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Local GroupsThere are informal BMC local groups and networks across North America, from Eastern Canada to the San Francisco Bay area. Some local groups have periodic meetings for fellowship, potlucks, business or worship. The BMC Executive Director can provide the names of local contacts.Iowa BMCIowa BMC has had no formal structure during the past few years. Although there have been attempts to establish periodic meeting times and social events, interest has not been sufficient to warrant such. However, there have been varied informal contacts of some BMCers in Iowa. These are largely via e-mail and/or infrequent face-to-face contacts at other events. To date, this seems to meet the need for local contact. However, the contact person listed is ready to organize meetings, either on a statewide basis or otherwise (for example, one in the Iowa City area and one in the Des Moines/Ames area) as interest is shown. Around 10 years ago there had been a more regular schedule of Iowa BMC meetings, with mainly a social focus. One weekend retreat was held, as well. The local contact person is available for personal visits, phone, contact, or e-mail communication. Keith Schrag Indianapolis BMCIndianapolis BMC has been in existence for about 10 years. It was started after Kris Kauffman and Marlin King bumped into one another at the Philadelphia convention and found out they were both living in Indianapolis. The group currently has about 15 homes on the mailing list, some homes now with children. We meet every 3 months - usually in someone's home but also at restaurants, ballgames, etc. We've been trying to get more creative in our activities and are planning a pool party in June. We are now listed in one of the local gay monthly's and it has generated a few contacts. I can be reached at the following address: Michael Litwiller BMC OntarioBMC Ontario is a lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender group of Mennonites who meet socially for potlucks and other fun activities approximately every 2 months in various homes throughout southern Ontario. New folks are always welcome. Please contact us at the address below. Each year, BMC Ontario hosts a winter retreat on the 3rd weekend in February. Parents of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Mennonites may wish to contact The Parent Support Group. It is an informal group of Mennonite parents who have lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender sons or daughters. The group started in 1987, when several parents felt a need to gather for support and encouragement. The group meets regularly on a bi-monthly basis in each other's homes or other suitable places. bmcontario@yahoo.com San Francisco BMCSan Francisco BMC meets on a regular basis, usually every other month, or upon request. The BMC group tends to have a fairly tight relationship with First Mennonite Church, although there are many BMCers who do not attend services. Various faith traditions are represented, including Christianity, Judaism, Faeries, and Native American Religions. The BMC group is open to "out and identified GLBT folks" and "SCN folks or other supportive individuals."
726 Fillmore St. #3 Goshen BMCBMC Goshen will resume activities within this year with periodic potlucks. Contact the following people for more information. Wilma Harder Eric Kanagy BMC Shenandoah Valley BMC Shenandoah Valley group is a mixed age group with college age people to adults. They meet together for sharing and support. BMC Valley is the e-mail list for BMC Shenandoah Valley. Contact the BMC Office for more information. BMC OregonOregon Brethren Mennonite Council is a group of supportive persons that meet approximately every two months fellowshipping around potluck meals and sharing our stories. We have been meeting faithfully since 1996. we host at different homes throughout the Willamette Valley. It has a small faithful core group consisting of parents, former spouses, gays and friends of gays and lesbians that encourage and welcome visitors to come and share their stories and receive support. We welcome any and all persons curious about our group. Our e-mail address is BMCOregon@yahoogroups.com. Please feel free to contact us and learn when our next meeting is to be held. Los Angeles BMCThe LA group began with a potluck in 2006. People had such a good time and enjoyed each other’s company so much that they decided to meet 2-4 times a year. To connect with this relaxed and welcoming group, contact: |
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