Carrie Fry-Miller's final NewsNet article
August 2009

This is a Kairos moment. Not only have we seen a shift in the nation, but we have also seen a shift in the Mennonite Church and the Church of the Brethren as the stars align themselves for the creation of a new church, fully inclusive of lgbt people. I have had the opportunity this year to be part of this Kairos moment.

The creativity and courage of Mennonite youth and young adults turning the MCUSA Convention into a sea of pink was encouraging. The strength of Mennonite pastors who wrote and signed a letter calling MCUSA to full inclusion of its lgbt members has been empowering. Faculty, staff and students of Mennonite and Church of the Brethren colleges have expressed commitment to working for lgbt justice on their campuses. Progressive Brethren gathered and explored ways to be a voice for justice in the Church. Almost 200 Church of the Brethren youth and young adults called the church to accountability by signing a statement which challenges the Church’s unjust practices toward lgbt people. An overwhelming number of people showed support of the lgbt community by wearing rainbow scarves at the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference. This has inspired and empowered me with hope that our vision for an inclusive church will become a reality. 

I have had the privilege and honor to work with BMC during this exciting time. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity. As my term ends, I look forward to studying at Bethany Theological Seminary where I’ll be working towards a Master of Divinity degree. I will also continue to work with you as we challenge injustice within our lives, families, congregations and denominations.