by The Rev. Phillip Bass
Over the past year the Holy Spirit has stirred the hearts of many within Nativity to pay closer attention to the growing mental health needs of teens and children. As we began to discuss these needs, we also became more and more aware of the frightening statistics regarding queer youth suicidal ideation and trauma, as well as the growing number of anti-LGBTQIA+ laws being debated and passed around the country. Over time, it became clear that we had to do something.
So, we began to ask ourselves, “How do we show God’s love to everyone, especially those who have been told that they are unworthy? How do we protect those who are most vulnerable? How do we model Christ to all of God’s children?”
What first began as conversations among a few of us about the mental health needs of teens has evolved into a larger conversation of how we, as the Church, can best support queer youth and their parents. Out of these conversations and dreaming with the Holy Spirit, the idea of offering support groups for queer teens and their parents emerged. We are calling this new ministry True Colors!
Here’s what we have planned so far ~
Beginning on Wednesday, September 6, we will host weekly peer support groups for queer-identifying teens and their parents. These groups will be led by volunteers from Nativity and the community. We will meet weekly, on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to8 pm. After a short gathering, queer youth and their parents will divide into two groups: The first group will be for the youth themselves; the second will be for parents who are learning how to best love and support their queer children, while also working through their own “coming out” process.
How you can learn more ~
Taking on a new ministry such as this can be intimidating. Maybe you’ve wondered, “What if I say the wrong thing? What if I don’t know what to say? What if ….?”
There are lots of worries about how we do this well and with love. The simple answer is that each one of us will misstep. But, I have no doubt that the Holy Spirit is active in this ministry and that it will be ok. As a queer person myself, I can say that I’d rather someone love and accept me with the wrong words, than to not try at all.
To address some of our shared concerns, I’ll be offering “Queer 101” on Sunday, August 13; and again on Sunday, October 1, following the 10:30 services. If you are interested in learning more about the queer experience or language you may hear in the groups about queer identity, I invite you to join us for one of the Queer 101 offerings.
How you can help ~
There are several ways that you can be involved in this new ministry.
First, and most importantly, you can pray. We need everyone’s prayers for this ministry. Be in prayer for our discernment and planning. We welcome your prayers for all involved; youth, parents,and volunteers.
Second, you can volunteer. For each weekly meeting we will need 5-7 volunteers: 2 facilitators in each support group, as well as greeters and hosts.
Third, you can offer support by providing games for the youth to play. If you would like to purchase a game for the group, please contact me or Jeremy Clos.
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In whatever way you can participate, through prayer, volunteering, and/or providing needed resources, your support will be invaluable to True Colors. We envision this to be a living and growing ministry. We are confident that we’ll learn and adapt as we move forward. And, at the heart of this endeavor, we have the assurance that the Holy Spirit is with us and guiding us. Let’s show God’s children just how much God loves them!