So Would I Be Welcomed Here? Or Not Really?

I attended a interesting gathering recently with people who identify as Christian entrepreneurs. Several pastors were also there, but – interestingly – I only recognized one of them and I know a lot of pastors in this town. Admittedly I don’t know everyone but I was clearly in a room of strangers.

I was invited by one of my favorite Christian entrepreneurs and I know that she and I agree on several things like the ordination of women and LGBTQA+ people.

Like in every other interaction in these divided times, my ears perked up when I heard the speakers make positive references to “biblical marriage” and Hobby Lobby just like some people’s ears perk up when they hear terms like “gender-affirming care” and AOC. There are cultural code words that immediately cause us to make a judgement – positively or negatively. And we sort ourselves accordingly.

I decided to give the speakers some grace and – as they spoke – I looked up their organizations. All of them showed leadership that was 100% white and 100% male (except for administrative assistants or leaders specifically identified for their ministry to women.) Obviously organizations have the right to pick their own leadership. But then there was an invitation to participate in some upcoming cohorts and conversations. I think I would love to participate. But – honestly – I’m not sure I would be welcomed.

I would not participate to pick a fight. I’m truly interested in the intersection between faith and entrepreneurship. And yet, would our basic theological differences get in the way?

(Note: this is what it must feel like to be a Person of Color in White Spaces or a Queer Person in Straight Spaces every single day. I am usually welcomed in every room I find myself.)

The future of Church involves people of different backgrounds and perspectives seeking God’s will together in love and respect. The Reign of God includes people of every kind from every neighborhood brought together by the Creator who made us all.

So . . . I completed an interest form at the Christian Entrepreneur event and I would love to participate in one of their 2024 cohorts. And I also noted in “other information” that I was a PCUSA clergywoman who believed that God also calls LGBTQA+ believers to lead and that I hope I would still be welcomed to participate. I’ll let you know.

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