A Springfield church has designated itself a “reconciling congregation,” a status which reflects a welcoming approach to all, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or other issues.
Douglas Avenue United Methodist Church is the first Methodist church in Springfield – and only the third among the 87 Illinois counties in the Great Rivers Conference – to adopt the designation.
The issue of LGBTQ rights has caused a rift within the United Methodist Church, causing some congregations around the country to break away from the denomination.
But appearing live on WMAY, Reverend Meredith Manning Brown said the designation reflects Biblical teachings about how Jesus himself reached out to those from all walks of life.
The designation will be celebrated this weekend during Sunday services at the church on South Douglas.
You can learn more at douglasavenue.org, and you can hear the entire interview linked above and below!
