The One who embodied love perfectly and announced the presence of the Beloved Community once said that when two or three are gathered in my name, I am there in their midst (paraphrased). There were three of us at the Chicago area Solidarity Picnic claiming a safe place in Grant Park on Michigan Avenue. We were there for love, and justice and safety for everyone. We were there in the name of the One.
When I first read the story of what happened to Josh and one whom he loves, I was shocked. I shook my head and thought, "Really? In the 21st century this is still happening." I was baffled, and hurt, and somewhat afraid because I had just come "out" myself and realized even more poignantly what that could mean for me and those I love.
Later I read Josh's Open Letter to the Beloved Community and I felt empowered by his response. The love, the restorative justice, the power in his response was palpable. I had shared the original story with my partner, so I shared the letter which was also connected to the invitation to a solidarity picnic in Washington DC. She immediately asked, "So, where are we picnicking?"
She and I arrived half an hour early to the site to set up. Then we lay there on our picnic blanket watching gulls fly high overhead in a beautiful bright blue, cloud free sky. I was struck by the irony that this is all that Josh had been doing; enjoying a beautiful day with someone he loves.
I am thankful for that gift of a safe space and place and love. I am thankful for the small glimpse of the Beloved Community here. And I am thankful for the larger Beloved Community who gathered and broke bread together on picnic blankets and tables in separate places in solidarity.
Reconciling Ministries Network mobilizes United Methodists of all sexual orientations and gender identities to transform our Church and world into the full expression of Christ’s inclusive love.
