Connecting Families is a support network of Brethren and Mennonite persons committed to providing mutual support for families with gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or intersex members. As a part of the Christian/Anabaptist tradition, we respect the various places people are in their spiritual journeys and in their pilgrimage of understanding of gay and lesbian concerns. We are a group of people, each on our own journey. Through listening and sharing our stories, we seek to provide support for families whose children are coming out to them and/or to their church. Connecting Families East began 30 years ago as a group of parents with lgbtq children coming together for support and care. Since then the group has expanded to include family members, allies, and those in the lgbtq community. The gathering includes worship, education, storytelling, and mutual support, all within a context of joy and community.