Gentle Spirit Christian Church

May 1, 2008

This Week in GLBTQ History

Weekly Humor

This weeks decorations for worship have been provided by God! Come check out the bright colors, the perfectly placed plants, the beautiful choir in the trees!

"The Church Without Walls" Sunday 10:30am in Candler Park at the first picnic pavilion. Worship is followed by a potluck picnic.

So what do you say pack a picnic basket and come out and enjoy the creative of God!
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LAST WEEK: no AM Service 8 at Community Service $215.00 offering!
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First Christian Church of Decatur and Gentle Spirit Christian Church are delighted to be co-hosting historic and exciting step of ecumenism by offering worship for people from all walks of life. We share a vision and prayer to reflect the amazing diversity and thriving faith found in the city of Decatur and the surrounding communities. We strive to be open and accepting of all God's children.

Through the service of prayer, praise we will extend an open invitation to the Lord's Table. Each are invited to join us at 6:47pm each Sunday evening to experience the "Community in Communion". Offering collected each week will go to a shared benevolence fund for both Churches to use for emergency needs in the community.

Sunday: May 4th 6:47pm in the Chapel at 601 West Ponce de Leon Avenue Decatur, Georgia 30030. We hope you will join us for our first step of making history together!
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From Rev. Guy Kent:

Please thank everyone who prayed for Maggie and Roxie, the lesbian couple who for years took in the badly abused children from this area as foster parents -- having been harassed by the folks of some fundamental churches for doing so.

About a year ago they came to a prayerful and painful decision to seek adoption of two of the children -- beautiful girls, ages 7 and 5. After a long process the courts have awarded full custody of the children to them and legally changed their names to the hyphenated last names of their new moms.

What a time of celebration it was at church yesterday.

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Dear friends,

I hope you are available to take part in this important memorial at YouthPride on Friday night! Remember Sakia!!!!

Asha


Friday May 2nd @ 7pm The Ladies of Omicron Epsilon Pi Sorority Proudly presents a Sakia Gunn Memorial. Sakia Gunn was a 15 year old African American lesbian from Newark New Jersey that was stabbed to death because of her sexuality.

At this memorial we will have a poetry reading, movie of Sakia Gun, information of the life and death of this young lady, a discussion on hate crimes, and a candle light vigil in honor of Sakia Gunn.

Friday, May 2nd at 7pm
Youth Pride
1017 Edgewood Ave.Atlanta, GA 30307
Become informed and inspired by this passionate presentation.
Of living life proud! and without fear!

The Gamma Alpha Pi Chapter of Omicron Epsilon Pi Sorority Inc.
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Check out the Pastor's blog. You can click on any of the following options to see and read:

http://www.reverendbitchsir.blogspot.com/

http://360.yahoo.com/crazydog2us

http://www.mychurch.org/gentlespirit

This is where you can see our podcasts of worship in Candler Park: http://gscc.podomatic.com

NEW!!!! SEE THE "WELCOME TO THE NEW WEEK" ON PODCAST POSTED EACH MONDAY!

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May/June 2008 Issue of Whosoever Now Online!

Below is a PARTIAL list of what's new in this issue. For a FULL Table of Contents go to http://whosoever.org/v12i6/

Issue Theme: This Little Light of Mine

COVER STORIES:

* Strike a Match -- By: Candace Chellew-Hodge * - To let our light truly shine, we must – we must – come out. If we are going to change the framing story about GLBT people, we must tell our stories. We must be vocal. We must step out of the shadows and shine!

http://whosoever.org/v12i6/match.shtml

* Buckets and Closets -- By: Suzie Chamness * - We are truly the most colorful people. We are varied as all the colors of the rainbow and we are differently made. Each of us has a unique light to shine for God and to help all people see the true love that shows through this the rainbow of people.

http://whosoever.org/v12i6/buckets.shtml

* Let There Be Light -- By: John H. Campbell * - I now know that we are closest of all to God when we are simply being, allowing ourselves to feel wholly loved by God, and allowing that Love to flow from us - like light, or electricity - to all others in need of it.

http://whosoever.org/v12i6/campbell.shtml

FEATURES:

* The New Christians: An Interview with Emergent Leader Tony Jones -- By: Candace Chellew-Hodge * -- So, can GLBT people find a home in emergent? As will all things emergent, the answer is, "That depends."

http://whosoever.org/v12i6/emergent.shtml

* Becoming a Transcendent Christian: An Interview with Author Daniel Helminiak -- By: Candace Chellew-Hodge * -- To become a transcended Christian, one must do more than do good and seek justice. Even fundamentalist Christians can do that, Helminiak said.

http://whosoever.org/v12i6/helminiak.shtml

* Archbishop Tutu Speaks Out for GLBT People -- By: Rev. Jay Emerson Johnson, Ph.D. * -- Even more moving, Archbishop Tutu also asked for our forgiveness on behalf of the church, which has so often made us, he said, a "lesser part" of God's creation. He compared this sin to the long tradition of excluding women from ordained ministry. We now see, he said, how such exclusion "impoverished" the church and its work for far too long.

http://whosoever.org/v12i6/tutu.shtml

And much more! Check out the full table of contents at: http://whosoever.org/v12i6/

_______________ATTENTION WRITERS!___________________

Theme for July/August 2008:

Freedom

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
-2 Corinthians 3:17

Each July 4 in the United States we celebrate our freedom. We mark out Independence Day with hot dogs, parades and fireworks.

How do we celebrate our freedom in Christ? What does it mean to have the freedom that the Spirit of the Lord brings to us? Is this freedom to do as we please, freedom to act without regard for others? Or, does this kind of freedom come with certain responsibilities to ourselves and to others?

We'll explore these questions and more in the July/August 2008 issue of Whosoever. If you would like to write on this topic, or any other topic, please send an email to editor@whosoever.org.

Deadline: June 26, 2008

___________PRE-ORDER BULLETPROOF FAITH________________

Whosoever Founder and Editor Candace Chellew-Hodge's first book, "Bulletproof Faith: A Spiritual Survival Guide for Gay and Lesbian Christians," will be released in September from Jossey-Bass. You can pre-order the book now through Amazon.com.

Use the link below to put in your order today!

http://tinyurl.com/6dt4ln

______________ SUBSCRIBE TO OUR BLOG!___________________

Candace Chellew-Hodge maintains the Christian Agnostic blog. Check it daily for inspirational thoughts and updates on news of importance to GLBT Christians.

http://christianagnostic.blogspot.com/

______________ SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PODCAST!___________________

Whosoever is now producing podcasts - or "godcasts" - on a regular basis. Subscribe, or listen to streaming audio, by going to this page!

http://feeds.feedburner.com/WhosoeverPodcasts

_______________ JOIN OUR ONLINE COMMUNITY ____________________

Meet other GLBT people of faith through our online groups:

Rainbow Fish Regional Groups: Meet people who live in your geographical area for spiritual growth, support and fun. Go to this page and sign up for your area: http://www.whosoever.org/rainbowfish/

Whosoever Prays: This list is designed specifically for those who wish to become involved prayer partners with other GLBT Christians. The group encourages sharing of prayer requests and praises. We've seen some miracles on this list! We hope you'll join us!

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WhosoeverPrays/join Or send an email to: WhosoeverPrays-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Whosoever Magazine List: This list is intended for the spiritual growth and support of our readers. We discuss everything from topics in the magazine to sharing our prayer requests and praises. If you would like to join, click on the link below and follow the instructions!

http://groups.yahoo.com/subscribe/whosoevermagazine
Or send and email to: whosoevermagazine-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
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Hi Friends,

Consider this your VIP invitation to the 2008 EVOLVE! event in support of suicide prevention.

The EVOLVE! program relies on steady support from the public in order to continue providing these essential services to Georgia youths in need. This year the EVOLVE! fundraiser will be held at the Bill Lowe Gallery's Midtown location in the Silhouette Building at 1447 Peachtree Street (just a block north of the High Museum).

Local DJ's Kim Crawford and Travis Roache will be returning for a third year in a row, spinning an upbeat, crowd-pleasing mix of music. And hometown favorite Guyton Maurice will perform for the second year in a row! Hors d'oeuvres provided by No Mas Cantina and Endive. Drinks provided by Georgia Crown. 100% of all proceeds go directly to the EVOLVE! program.

Activities include a silent auction, live entertainment and complimentary hors d'oeuvres and drinks for guests. All donations, tips and auction proceeds will go directly to the EVOLVE! Program fund at YouthPride.

The EVOLVE! Program at YouthPride was established in 2006 in memory of Keith Cheung.

We welcome whatever level of financial support you are able to provide to the EVOLVE! program at YouthPride to ensure the continuation of this vital service.

$450 supports 10 mental health counseling sessions for a youth needing care
$250 brings professional training to staff, volunteers and youth
$100 supports circular materials on suicide prevention

Be our friend!
Visit www.myspace.com/evolve_yp for more information on this vital program.
www.myspace.com/youthprideyouthVOLVE! program at YouthPride to ensure the continuation of this vital service.

$450 supports 10 mental health counseling sessions for a youth needing care
$250 brings professional training to staff, volunteers and youth
$100 supports circular materials on suicide prevention

Be our friend!
Visit www.myspace.com/evolve_yp for more information on this vital program.
www.myspace.com/youthprideyouth

YouthPride's EVOLVE program combats the stigma of depression and suicide by bringing awareness of suicidal ideation to members of the community, volunteers, and YouthPride participants. The EVOLVE program provides FREE psychological counseling to any LGBTQ youth who expresses suicidal thoughts or behaviors either through disclosing their feelings with a staff member or volunteer, by engaging in high risk sexual behaviors, by increased drug and/or alcohol abuse. To date YouthPride has paid for over 1300 hours of counseling for our members.

Some statistics:

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college students Suicide is the third leading cause of death for people under the age of 25 Men are 4 times more likely to complete suicide while women are twice as likely to expresses suicidal thoughts LGBTQ youth are 3 to 4 times more likely to complete suicide than heterosexual youth 150 young people committed suicide in GA in 2005 Hospitalization due to a suicide attempt for someone under 25 is 130 per 100,000 (2006) ER visits due to a suicide attempt for someone under 25 is 225 per 100,000 (2006
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QUICKSILVER COUNTRY DANCERS
Gender-free Contra Dancing for the LGBT Community and Our Straight Allies & Friends

Gender-free Contra Dance Saturday, May 10, 2008

Come dance with us at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Atlanta !!!

If you've been meaning to come to a QCD contra dance, or you haven't been to a dance in a while, this is the time to join us!

Newcomer's Orientation at 7:30 p.m.
Dance begins at 8:00 p.m.
Cost: $9/adults and $5 students & children 9-18 years

Download a flyer at: www.qcdancers.org/08flyer.pdf
Directions to our dances at the UUCA: www.qcdancers.org/directions.htm
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No wait for Brunch
Radial is now accepting reservations for our weekend Brunches. While our second dining room and patio have made it much easier to get a table, there are still times where our guests have to wait for seating. If you want to be sure to get in on Saturday or Sunday without having to wait, send us an email by 2pm the day before and we'll set aside a table for you. Reservations are taken via email only... send Phil a message at reservations@radial.us

Catering and Private Parties
Need breakfast, lunch or dinner catered? Radial has been providing catering services for our guests since 2001. We can be a cost effective way to bring great food to your event. We also have space available for private party rental, anytime from 5am-11pm. We've hosted rehearsal dinners, birthday parties, sales meetings, board meetings and many other functions over the years. Let us know what we can help you with. Email catering@radial.us for info or to book our space.
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Folks,

This may help your people. Please get this info out asap.

Kaiser Bridge Program has an open enrollment until May 3. Anyone can participate and does not have to be associated with an organization. ANYONE!

For individuals that do not have any other form insurance and can not afford other insurance.

Income Requirements: For household of 2, less than $3500/ month income; for 3, less than $4400/ mth.

Coverage premiums: single subscriber $21/mth, subscriber and child(ren) $38/ mth

There are no deductibles but here is a small co-pay per doc visit. This plan does not include dental or anything more than and eye exam under vision.

Come to get more information than above. Everyone's situation is different.

Rep will be at the Goodwill Career Ctr (1295 Columbia Dr, Decatur Ga 30034) on Friday (4/25) at 10a to sign everyone up. You must have all the required documentation to sign up. Or you can make an appointment with her to go to her Roswell Rd office.

Tell everyone you know about this great program!

Above is the basics and not all the information presented.

Contact Rep:
Jowan Dennis at 770.645.4490; 404.364.4810
North Fulton Career Ctr, 8610 Roswell Rd, Atlanta Ga 30350

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Our upcoming production will be in Atlanta GA May 24 2008. At the 14th Street Playhouse.. this event is for all of us.. if you want to laugh,cry,and have a goodtime.. don't miss it.. Tickets are available April 15 at the Woodruff Art Center

All In the Name Of Luv (stage play)

All In The Name Of Luv Is a relevant depiction of the trials and tribulations involved in all relationships of the heart – Janet and Toni just happen to be lesbians! Janet and Toni test the boundaries of trust, fidelity and understanding. Add advice form friends. A little eavesdropping. And a Mystery Lady and the plot thickens quickly…
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Saturday, May 3, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm - The 8th Annual 3k Walk 'n Roll and Silent Auction for Friends of Disabled Adults and Children, Too! (FODAC). So mark your calendar and get yourself to Stone Mountain Park. FODAC is a statewide and national provider of home health care equipment—mobility aids and daily living devices for people with disabilities and the newly injured. Aren’t you glad to know that 100% of the proceeds from the walk go toward the FODAC effort to help provide:
* Free refurbished durable medical equipment
* Disposable medical equipment
* Home ramps
* Vehicle modifications
* Wheelchair repairs
Walkers who raise $50 or more will get a T-shirt and an All-Attractions Pass to Stone Mountain Park. For more information, visit:
http://www.fodac.org/events/3/8th-Annual-3k-Walk-n-Roll-and-Silent-Auction
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Presbyterian Church Clears Minister In Gay Marriage Case
by The Associated Press Posted: April 29, 2008 - 5:00 pm ET
(Tiburon, California) The highest court of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) has found that a Northern California minister did not violate denominational law when she officiated at the weddings of two lesbian couples.

The ruling announced Tuesday by the Louisville, Ky.-based court overturns a decision against the Rev. Jane Spahr last year. A regional judicial committee had found Spahr guilty of misconduct and gave her a rebuke — the lightest possible punishment.

The church's high court found that the ceremonies Spahr performed were not marriages, so she did not violate the church's constitution.

The panel reiterated the church's position that Presbyterian ministers can bless same-sex unions as long as the ceremonies don't too closely mimic traditional weddings.

Spahr, 65, of San Rafael, retired last year. She was the first minister of her faith to be tried for officiating the weddings of gay couples, and one of several Presbyterian ministers facing disciplinary action for similar offenses.

Acting on a complaint brought by a minister in Washington state, the Presbytery of the Redwoods, which oversees 52 churches along the Pacific coast, brought the charges against Spahr in 2005 for marrying the couples from New York and California.

In 2006, a Northern California church court that found Spahr had acted within her rights as a minister when she interpreted the church doctrine to permit her presiding over the weddings. The presbytery appealed the ruling to the church's regional judicial commission.

Many Protestant denominations are divided over how they should interpret what the Bible says about homosexuality. In the Presbyterian Church, several theologically conservative congregations have announced plans to break away from the denomination.

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From Memphis to Atlanta: The Drum Major Returns Home – An exhibition in remembrance of Dr. King’s assassination forty years ago. It re-examines the final days of Dr. King’s life as he journeyed to Memphis campaigning on behalf of sanitation workers. The exhibition will be displayed at the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site, Visitor Center, 450 Auburn Avenue, from now through August 31. Admission is free. The site is open 7 days a week, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (6 PM June 8-August 16). For more information call 404.331.5190 or visit www.nps.gov/malu
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Mayday Wellness Workshop for Activists
Thursday, May 1, 7:30-9:00pm

Sonali Sadequee, founder of Sustainable Wellness, will facilitate a free interactive workshop for activists needing tools for regaining health and balance while experiencing "wholistic justice". As we go about the work of making the world a better place, we must be able to sustain and renew ourselves and promote wellness in each other as a community, according to Sonali's teachings.

Come learn about the Sustainable Wellness philosophy, nutrition, and lifestyle practices that will make your own wellness a REAL ACTION ITEM for the long haul!
www. sustainable-wellness. com
www. chariscircle. org
www. charisbooksandmore. com

This Charis Circle event is FREE and will take place at Charis Books & More in Little 5 Points, at 1189 Euclid Ave NE, Atlanta GA 30307. For more information, visit our website or call 404-524-0304.

Mission Statement: Charis Circle exists to foster sustainable feminist communities, to work for social justice, and to encourage the expression of diverse and marginalized voices.
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The 2008 Georgia Special Olympics Summer Games are coming up. There will be 20 sports and over 2000 athletes competing on the campus of Emory University from May 30 – June1. Got a few hours to donate? Volunteers are welcome and now being sought. Visit www.specialolympicsga.org or call 770.414.9390 x120
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Job Opportunities

Most Recent Job Opportunity listings received. For job descriptions, details and qualifications; follow the contact or application instructions included below.

Most Recent Received Job Postings:
1. (Two) Membership & Financial Education Outreach Consultant (1) and Public Relations Officer and Internship (2) – The Georgia Family Development Center – (1) Contractual relationship for 4-6 months, 35 hrs/wk Partnership building & Member recruitment. (2) Scope of Work 4-6 months, 10 to 25 hrs/wk; however internship hours and days are negotiable. Student/s with an interest in Latin American issues, Microfinance, Microenterprise, Economic Development or Community Development are offered to build invaluable experience that school alone cannot provide and the opportunity to build a resume that will open doors. Go to http://ideas.centraldesktop.com/gfcu/Jobpostings for full job descriptions and how to apply.

2. Atlanta Area Manager – Meals-On-Wheels. The Meals On Wheels Atlanta (MOWA) Manager conducts the work necessary to successfully operate a nonprofit home-delivered meals program, including the day-to-day operations, and short- and long-term growth and development. No phone calls will be accepted. Submit your resume and salary requirement to:
Patrick O'Kane
Director of Operations
1705 Commerce Drive, NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
pokane@scsatl.org

3. Office Administrator – Congregation Bet Haverim - LGBT founded synagogue administrator is primarily responsible for the smooth operation of the synagogue office, and is partly responsible for coordinating all of CBH's programs, staff, volunteers and logistics. This individual must be highly organized and focused and has central responsibility for the record-keeping, planning and publicizing of all activities. More info at the he job posting from Opportunity Knocks http://opportunityknocks.org/JobseekerX/ViewJob.asp?JobID=wp5JM3YJvZMLEwghqPMMD5YVF2z1

4. Development Associate & Administrator – Project South: Institute for the Elimination of Poverty & Genocide, Atlanta. Position is responsible for managing the overall operations and administration of Project South including financial administration, communications, database management, maintenance and tracking, membership program support, and developing and maintaining all administrative systems. For more information call 404.622.0602 and send resume to christi@projectsouth.org