The LGBTQ Ministry
NEW: Check out the LGBTQ Ministry blog!
Marsh Chapel's LGBTQ Ministry is a community where lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning students--and their allies--can safely explore spirituality without fear of judgment or discrimination. We are a group of people who view spirituality and sexuality as something to discover and embrace, not ignore or oppress.
The "Q" in LGBTQ stands for questioning--you don't have to have all the answers. If you are confident in your sexual identity, great! If you are absolutely sure of your Christian/Jewish/Taoist faith, swell! We don't require any of these, however, to participate in our ministry. When we say "all people are invited," we mean it.
Meetings
Ministry meetings alternate between eating dinner at the GSU and having discussion at the Chapel. At any given meeting we might critique pop culture, analyze Scripture or watch a related movie. Something been on your mind and you don't know where to talk about it? Bring it to a discussion--you'd be amazed with the answers we can come up with when everyone is open and honest.
The LGBTQ Ministry makes a concerted effort to interact with the BU community and the LGBTQ culture at large. For example, after Proposition 8 happened, the LGBTQ Ministry had a Positive Postcard campaign for LGBTQ youth centers across the nation. Liz and Tyler, the leaders of the ministry, have done forums with the Women's Center and workshops with the RAs of BU's residencies. This fall marks the launch of the LGBTQ lecture series, where BU's own professors will talk about their own experiences and studies in regards to LGBTQ people.
Keep updated with the ministry with our calendar.
Confidentiality
It is the responsibility and expectation of all LGBTQ Ministry members to maintain confidentiality. Confidentiality is one of the most direct ways to foster a trusting community, which is both what we are and what we continually strive to be. The things that you say in our circle will stay in our circle and will only be brought up again with your permission.
Open to All
Anyone can come to the LGBTQ Ministry meetings, as long as they maintain confidentality and have an open mind. No one will be turned away. We all have something to contribute to the conversation, no matter how familiar (or not) you are with Christianity or how much you read the Bible (or don't).
Come alone, bring a friend, join us for dinner, join us for discussion. Whoever you are and wherever you are in your spiritual walk, come!
This group is co-led by Chapel Associate Liz Douglass and Marsh Associate Tyler Sit. Liz and Tyler are also available for e-mail communication and one-on-one meetings; just send a message to lmd@bu.edu (Liz) or tsit@bu.edu (Tyler)
