offer help. But most of all, Mountains cannot be surmounted take good care of yourself, for you are infinitely except by winding paths. valuable. —Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe Catherine 3

c o n n e c t i o n By Daneen Akers dance a standing ovation. The conversation I t's been a whirlwind of activity as the movie was about to start, and it was one of I afterwards went on for an hour until the next those transforming community events that you Seventh-Gay Adventists film finally premiered. Thank you from the bot- Many people commented about the theater tom of my heart for those of you who came to can tell will really start sincere conversations. the premiere in Miami Beach and helped make feeling like a sacred space, which is an extra that event so successful (especially those who beautiful reflection from an Adventist because drove long distances!). The Saturday night be- movies and theaters were taboo for Adventists fore the premiere in Miami Beach, I walked for for most of the denomination’s history. several hours, taking in the tropical scene and All in all, it’s been an encouraging debut. It trying to quell my rising panic. I’d checked out was affirming to know that two of the main au- the theater where our premiere was going to diences we envisioned for this film—the LGBT happen, and it was huge! I suddenly was fearful community and the moderate religious one open that only a handful of people would come, and to conversation—both responded well and on this film that we’ve worked so hard to craft the same day and in places as different as would just disappear. But I took a deep breath Miami Beach and Lincoln! And since then we’ve and reminded myself that at some point, I can had two more at-capacity screenings in Van- only do so much. It was time to release control couver, B.C., and Washington, D.C. Again and and let the audience take over. Of course my again, even though my nerves get the better of fears were for naught. It was a wonderful me prior to a screening, the actual screening is screening—a great crowd came, engaged beyond my expectations. Audiences just open thoughtfully with the film, and lingered to talk up and engage with these stories, even those afterwards until the next film kicked us into the who would classify themselves as traditional foyer. People who hadn’t heard of Adventists conservatives on this topic; there’s something before talked about how much they still identi- about hearing someone’s soul and seeing their fied with the spiritual journeys of the main film spiritual journey that softens us all. And there’s subjects, and many affirmed what an important something about seeing “haystacks” on the big time in history it is to be examining this inter- screen that reminds every Adventist in the section of faith and sexuality. We also got a crowd that there’s a lot more than a set of be- great review from a local paper; and two of the liefs that makes someone Adventist. people featured in the film were in attendance, The Vancouver screening was especially which was really special for the audience. promising because it was a very mixed crowd. I At almost the exact same time, Stephen was often joke that Adventists need to see this film, in Lincoln, Nebraska, for a private screening of LGBT individuals need to see this film, and any- the film there. That was a packed theater with one who gets the deep role of spiritual identity more than 200 Adventists, including many facul- needs to see this film; but sometimes those are ty, staff, and pastors from the local Adventist very different crowds, and framing the film for college and church in Lincoln. A couple in the all of them in the same room has taken prac- film who have deep ties to the Lincoln area tice! The most powerful feedback for me that a came for the screening. All reports said that it woman (who is not LGBT) shared during the was a tremendous screening with incredible post-screening discussion was that “This film energy, and the entire audience gave the film made me feel more human. I am so glad that I and the couple from the film who were in atten- came.” It’s that sort of connection, despite our 4

c o n n e c t i o n seeming differences, that we hope the film con- made this film happen, and it’s the community tinues to promote. that is continuing to make these screenings We’re gearing up for many more screenings possible. Here are a few comments from our this summer and fall. Our vision is to continue Facebook wall that warmed our hearts: to go slowly with this release so we can contin- “Was lucky enough to attend the screening in ue to have quality conversations. A film like this Lincoln today and was blessed beyond belief. in an incredible emotional journey for the audi- Thank you for creating this work of art and I ence, and the experience is one that allows a truly pray that everyone sees this movie and space to open up afterwards for conversations feels all of the love that is pouring out if it.” that wouldn’t have been previously possible. —Taryn Moore Rouse These are transforming spaces—spaces where you can feel the palpable energy as people en- “Wonderful screening tonight—thank you so gage on an entirely new level. In many ways, much for telling these powerful stories in such a these post-screening conversations are why we generous way. This is a film destined to make a made this film in the first place; and we want to difference.” —Ray Tetz continue to have them in a thoughtful way in “Many LGBTQ folks like myself grew up in re- communities where there are willing audiences. ligious environments that were harmful. Seeing Of course the film will be on DVD before too this film was a healing experience for me. It long, but we’re still planning screenings at fes- simultaneously connected me with painful expe- tivals and other community spaces for the next riences of my past, while bringing a sense of several months. And we’re relishing this time to hope and redemption. I know a number of peo- see the film connect with real audiences in pow- ple who would be similarly impacted. I am al- erful ways. ready advocating that they see it the first We’ve just added a new 'Screenings' page on chance they get.” —Eric Mason our website where you can see upcoming dates “It was a pleasure seeing your work last and locations (just added Orlando, Portland, week. As an openly gay man who grew up in the Leesburg, Nashville, and New York, with more Seventh-day Adventist church, I deeply appre- to come soon!). Please contact me (http://www. ciate this documentary, the stories shared in it, sgamovie.com/contact-us/) if and the significance of this you'd like to help coordi- film for the community. I have nate a screening in your already felt the effects of this area. And all of this re- film through discussions with quires a great deal of en- my friends and family ergy and resources. If members. It is pushing people you’d like to contribute to to think from other angles and help make screenings and challenge some of their discussions happen, please concepts of what it means to consider a generous tax- be gay within the church and deductible contribution SDA community. Please keep (http://www.sgamovie.com/ the conversation going!” — donate/). I know I didn’t Timothy Elliott realize three plus years ago Those are just a few of the that making a film was only comments. If you've seen the half of the job. But, these film, please drop us a note days, especially for indie (http://www.sgamovie.com/cont films like this one with a act-us/) or comment on our unique voice and audience, Facebook page (https://www. making the film is the first facebook.com/sgamovie). Hope half of the job; screening it is the next. It’s the commu- to see you at a screening soon! s s nity coming together that 5

c o n n e c t i o n Elections The Kinship Board of Directors and the Nominating Committee are pleased to present the membership with this slate of candidates for the 2012 Board of Directors. In compliance with the Bylaws, these candidates meet the Bylaws’ criteria for the positions as des- cribed therein. This year’s election will be held electronically, and we are looking forward to having all Kinship members participate in this important process! Director of Youth Interests – Ronoldo Appleton Position Statement: Bio: I was born into Adventism in Ja- My primary focus is to advocate for all maica and grew up doing very Adventist our young members throughout all levels things, such as abstaining from a very of the organization and encourage youth long list of people, foods, places, and -engaging programs and resources that activities, while participating and leading cater to the unique needs of our youth. in Pathfinders, children’s ministry, AY As such, I will mentor our current and [Adventist Youth], and choir, just to future young leaders in our growing re- name a few. While pursuing undergradu- gions, especially Europe, Australia, and ate studies in music at the College of Brazil, and provide counsel to the Board Wooster in Ohio, I embraced my gay identity, began of Directors in ways that will best benefit coming out, and became very involved with the gay/ you, our young membership. It is also straight alliance on campus. After graduation I became my strong desire to continue finding actively involved with SDA Kinship, although I had ways in which LGBTIQ students on Ad- joined years earlier. I have served as the Director of ventist campuses can be protected and Youth Interests for the past two years. Living and work- to help foster solid internal networks to ing in Baltimore now, I work amongst cancer kids at support them. Johns Hopkins Hospital; and I enjoy spending time with Interests: my Kinship family at events in the vibrant Region 2. Music and opera, movies, the beach, traveling, fine and street dining and wining, other cultures, spending time with my wonderful niece and nephew, and attending Kinship get-togethers. Director of Communications – Ashish David Position Statement: Bio: I was one of the charter members Working in the field of public relations, of IMRU? (then known as Adventist Gay I’ve gained a better understanding of the Youth) in the late 1990s and have been different ways for groups to communi- involved with Kinship for a number of cate their message and gain better visi- years since then. A native of the Wash- bility. This year I participated in my first ington, D.C. metropolitan area, I re- Pride parade on behalf of Kinship and ceived my BA in Communications/Jour- was excited by the members in the nalism from Richmond: The American crowd who acknowledged us with cheers. International University in London. Cur- I would like to build on the foundation rently I work at a public relations / production company that others have built up over the years in Washington, D.C. and aspire to further my education and hopefully take things to the next in film and video production, as well as religious level with a multimedia approach via studies. print, video, and online. Working with the other members, I’d like to see more outreach to our Adventist higher educa- tion institutions and hospitals. 6

c o n n e c t i o n Interests: A wide variety of interests, including, but not limited to: music, film, travel, games (both field and board varieties), learning about different cultures, and enjoying a healthful lifestyle. Treasurer – Brian Durham Position Statement: Bio: I am a fourth-generation Adventist Kinship has always been a second family who attended Adventist schools all the to me. It has given to me in so many way through college. I am currently ways over my 15 years as a member. I working on a doctorate in education. I feel called that it is time for me to give am actively involved in Region 2 and back to Kinship. I believe in the focus of have participated in several Kampmeet- Kinship and know that, as an organiza- ings and mini-Kampmeetings. Profes- tion, we are actively supporting our sionally, I work as an Application Train- members. Kinship members are welcome ing Coordinator for George Washington to contact me directly with any questions University, where I train individuals on how to use the at [email protected]. accounting and payroll system for the university. Interests: Travel, sports, entertaining, my daugh- ter Caitlynne, friends, and family. Secretary – Ruben López Position Statement: Bio: I became involved with Kinship in Since being involved with Kinship for the 2007 when I became IMRU? Coordinator past few years, I always wonder how I and was voted into the position by the can do more to help my fellow members. members. Since then, I’ve been advo- I started working with our younger cating for the younger Kinship members members because I was a younger during board meetings, as well as mak- member. As that is no longer the case, I ing sure they have a safe and comforta- feel that my talents could be put to use ble place in Kinship. Born and raised in as secretary. I’m detail-oriented, organ- southern California, I graduated with a ized, and tend to think one step ahead to BA in psychology. I’ve been involved with student gov- make sure things are moving smoothly. I ernment at the community college level, as well as hope that these skills will help Kinship serving on a committee dedicated to setting up learning continue to grow. communities and other services for the community Interests: college. Knitting, crocheting, textiles, reading, music, movies, collecting records, mu- seums, and spending time with friends s A separate email will be sent to Kinship members with and family. s instructions for electronic voting. The deadline to vote is Thursday, July 19, and election results will be an- nounced at Kampmeeting on Friday, July 20, and will Do your duty be posted in the Members Area of the Kinship website shortly thereafter. to the best of your ability, without worrying about the This year’s slate of officers includes Secretary, Treasur- results, er, Director of Communications, and Director of Youth remaining calm Interests. The candidates and their platforms are post- ed in the Members Area of the Kinship website. s in both success and failure. s —Bhogavad Gita, 2.48 7

c o n n e c t i o n s Kinship News s Kinship News s Kinship News s Kinship News s Kinship News s Lead Us Beyond Acceptance! Conference European Forum of LGBT Christian Groups By Ruud Kieboom right and need in our churches members into congregational On May 17, 2011, seventeen and in our communities. The functions and offices. Some Dutch churches, including the goal of this conference was to allow gays and lesbians (usual- Seventh-day Adventist Church, bring an understanding that ly because they don’t know signed a Declaration against lesbian, gay, bisexual, and what to do with them). Some Homophobic Violence on the transgendered people have neglect or expel known LGBTI International Day against Ho- their own calling and special members, including those who mophobia (www.idahonederland.nl). place in the proclamation of have shared their spiritual tal- Worldwide, this was a unique the faith, hope, and love of the ents and gifts for years. There event. Since that time, these kingdom of God. We are chil- was a consensus that local seventeen churches have gone dren of God and followers of congregations have their own into a process of evaluating Jesus Christ, no matter what cultural response to this issue, their own responsibility for the any institutional body or indi- despite what the denomina- spiritual safety of LGBTI mem- vidual people might want to tional administration may sug- bers in their congregations. state about our sexual orienta- gest or demand. This May, during a follow-up tion. To quote Galatians 3:26- What is to be done? Several meeting, representatives of 29 (NIV): options were mentioned. It is several churches brought an In Christ Jesus you are all children important that churches be- LGBTI member to discuss this of God through faith, for all of you come aware of the pain and issue. Pastor Tom de Bruin and who were baptized into Christ agony LGBTI people sometimes I participated in the forum dis- experience. There was a con- cussion: Tom spoke from his have clothed yourselves with sensus that this issue be ad- perspective as a pastor and I Christ. There is neither Jew nor dressed in a cautious way to from my experience as a gay Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor avoid creating a prejudice that Seventh-day Adventist. Tom de is there male and female, for you will shut down conversation for Bruin is a pastor in The Nether- are all one in Christ Jesus. If you another decade. LGBTI church lands and has at least one gay belong to Christ, then you are membership should also be church member. He was in- Abraham’s seed, and heirs addressed from the pulpit (not vited to “Building Safe Places,” according to the promise. advertised, but just men- a meeting with European Sev- We would like to add “neither tioned) so we know we don’t enth-day Adventist pastors and gay nor straight…” If we are all need to feel alone or hide our educators in Odenwald near one in Jesus Christ, there is no orientation. Church leaders and Frankfurt, Germany, in April of need for special efforts at ac- pastors must be willing to this year. The discussions ceptance because God already study the subject. This is not a made him aware of the urgen- called us His/Her child before matter, in my opinion, of just cy to make the church a safe we were born. God made us to accepting homosexuality, but a place for LGBTI members and relate to and love each other. matter of interpretation of the to fight against homophobia As many of us in Kinship Bible verses in a wider range. and exclusion of LGBTI mem- have experienced in the Ad- It will be a difficult process, be- bers from the church. ventist church, there was a cause it deals with credibility of The conference began dis- broad range of church atti- what the churches have pro cussions with the acknowledge- tudes. Some of them fully in- claimed in the past. ment that acceptance is a basic corporate gay and lesbian At the conference I realized 8

c o n n e c t i o n s Kinship News s Kinship News s Kinship News s Kinship News s Kinship News s what a blessing it is that we well. During the preview of language, and the glow in our have quite a number of Ad- Seventh-Gay Adventists at the eyes—just as it does with het- ventist pastors in The Nether- “Building Safe Places” meeting, erosexuals. The pastor said his lands who understand and urge a pastor’s attitude was heart was warmed to see the a change in our church’s atti- changed. As he watched the love of God reflected in the tude against LGBTI people. I story of two young men falling love of two men for each other. s see changes in other European in love, he saw how love s Adventist congregations as changes our face, our body Adventist Colleges and Gay-Straight Alliances By Dave Ferguson pening on various campuses. I was amazed at the progress I want to share with you one of Nothing, but nothing, could these students are making on the most exciting days I have have prepared me for the en- each campus, the creative ways spent in a committee meeting ergy and passion and the orga- they are finding to make their in recent memory. While I of- nizational skills I found at this voices heard, and the support ten get to be part of commit- meeting. they are getting from faculty and tees, and try as chairperson to The Friday working agenda students, even when administra- be productive and stay on included 15 items, and focused tors work to follow the present target, this was one of those on addressing them all in the 9 denominational line. meetings that just surpassed AM to 5 PM meeting. When I Policies were developed on all possible expectations. arrived a little after 10 AM they how to deal with conflict reso- Special thanks to the Kinship were completing the wording lution, bullying, demeaning Board for providing both emo- on the mission statement for behaviors toward students and tional and financial support to the group! Some of you have faculty, domestic safety, van- the event and to the Advisory been through the process and dalism, and harassment. for inspiring A.J. at our last know what an accomplishment Over the next year, this group meeting to move forward with that was! A vision statement will be working to become a this project, which will change was developed, followed by 501(c)(3) non-profit Adventist campuses forever! reports from each of the four organization. This status will I flew to Northern California Adventist campuses repre- allow them to provide scholar- and drove to Pacific Union Col- sented. The reports described ships to students involved with lege to participate in The Sum- current state of their campus, the GSA. A goal was set to have mit. This was the first time their gay-straight alliance ac- a scholarship of $10,000 leaders of gay-straight alli- tivities, relationship to adminis- available to students on each ances at Adventist colleges and tration, long- and short-term campus that has or is actively universities had ever met face- goals, faculty support, student developing a GSA. This will to-face. This year, for the first handbook policies, etc. The obviously encourage GSAs to time, GSAs on several cam- current chairman of the group start and students to step for- puses actually elected officers has worked tirelessly on the ward to provide leadership. The for the coming year before the Andrews campus. The upcom- scholarship fund will also make a end of the current school year. ing school year will see a statement to Adventist colleges A.J. also created a closed change to the Student Hand- and universities. group on Facebook, which al- book to include positive sup- Gay-straight alliances plan to lowed these leaders to commu- port for sexual orientation. participate in one mission trip nicate with each other and be- each year, providing an oppor- gin to realize what was hap- 9

c o n n e c t i o n s s Kinship News s s K Ki in ns sh hi ip p a at t tunity for LGBT students to meet those from other cam- S Se ea at tt tl le e G Ga ay y puses and show the denomina- P Pr ri id de e 2 20 01 12 2 tion the commitment of these students to the church. Materi- als will be developed that can be used by each group in deal- ing with spiritual issues, health, suicide, bullying, com- ing out, and how to be an ally. These materials will be created and shared online with space for each GSA to create their own identity. An LGBT Adventist alumni association will be created, al- lowing members to support the scholarships, GSAs, mission trips, etc. PUC is planning to have a gay alumni group meet- ing at the next annual alumni weekend and has created a stole that will be presented to students who have provided support to the local GSA while on campus. Screenings of Seventh-Gay Adventists will be coordinated on campuses during the com- ing year. When the film is re- leased on DVD the group plans to show it in individual classes for discussion. These student leaders are amazing! As Daneen Akers commented to me, “The church’s status quo doesn’t stand a chance!” s s 10

c o n n e c t i o n We wanted to let you know about a few of the speakers who will be at Kampmeeting this month. Steven Eyer and Daneen Akers Ø with the Seventh-Gay Adventists documentary. × Twid Widmer is a trans woman from the Bay Area in California. This past spring she received a Masters of Fine Arts in Theatre Pedagogy from Virginia Commonwealth University. Her MFA “Performing Transition: Depicting the Transgender Experience” is a combination of performance studies and gender studies and examines depictions of transgender individuals. She also holds a BA in English Literature from Pacific Union College. She plans on continuing her education by applying to PhD programs for the fall of 2013. She likes to imagine that in the future she will sit by a roaring fireplace writing a play while curled up next to numerous cats and a loving partner. 11

c o n n e c t i o n J. David Newman has been the senior pastor at New Hope Adventist Church in Fulton, Maryland, for the last ten years. He retired on June 30 after 43 years of ministry. He is a past editor of Ministry magazine (published for ministers by the Ministerial Association of the General Conference) and is currently the editor of Adventist Today. In his long career he has been a conference departmental director and administrator, a college professor, and an adjunct professor at the Theological Seminary at Andrews University. In addition to pastoring at New Hope he has pastored in Michigan, Scotland, and Ohio. His passion is to see Jesus the cen- ter of everyone’s life and especially the center of the Adventist denomination. Samuel C. Pang Medical Director at the Reproductive Science Center of New England (RSCNE), is subspecialty board certified in Reproductive Endocrinology. He graduated from the University of British Columbia with a BSc (Biochemistry) and M.D., after which he completed a rotating internship and residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Toronto. Prior to joining RSCNE in 1993, he trained in Reproductive Endocrinology at the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA). Under Dr. Pang’s leadership, RSCNE is currently one of the largest in vitro fertilization (IVF) centers in the U.S., noted for being among the most successful with a very low incidence of multiple gestations compared to other IVF centers in the country. Dr. Pang has been director of the Third Party Assisted Reproduction program at RSCNE since 1997, serving couples who utilize IVF with donor eggs and/or a gestational surrogate to have children. He has helped male couples have children with donor eggs and gestational surrogacy since 1998, and almost every male couple who has done this at RSCNE has been successful. Dr. Pang and his husband have two sons through this process. Dr. Pang has also been a member of SDA Kinship since 1983. Peterson Toscano is no stranger to SDA Kinship; he presented his hilarious and moving play, “Doin’ Time in the Homo Halfway House” at Kampmeeting 2006. A playwright, actor, activist, comic, and Bible scholar, Peterson presents his original pro- LGBTQ performances at universities, churches, and conferences throughout North America and Europe. Known for his seamless character transformations, and his original yet grounded treatment of scripture, Peterson has pleasantly shocked Bible scholars and LGBTQ people of faith with his presentation about gender-variant Bible characters. He recently premiered the play, “Jesus Had Two Daddies,” a ridiculously serious look at scripture and is writing a book about gender transgressors in the Bible. He lives in Central Pennsylvania with his partner, Glen Retief, author of The Jack Bank, A Memoir of a South African Childhood. Learn more at http://www.petersontoscano.com. Jan Daffern is the pastor of an open and affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ (http://www.erucc.org/). This congrega- tion welcomes all, respecting a rich heritage as one of Frederick, Maryland’s oldest downtown churches, and serving at present as a leader in social action and service to the community. Rev. Daffern received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Loma Linda University, and her Masters of Divinity is from Andrews 12

c o n n e c t i o n University Theological Seminary. She began her work in pastoral ministry in 1980 and has been in practice as a pastoral counselor since 1990. She also has a Masters of Social Work from the University of Maryland School of Social Work and holds a clinical social work license. Andrew Marin is the president and founder of The Marin Foundation (http://www.themar infoundation.org/about-us/staff/), a public charity working to build bridges between the LGBT community and conservatives through biblical and social education, scientific research, and diverse community gatherings. He has a BA in Applied Psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and an MA in Urban Studies with concentrations in Social Change and Theology from Eastern University. Andrew is the author of the award-winning book Love Is an Orientation (2009), and its interactive six-session DVD curricu- lum (2011). Since 2010 he has been asked by the United Nations to advise their various agencies on issues of faith, sexuality, and cultural and theo- logical aspects of reconciliation. Andrew has recently spoken before world leaders at the United Nations International Headquarters in both Geneva, Switzerland, and New York City, as well as to members of the U.S. Senate on Capitol Hill. His speech Homophobia and Bridging from within the Evan- gelical Church, given on Capitol Hill the night before the Inauguration of President Barack Obama in 2009, is archived in the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, D.C. Andrew has been featured on the BBC World News, NPR, CBS, ABC, Salon.com, GLAAD, 700 Club, Dallas Morning News, Chris- tian Post, The Daily Beast, and is a regular guest on American’s most lis- tened-to Christian radio program, The Frank Pastore Show, among others. He lives in the LGBT Boystown neighborhood of Chicago with his wife Brenda, and blogs on cultural issues, faith, and sexuality at s http://www.loveisanorientation.com. s Support Seventh-Gay Adventists! By Brian Durham, Treasurer As many of you know, Kinship has quite a few projects on which we are currently working. I would like to highlight two of them that have some immediate needs. First is the Kampmeeting Scholarship Fund. Each year Kinship sets aside a number of scholarships to assist members with the cost of attending Kampmeeting. Kampmeeting is one of our most important outreaches that provides many new members with their first connection to other LGBTIQ Adventists. This year we have already given out the funds that have been set aside to several worthy candidates. There are others that have applied, so we need your help to fund more scholarships. Any amount can be a help! Generosity is The other project that I would like to highlight is the Seventh-Gay giving more than you can, Adventist documentary (http://www.sgamovie.com/). As many of you know, the movie is complete; but they still need help and pride is through the screening and outreach process. This part of the process is taking less than you need. very time-consuming. Again, any donation will be appreciated —Kahlil Gabran (http://www.sgamovie.com/donate/). s Thanks so much, Brian s 13

c o n n e c t i o n Dear Andrew, I have quietly listened to your mean we do not mourn or cry; but, disfellowshipped, cast out, and issues, concerns, and response to at the end of the day, respect “purged” from the church while Adventist pastoral bigotry. I delib- should remain a core value. I re- they are allowed to stay on their erately delayed sharing my reflec- spect religious differences even complicated path from inside its tions for three reasons. First, your when that means the door is locked membership circles. That is not the experience made me revisit some of behind me. fault of our good Adventist my own Adventist heritage (with I see and feel rays of hope because friends. Indeed, some of my most a certain amount of posttraumatic the anti-gay church policy of cherished friends are former Ad- stress). Secondly, I did not want institutional Adventism has not ventist pastors and lay people (as to make a hasty comment. Most- stirred the vast majority of rank- am I!) Of course, our allies must ly, I am so proud of you and your and-file Adventists in North understand that we have the right response to bigotry that I believe America, Europe, and the British to stay out of harm's way by you did not need my help. You Commonwealth. Our power contin- choosing to avoid the institutional have always had my passionate ues to dwell in telling our stories, church in many areas, even as our prayers. love, friendship, and Christian joy being as honest as we can safely The bigotry issues within institu- be, and living well. Nothing is grows with one another. tional Adventism are legion (race, more damning to an anti-gay I have spent most of my life try- gender, age) and equally worri- bigot (Adventist or not) than ing to understand the limits of some with respect to 'sexual orien- seeing our lives proceed quietly compromise. Whenever possible, I tation” —a term that is still for- and without fanfare. advocate for bridge-building. I bidden to use in some Adventist I have come to understand that our have also learned that even com- clerical circles. The chilling effect moral witness, deliberate or unbid- promise can be practiced to excess. of the 1999 General Conference den, must remain proactive and There are some issues where the policy statement—'no accommo- thoughtful. We have the difficult gulf is too broad, the evil and dation' for gay people—is now option of developing ways to sepa- threat too grave, to find a place to more than a decade old and has rate institutional Adventism from dwell in compromise. I applaud become the darling phrase of its impossible politics and co-opted you for taking a stand on a Seventh-day Adventist ecclesias- global agendas that are so harm- wrenching and difficult issue. tical authority. We all saw this ful and abusive. I believe we need to When all of the heartache, tears, coming in 1999. I dearly regret do this without alienating and and rage subside, many of us that you are living that result in separating us from the many good carry the doubt of wondering 2012. Even though gay people are friends and allies who remain whether our actions were based on outside the fellowship of the within the fellowship of the Ad- hubris and/or moral defensive- institutional Adventist church, we ventist church. Many of our allies ness. It is indeed difficult to move must agree to disagree without be- are on the fringe of Adventism. I past abomination to love. The face coming disagreeable. This does not know it is unfair that we have been of Christ has been misrepresented 14

c o n n e c t i o n from countless church pulpits. We can't help but wonder whether our Savior is loving and whether our Savior loves us. I'm here, all of us are here, to tell you that you are special. c co on nn ne ec ct ti io on n▼ God loves you and all of us. God's presence is still active, even present in the most bigoted of Adventist churches. Never The Newsletter of Seventh-day Adventist doubt your value or the foundational truth that you were Kinship International, Inc. made in the image of our Creator or that God “so loved the Editor : Catherine Taylor world”—no exceptions. Circulation : Floyd Pönitz I urge you to remain connected to the safer places within European Editor : Ruud Kieboom Photography : Karen Wetherell, Pearl Adventism for gay people. Your life does not need to become Pangkey, Ivan van Putten “a cause.” Your witness and well-lived example is enough. Production : Ruud Kieboom Despite the fact that institutional Adventism does not wel- Proofing : Jacquie Hegarty, come me, I'm still welcome in many Adventist homes. I'm Floyd Pönitz, Carrol Grady still welcome in some Adventist churches; I'm still welcome at Printing Yolanda Elliott : Doolittle's PrintServe Kinship. I am welcomed by many special Adventist family The Connection is published by Seventh-day and friends. Even though institutional Adventism cast me Adventist Kinship International, Inc. PO Box 69, aside when I was 31 years old, I have been able to find Tillamook, OR 97141 USA. Submissions are spiritual fellowship and weekly renewal with other Christian welcome and may be directed to the editor at groups. Just as the Holy Spirit can be found in an Adventist [email protected] or mailed to the principal office address above. Include your service, that same Spirit is also found in other denomina- name as you want it published along with your tions. I have grown in my ability to recognize that there is no address and telephone number(s). monopoly on the salvation brought by Jesus to all of us. If an item is to be acknowledged or returned, please include a self-addressed stamped Maintaining a gentle spirit in the midst of frustration, suf- envelope. Some Connection contributors have fering, and bigotry is one of our most difficult struggles. chosen to remain anonymous or use pseudo- Jesus (and the life of Moses) remind us that meekness is nyms. power. “Blessed are the meek.” Those that abuse power are The Connection reserves the right to edit manu- scripts for length, syntax, grammar, and clarity. using the tactics of the evil ones. I ask you to keep in touch The mention or appearance of any names, with the quiet, gentle, aesthetic, artistic parts of your worthy organizations, or photographs in this publication soul. It is a lovely time of year where you live. I can feel the is not meant to imply a fact or statement about breeze of the lake in my face and I can smell the mid-sum- sexual orientation or activity. Subscription requests or address changes may mer forest in my nose. Our world is an imperfect place. That be sent to Subscriptions, PO Box 69, Tillamook, is why Jesus is coming again. However, even now, our Creator OR 97141 USA or emailed to continues to cradle our hearts. God will provide you love, [email protected]. solace, and joy. Without such providential refuge, we could Members may also update their contact infor- mation online. The Kinship mailing list is confi- not live. dential and used only by Kinship officers. The You are a good man. Someday, I hope we meet face-to-face; mailing list is not sold, rented, or exchanged for any purpose. and that will be a special day. After all, it's not every day one gets to meet a moral hero. © 2012 Seventh-day Adventist Kinship International, Inc. Love and hugs to you, All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in Ben Kemena (Denver, Colorado) s part without permission is prohibited. Opinions s expressed herein are not necessarily those of Seventh-day Adventist Kinship Int’l, Inc. Member of the Gay and Lesbian Press Association. 15

c o n n e c t i o n You are Invited to Book and the Fearless Faith—Believing Without Fear Beach Mini-Kampmeeting Kinship at the Ocean! European September 20-23, 2012 With our usual focus on discus- KINSHIP sions, worship, play, and great food, we've added a group dolphin Meeting watch to our Friday field trip day! This year we are expanding our August 30 - September 3 discussion options to cover not Odenwald – Germany just Christianity and Homosexual- € 273/€ 233 p.p. (single/double bedroom; full board) ity: Some Seventh-day Adventist Perspectives but A Wind in the Door, Isaiah, James, and the anti-clobber texts. Book and the Beach is focused on creating a time and place for us to talk with each other. There will also be morning worships, time to sing, optional field trips to local places of interest, outlet shopping, and comfortable chairs in which to listen and share your thoughts. Our beach house is located across the street from the ocean. Our third-floor deck looks out onto waves, sailboats, and spectacular sunrises. Our rooms are airy and comfortable. Most of them have their own bathrooms. The food is homemade with great 'reviews.' We eat together at a tile- Our special guest and lecturer is Johann Gerhardt, covered table and have our meetings in a room full of M.Div., D.Min., professor emeritus of Friedensau Ad- sunlight. For those with differing abilities and energy levels ventist University. Dr. Gerhardt is a renowned theo- we have an elevator. For those with lots of sand on their feet logian, teacher and author in European Adventism. we have outdoor showers. We have a hot tub in the back Before his retirement in 2011 he served as president yard and hear rumors that there will be a swimming pool in of Friedensau Adventist University. Register at: place then. http://sdakinship.org/nl/ekmmain/ekm2012.html. Where: Old Oregon Inlet Road, Nags Head, NC 27959 Vermont Mini-Kampmeeting Building Sanctuary Costs: $ 125 per person (includes room for 3 nights, November 8-11, 2012 3 dinners, 2 breakfasts, Sabbath lunch and Sunday brunch) Come join us in our new home at the base of Okemo $ 155 per person (as above PLUS the Dolphin Watch) Mountain! We have found a place where we can Payment due: have both beauty and costs that allow more to join On or before September 8, 2012. us. This three-day weekend focused on play and (Payment secures your reservation!) Bible study will include Friday field trips, our continued study of the Sanctuary, wondrous meals, More information: Email Catherine at [email protected] places to shop, laughter, great conversations, and a few surprises. $ 300.00 per room (plus $ 50.00 per Registration: person for three or more) covers three nights, all the http://sdakinship.org/ book-and-the-beach-mini-kampmeeting/ food, and most excursions. For more the-book-a-the-beach.html information, please feel most welcome to contact Catherine at Kampmeeting, or at [email protected]. You will be Connection able to register online in a few weeks. q × Our new meeting home 16