MCC UPDATE: Prop. 8, California, Marriage Equality & MCC

WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2009 . Los Angeles
_____________________________________

AN UPDATE
from the MCC Communications Department

The following reports and info received as of 3 PM Pacific Time on Wednesday.

See "A Brief History of MCC and Marriage Equality" at the end of this message.

-- The major breaking news today came in a joint press conference in West Hollywood by well-known lawyers Ted Olson and David Boies. They have filed a lawsuit in the U.S. federal courts seeking a ruling that California's Prop. 8 violates the U.S. constitutional rights of California's LGBT community. That these highly successful and polar opposite attorneys have joined to fight for LGBT rights is especially significant -- Olson is a former Bush administration Solicitor General who represented the Bush campaign before the U.S. Supreme Court in the 2000 presidential election, and Boies represented by Gore campaign in the same Supreme Court case. It will be interesting to follow this case; activists are divided on whether the timing is right to put this case in the federal courts.

-- More than 5000 people took part in a public rally in West Hollywood last night, including Rev. Troy Perry, Rev. Neil Thomas and numerous MCCers. The rally shut down streets throughout Los Angeles and the crowd marched from West Hollywood to Hollywood.

-- Three MCC clergy -- Rev. Leah Brown, Rev. Jeff Bert, and Rev. Dr. Penny Nixon, along with members of MCCSF, were arrested during a peaceful, civil disobedience demonstration on Tuesday. Rev. Brown, pastor of MCC San Francisco, was also quoted in the San Francisco Chronicle and on KCRA TV. http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/05/26/BAT817R2QD.DTL&tsp=1 and http://www.kcra.com/politics/19565488/detail.html. MCC will release a public media statement in support of the arrested protestors on Wednesday afternoon.

-- Resurrection MCC (Houston, Texas), where Rev. Dwayne Johnson is pastor, held a public rally on Tuesday evening in support of marriage equality. http://blogs.houstonpress.com/hairballs/2009/05/prop_8_houston_protest.php

-- MCC El Paso (Texas), where Rev. Kati Houts is interim pastor, took part in a public rally in solidarity with California's LGBT community. The story was covered by the El Paso press. http://www.newspapertree.com/features/3866-gay-marriage-supporters-rally-in-downtown-el-paso

-- Rev. Clinton Crenshaw was a featured speaker at the Day of Decision Rally in New Orleans on Tuesday evening. Rev. Crenshaw is pastor of Big Easy MCC in New Orleans; the church's motto is "Be celebrated... not tolerated!"

-- MCC San Jose (California), where Rev. Michael Patrick Ellard is pastor, opened the doors of their church on May 26 and 27 for the LGBT community to gather for prayer and support.

-- Rev. Lisa Heilig, interim pastor, and Church of the Trinity MCC (Sarasota, Florida) organized a Day of Decision event at which MCC's Moderator, Rev. Nancy Wilson, was a featured speaker.

-- Members of MCC of San Diego, where Rev. Dan Koeshall is pastor, took part in the city's peaceful Day of Decision Rally and March last night.

-- MCC's press statement included quotes by Rev. Nancy Wilson, MCC moderator, and Rev. Pat Bumgardner, chair of MCC's Social Justice Team. Thanks to Rev. Jim Merritt, MCC's marriage equality coordinator, for his excellent work on this project.

-- Rev. Dr. Neil Thomas, president of the statewide, interfaith California Faith for Equality, has been providing a public face and voice for people of faith who support marriage equality. He took part in a press conference and public events throughout the day on Tuesday, and released a public statement to the media through California Faith for Equality. http://cffenewsblog.blogspot.com/2009/05/california-faith-for-equality-decision.html (Our special thanks and congratulations to Neil, who also received his doctoral degree from San Francisco Theological Seminary this past weekend. RevNeil@mccla.org)

-- Rev. Troy Perry took part in a press conference at the offices of attorney Gloria Allred, was interviewed by the Associated Press and Religion News Service, and took part in public rallies and events on Tuesday. On Wednesday evening, he will participate in a public demonstration at the Beverly Hills Hilton where U.S. President Obama will be attending a private fundraising event and will be a speaker at the "Meet in the Middle" rally in Fresno, California, on Saturday..

-- The California Supreme Court released its decision upholding Prop. 8 at 10 AM Pacific Time on Tuesday. The denomination of MCC released its public response to the media at 10:08 am and Rev. Troy Perry's media response at 10:12 am.

NOTE: If you know of other MCC congregations that participated in Day of Decision rallies, or which received media coverage of such events, please send details to the MCC Communications Department at info@MCCchurch.net.


A BRIEF HISTORY OF MARRIAGE EQUALITY AND MCC:

For 40 years, MCC has been at the forefront of the marriage equality movement. In 1969, MCC's Founder Rev. Troy Perry performed the first public same-sex marriage in the United States in Huntington Park, California. In 1970, he filed the first lawsuit in the U.S. seeking legal recognition of same-gender marriages. That case was dismissed, but it served to launch the marriage equality movement in the United States. In 1975, Rev. Freda Smith performed the first U.S. same-sex wedding conducted with a civil marriage license in Denver, Colorado, for Richard Adams and Anthony Sullivan. Their marriage is still listed on the Colorado Bureau of Records website. In 1994, MCC's Rev. Roberto Gonzalez performed the first mass lesbian-gay blessing of couples in South America at the ILGA in Rio. In 2001, Rev. Dr. Brent Hawkes of MCC Toronto performed Canada's first legal same-sex wedding under Canada's ancient law of the Reading of the Bann's. In 2003, Supreme Court of Ontario upheld MCC Toronto's legal case -- making same-gender marriage legal throughout Canada. Rev. Troy Perry and his spouse, Phillip Ray De Blieck, were legally married under Canadian law in July of 2003. In 2002, MCC members Alejandro Soria and Oscar Benitez became the second couple in Latin America -- and the first clergy couple -- to be united under Buenos Aires' Civil Union provision. In 2004, Rev. Troy Perry and his spouse sued the County of Los Angeles seeking the specific legal recognition of their Canadian marriage and the general recognition of same-gender marriages under California constitutional law. On December 21, 2005, Rev. Debbie Gaston and her spouse, Elaine, became the first same-sex couple married under England's civil partnership law. In 2008, the California Supreme Court ruled in favor of Rev. Perry's lawsuit, making marriage equality the law in California. 18,000 same-sex couples were legally married before California voters revoked marriage equality in the Prop. 8 vote in November of 2008. Rev. Dr. Neil Thomas serves as president of the interfaith California Faith for Equality, which represents 6000 faith leaders and organizations in California. MCC members have been at the forefront of the marriage equality movements in Argentina, Australia, Canada, Denmark, England, France, Germany, Mexico, New Zealand, Nigeria, Scotland, South Africa and the United States.
________________________________

For Additional Information, Contact:

Jim Birkitt
Communications Director
Metropolitan Community Churches
P. O. Box 691728
West Hollywood, California 90069
E-mail: info@MCCchurch.net

MCC Responds to California Supreme Court Marriage Ruling

PUBLIC STATEMENT
From Metropolitan Community Churches

Denomination of Metropolitan Community Churches Responds
To Mixed Decision By California Supreme Court
Ruling Upholds 18,000 Same-Sex Marriages in California

The denomination of Metropolitan Community Churches expresses its deep disappointment at today’s decision by the California Supreme Court upholding Proposition 8 and prohibiting same-sex marriages in the state.

Rev. Nancy Wilson, moderator of Metropolitan Community Churches said, “While we celebrate with the 18,000 same-sex couples whose marriages will stand, we are deeply saddened by the court’s decision to allow legalized discrimination against same-gender families. We will continue to work and pray for the day when all citizens are assured the blessings of equality and justice.”

Leaders and members of Metropolitan Community Church have been involved in the struggle for Marriage Equality for four decades, among them MCC Founder Rev. Troy Perry, who performed the first public same-sex wedding in the United States in 1969, and Rev. Dr. Neil Thomas, senior pastor of MCC Los Angeles and president of California Faith for Equality.

Rev. Pat Bumgardner, senior pastor of Metropolitan Community Church of New York City said, “The decision of the California Supreme Court today essentially mandates segregation within the LGBT community, and that is not only legally unacceptable, it is immoral. What I want both those who support marriage equality and those who oppose it to know is that we as a people will not give up until full equality is achieved, and that it will be achieved. This battle is not over and won't be over until we are celebrating full equality across these United States."

MCC encourages non-violent responses to today’s decision. Public events are planned across the United States at which members of the community can respond to the court's ruling. For more information about these events, please visit www.dayofdecision.com.

Metropolitan Community Churches continues to stand for Marriage Equality and for full equality and justice for all people both in the United States and around the world. For additional information about MCC, visit www.MCCchurch.org.


For Further Information, Contact:
Rev. Jim Merritt
Marriage Equality Coordinator for MCC’s Global Justice Team
Metropolitan Community Churches
E-mail: revjim@thecommunityactivist.com
Web: www.MCCchurch.org
This message prepared in conjunction with the Global Justice Team of Metropolitan Community Churches, The Reverend Pat Bumgardner, chair.

Rev. Troy D. Perry, MCC Founder, Responds to California Same-Sex Marriage Decision

MEDIA STATEMENT

From Rev. Troy D. Perry

Founder, Metropolitan Community Churches

RESPONSE TO CALIFORNIA MARRIAGE RULING

STATEMENT:

Today, I am adding my voice to the voices of people of goodwill everywhere who are deeply disappointed that the California Supreme Court has failed to uphold marriage equality for California's citizens.

It is ironic that the same court that ruled in favor of marriage equality last year has now denied that same right in today's ruling.

My forty years of work on behalf of human rights and social justice offer hope that today's ruling, while a setback for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender couples, is only a temporary setback in the quest for full equality under the law for all of our citizens.

The silver lining in the court's ruling is that the 18,000 same-sex couples who were legally married before the adoption of Proposition 8 will continue to have full marriage equality under the law.

I am joining hands with civic, political and faith leaders to redouble our efforts to guarantee marriage equality for all of our state's citizens and to pursue every possible option to achieve that goal at the earliest possible date.

# END #

For Additional Information or Media Interviews, Contact:

Jim Birkitt

Communications Director

Metropolitan Community Churches

P.O. Box 691728

West Hollywood, California 90069

Tel. (310) 625-4177

E-mail: info@MCCchurch.net

Iglesias de la Comunidad Metropolitana (ICM) Anuncia Cambios Estructurales

Carta Pastoral de parte de la
Junta de Obispas y Obispos de las
Iglesias de la Comunidad Metropolitana
_______________________________________________________

La esperanza marcará el cambio en medio de la Paradoja:
ajustando el curso para el ministerio futuro
"Porque conozco los planes que tengo para ustedes", dice Dios...(CLICK AQUÍ para mayor información sobre las estadísticas de la iglesia)
les doy un futuro lleno de esperanza".
- Jeremías 29:11
_____________________________________________________
Uno de los más recientes himnos de la iglesia se llama, "Cambia a tu iglesia, oh Dios". El cambio nos reta; nos ayuda a crecer; nos dispone para nuevos capítulos en nuestras vidas y en nuestros ministerios.

El cambio puede ser de enormes proporciones. Quizás has visto la caricatura de Dilbert en la que dice, "¡El cambio es fácil!. Tú vas primero."

La Junta de Obispas y Obispos reunidos recientemente en Austin, Texas, y batallando en el cómo compartir con ustedes nuestra profunda verdad y nuestros corazones durante este tiempo de gran reto global.

Primero, hemos estado lidiando con una paradoja:

1) ICM es más fuerte, más estable y con mejor salud que antes en su historia: la asistencia ha estado firme y creciendo (CLICK AQUÍ para mayor información sobre las estadísticas de la iglesia), el trabajo de Justicia Global de ICM esta disparándose, hay mayor interés y necesidad del ministerio y del mensaje de ICM que en cualquier otro momento anterior; el impacto de ICM en los derechos humanos continua creciendo; no tenemos una deuda significante como denominación y tenemos importantes inversiones (aun con los retos por los eventos económicos recientes); más que en cualquier otro momento de nuestra historia, clérigos de otras denominaciones están preguntando como ser parte de nuestro ministerio; y una nueva generación de activistas nos está retando y cambiando.

2) Al mismo tiempo que estamos llamados para hacer más, la actual crisis económica ha afectado adversamente nuestra habilidad financiera para apoyar y cumplir nuestra misión. Los diezmos a las iglesias y a la denominación no han estado consistentemente alto como las necesidades para apoyar nuestra estructura actual. Como individuos, como iglesias y como Fraternidad, estamos teniendo significativamente menos recursos para realizar el trabajo al cual estamos llamados. Reconociendo el peligroso estado de la economía mundial y con la concepción de que tenemos que hacer más con menos, la Junta Administrativa ha pedido que reduzcamos el presupuesto otros $250,000 USD. Esto significa que debemos hacer grandes cambios y decisiones acerca de cómo responder al llamado único de ICM en nuestro mundo con menos recursos y sin perder la fe. Tenemos el sentimiento de que como iglesias locales tenemos que llegar a romper el tamaño de nuestras barreras. ICM, como un todo, ha luchado por rebasar la "barrera de los 300" en el número de iglesias. Mientras respondemos a nuestras realidades económicas, no queremos regresar a los viejos caminos, o regresar al "tiempo pasado que fue mejor". No queremos dejar que el miedo nos detenga o lleve a atrás en los niveles del "Ciclo de Cambio". Queremos encontrar la salud y los caminos justos para organizarnos y movernos adelante para las nuevas décadas de ministerio y cree que nuestra fe y futuro son muchos más fuertes que las circunstancias actuales.

hemos estado enfrentando algunos de estos temas por años; en este sentido, la actual situación económica nos ha llevado a tomar decisiones que nos lleven al "tamaño adecuado" de nuestro liderazgo denominacional;

1) La Junta de Obispas y Obispos pone el ejemplo del sacrificio necesario para el "tamaño adecuado" de nuestro liderazgo denominacional. A partir del 1° de agosto de 2009, y por los próximos 18 meses, reduciremos el tamaño de la Junta de Obispas y Obispos y tendremos 4 Obispas y Obispos Regionales que servirán a las 7 Regiones de ICM. Así es como esto se logrará: El término de la oficina de la Obispa de la Región 4 ha sido reducido. La Rev.Obispa Glenna Shepherd terminará su periodo como Obispa de la Región 5 el día ultimo de Julio de 2009, y el puesto de la Obispa Regional de la Región 4 quedará vacante. La Rev. Obispa Arlene Ackerman, después de 17 años de servicio continuo en el liderazgo denominacional de Ias Iglesias de la Comunidad Metropolitana, no quiere ir por otro período como Obispa Regional. Dejaremos la posición de Obispa de la Región 3 vacante por el momento. No encontramos palabras adecuadas para agradecer a las Obispas Glenna y Arlene, ambas continuaran sirviendo a nuestra fraternidad y serán compañeras de la Junta de Obispas. Quiero también expresar mi firme confianza en las cuatro Obispas quienes nos guiarán durante los 18 siguientes meses - Rev. Obispa Darlene Garner, Rev. Obispa Diane Fisher, Rev. Obispa Lillie Brock y Rev. Obispo Ken Martin - y por afirmar su llamado y ministerio "en tiempos como estos". CLICK AQUÍ para tener una idea de la forma en que trabajará cada uno de los cuatro.

2) Todas las Iglesias en todas las Regiones serán atendidas por una Obispa para la atención y conexión, incluyendo la conexión y relación con ICM. Las Obispas trabajaran a través de los nuevos Equipos Regionales para ayudar a desarrollar o mantener a las iglesias con una atención significante y conexión entre los líderes y congregaciones. Sabemos que el ser parte de ICM es una dimensión de vital importancia y que se ha perdido en algunos casos. Para ver el nuevo modelo de la cobertura para las Obispas(o), CLICK AQUI.

3) Además, las cuatro Obispas(o) Regionales trabajarán principalmente con las Iglesias de acuerdo a los temas y necesidades creadas por el tamaño de la congregación. CLICK AQUÍ para más información.

Con la partida de nuestra Directora Ejecutiva (ver la carta que viene más adelante) continuaremos reconfigurando nuestro personal y las estructuras de responsabilidad. De nuevo, la Rev. Dr. Cindi Love ha realizado una contribución inestimable para la vida y salud de nuestra denominación sobre los más de cuatro años, sabemos que ella continuará ofreciendo sus dones para y a través de ICM. En este periodo interino, la Junta de Obispas(o) trabajará muy unida con la Junta Administrativa para asegurar una transición suave y ayudarnos con los asuntos administrativos de nuestra denominación.

Esto es lo que continuará siendo igual:

1. Los valores, misión y visión para el futuro de ICM, nuestra fe en el Dios que nos llamó hace 40 años.

2. Cada iglesia tendrá una Obispa(o) que servirá en su Región y supervisará la atención, conexión y funciones judiciales.

3. Juntas, las Obispas(o) ofrecerán el liderazgo espiritual.

4. Continuaremos planeando nuestra emocionante Conferencia General en Acapulco, México en 2010.

5. El Equipo de Revisión de Nuestra Estructura continuará realizando su trabajo para llevar propuestas a la Conferencia General.

6. Construiremos en el excelente trabajo de nuestra Directora Ejecutiva sobre la responsabilidad financiera, en la reestructuración del personal, desarrollo de recursos y servicios, y la expansión de nuestra misión.

7. Continuaremos trabajando en asociación con la Junta Administrativa de ICM mientras vamos por este camino de transición, y continuaremos ofreciendo información con transparencia y responsabilidad.

8. Continuaremos desarrollando y trabajando de una manera apasionante, talentosa, vehemente, comprometida con el personal de ICM.

9. ICM continuará siendo una denominación y un movimiento global. No desapareceremos, o formaremos parte de ninguna otra denominación, o abandonaremos nuestra llamada sagrada.

10. Continuaremos siendo quienes establezcamos las conexiones entre Jesús, la justicia y las comunidades globales LGBT/queer.

Esto es lo que cambiará:

1. Cada iglesia será atendida por la Obispa que sirve a cada región, y por la Obispa responsable de las Iglesias del mismo tamaño. Creemos que esto ofrecerá una ayuda más concreta y los recursos necesarios para cada iglesia, mientras trabajamos con un equipo más pequeño de Obispas(o) nos enfocaremos en las necesidades de cada iglesia de una forma más precisa.

2. Al mismo tiempo, algunas expectativas de las Obispas(o) se ajustarán en los próximos 18 meses, al menos, les pedimos su paciencia y participación.

3. Las operaciones de nuestra denominación serán ajustadas, y tendrán "tamaño adecuado" para nuestros recursos actuales, lo que significa que algunos proyectos e iniciativas se pospondrán o disminuirán, mientras nos enfocamos en como iluminar las prioridades.

Esto es lo que prometemos:

1. Información a tiempo, transparente y verdadera, mientras vamos en pos de estos cambios..

2. Apertura a las aportaciones constructivas.

3. Cooperación con nuestro Equipo de Revisión de la Estructura.

4. Audacia, creatividad y fidelidad de parte del liderazgo de ICM.

Esto es lo que necesitamos de ustedes:

1. Retroalimentación constructiva de su parte y para el Equipo de Revisión de Estructura.
2. Participación en nuestros Equipos Regionales.
3. Oraciones y paciencia.
4. El beneficio de la duda.
5. Disponibilidad de hacer las cosas de una manera diferente.

Estamos muy agradecidas con muchos de ustedes que han comprometido sus vidas y recursos para compartir el ministerio.

En mi corazón siento que Dios estará con nosotros en cada uno de los cambios, mientras que nos ofrecemos nosotros mismos, en el nombre de Dios, para quienes desesperadamente necesitan de nosotros para continuar "derribando muros y construyendo esperanza.

+Nancy

Rev. Obispa Nancy Wilson
Moderadora
Iglesias de la Comunidad Metropolitana
www.MCCchurch.org

Rev. Obispo Ken Martin
Rev. Obispa Arlene Ackerman
Rev. Obispa Glenna Shepherd
Rev. Obispa Diane Fisher
Rev. Obispa Darlene Garner
Rev. Obispa Lillie Brock


_______________________________

MESAJE ADICIONAL
de la Oficina de la Moderadora de las
Iglesias de la Comunidad Metropolitana.
_______________________________

Abril 30, 2009

Queridos Amigos de ICM:

Después de más de cuatro años como Directora Ejecutiva de ICM, la Rev. Dr. Cindi Love estará dejando su puesto con las Iglesias de la Comunidad Metropolitana. Cindi permanecerá en su puesto hasta el 27 de mayo de 2009, para ayudar con la suave transición de deberes.

Pronto estaré anunciando un nombramiento interino para continuar con nuestras operaciones.

Mientras tanto, la Rev. Obispa Darlene Garner ha sido nombrada por la Junta Administrativa, por recomendación mía, para ayudar a Cindi con esta transición.

Como dicen las Escrituras, "Hay un tiempo y estación con un propósito propio bajo el sol". Dios fue elevado con el trabajo de Cindi en las Iglesias de la Comunidad Metropolitana y siempre estaremos agradecidos por su servicio. Le aseguramos a ella nuestras oraciones por el éxito en todo lo que emprenda.

Gracia y Paz,

+Nancy

Rev. Nancy L. Wilson
oficina de la Moderadora de las
Iglesias de la Comunidad Metropolitana
www.MCCchurch.org

MCC Organizational, Leadership Changes announced for Metropolitan Community Church Denomination

A Pastoral Letter from
the Board of Elders of
Metropolitan Community Churches

_______________________________________________________

Hope-Filled Change In The Midst Of Paradox:
Adjusting Course For Future Ministry
"For I know the plans I have for you," says
God ... to give you a future with hope."
– Jeremiah 29:11
_____________________________________________________

One of the newer hymns of the church is entitled, "Change Your Church, O God." Change challenges us; it helps us grow; it positions us for new chapters in our lives and our ministries.

Change can also be daunting! Perhaps you have seen the Dilbert cartoon that says, "Change is easy! You go first."

The Board of Elders convened recently in Austin, Texas, and wrestled with how to share with you our deepest truth and our hearts during this time of great global change.

First, we are dealing with a paradox:

1) MCC is stronger, more stable and in greater health than ever in our history: attendance is steady or growing (CLICK HERE for information on church statistics), MCC’s global justice work is exploding, there is more interest and need for MCC’s ministry and message than ever before; MCC’s impact on human rights continues to grow; we have no significant debt as a denomination and we have significant investments (though challenged by recent economic events); more than any time in our history, clergy from other denominations are asking to become part of our ministry; and a new generation of activists is challenging and changing us.

2) At the same time that we have been called to do more, the current economic crisis has adversely affected our financial ability to support and fulfill our mission. Tithes to churches and to the denomination have not been as consistent nor as high as needed to support our current structure. As individuals, as churches and as the Fellowship, we have significantly less in financial resources to do the work we have been called to do. In recognition of the perilous state of the worldwide economy and the fact that we all must do more with less, the Board of Administration has asked us to reduce our budget by another $250,000 USD. This means we must make some big changes and decisions about how to accomplish MCC's unique calling in our world with fewer resources and without losing momentum or faith. We have a sense that just as some local churches who have struggled to break size barriers, MCC, as a whole, has struggled to overcome a "300 barrier" in the number of churches. As we respond to economic realities, we do not want to fall back into old patterns, or to return to a "better yesterday." We do not want to let fear throw us back to the early stages of the "Change Cycle." We want to find the healthy and right ways to organize ourselves to move forward for the next decades of ministry and believe that our faith and future are stronger than our current circumstances.

We have been confronting some of these issues for years; in a sense the current economy has pushed us to make choices that will "right size" our denominational leadership:

1) The Board of Elders will model the sacrifice needed to "right size" our denominational leadership. As of August 1, 2009, for the next 18 months, we will downsize the Board of Elders and will have four Regional Elders who will serve MCC's seven Regions. Here is how this will be achieved: The term of office for the Elder of Region 4 has been shortened. Rev. Elder Glenna Shepherd will end her term as Region 4 Elder at the end of July, 2009, and the Region 4 Elder position will be vacated. Rev. Elder Arlene Ackerman, after 17 years of continuous service to Metropolitan Community Churches in denominational leadership, will not run for another term. We will leave the Region 3 Elder position vacant at this time. There are no adequate words to thank Elder Glenna and Elder Arlene, both of whom will continue to serve our denomination and partner with the Board of Elders as we go forward. I also want to express my firm confidence in the four Elders who will lead us over the coming 18 months -- Rev. Elder Darlene Garner, Rev. Elder Diane Fisher, Rev. Elder Lillie Brock and Rev. Elder Ken Martin -- and to affirm their calling and ministry "for such a time as this." CLICK HERE to see an overview of the Elders new way of work.

2) All churches in all Regions will have Elder coverage for congregational care and connection, including the church’s connection to and relationship with MCC. The Elders will work through our new Regional Teams to help churches develop or maintain significant care and connection between leaders and congregations. We know this is a vitally important dimension of being part of MCC, and one that has been missing for some folks. To see the new model for Elder coverage, CLICK HERE.

3) In addition, the four Regional Elders will primarily work with churches according to the issues and needs created by congregation size. CLICK HERE for more information.

With the departure of our Executive Director (see letter below), we will continue to reconfigure our staffing and accountability structures. Again, Rev. Dr. Cindi Love has made an inestimable contribution to our denomination's life and health over the past more than four years, We know that she will continue to offer her gifts to and through MCC. In this interim period, the Board of Elders will work closely with the Board of Administration to assure a smooth transition and to carry out the administrative affairs of the denomination.

Here is what will be the same:

1. MCC's values, mission and vision for the future, our faith in the God who called us 40 years ago.

2. Every church will have an Elder that will serve their Region and oversee care, connection and judicatory functions.

3. Together, the Elders will provide spiritual leadership.

4. We will continue to plan for an exciting General Conference in Acapulco, Mexico, in 2010.

5. Our Structure Review Team will continue to do its work to bring proposals to the General Conference.

6. We will build on the excellent work of our Executive Director in financial accountability, in restructuring the staff, development of resources and customer service, and expansion of our mission.

7. We will continue to work in partnership with the MCC Board of Administration as we go through more transition, and continue to provide information with transparency and accountability.

8. We will continue to develop and work with an exciting, talented, passionate, committed MCC staff.

9. MCC will continue to be a denomination and a global movement. We will not disappear, dissolve into another denomination, or abandon our sacred calling!

10. We will continue to be on the edge of the connections between Jesus, justice and the LGBT/queer communities globally,

Here is what will change:

1. Every church will be served by the Elder covering your region, and by the Elder responsible for churches in your size grouping. We believe this will provide more concrete help and resources to every church, as we manage with a smaller Board of Elders focusing more precisely on your church’s needs.

2. At the same time, some expectations of Elders will have to be adjusted for the next 18 months, at least, as we ask for your patience and participation.

3. Our denominational operations will have to be adjusted, and "right sized" for our present resources, which means some projects and initiatives may have to be postponed or downsized, as we focus like a laser beam on priorities.

Here is what we promise you:

1. Timely, transparent, truthful information, as we go through changes.

2. Openness to your constructive feedback.

3. Cooperation with our Structure Review Team.

4. Boldness, creativity, and faithfulness on the part of MCC's leadership.

Here is what we need from you:

1. Constructive feedback to us and to the Structure Review Team
2. Participation in our Regional teams
3. Prayers and patience
4. The benefit of the doubt
5. Willingness to try doing things a new way

We are so grateful to so many of you who have committed your lives and resources to the ministry we share.

I know in my heart that God will be with us through every change, as we offer ourselves, in Christ's name, to "the least of these," who so desperately need us as we continue to "tear down walls and build up hope!"

+Nancy

Rev. Elder Nancy Wilson
Moderator
Metropolitan Community Churches
www.MCCchurch.org

Rev. Elder Ken Martin
Rev. Elder Arlene Ackerman
Rev. Elder Glenna Shepherd
Rev. Elder Diane Fisher
Rev. Elder Darlene Garner
Rev. Elder Lillie Brock


_______________________________

ADDITIONAL MESSAGE
from the Office of the Moderator
of Metropolitan Community Churches
_______________________________

April 30, 2009

Dear MCC Friends:

After more than four years as MCC's Executive Director, Rev. Dr. Cindi Love is leaving her position with Metropolitan Community Churches. Cindi will stay through May 27, 2009, to assist with a smooth transition of duties.

I will soon announce an interim appointment to keep our operations running smoothly.

In the meantime, Rev. Elder Darlene Garner has been appointed by the MCC Board of Administration, at my recommendation, to assist Cindi with the transition.

As the Scriptures say, "There is a time and season to every purpose under the sun." God raised up Cindi to serve Metropolitan Community Churches and we will be forever grateful for her service. She is assured of our prayers for success in all that she undertakes.

Grace and peace,

+Nancy

Rev. Nancy L. Wilson
Office of the Moderator
Metropolitan Community Churches
www.MCCchurch.org

Stop the Execution of Gay Iraqi Men

Public Statement & Action Alert from

Metropolitan Community Churches

www.MCCchurch.org . info@MCCchurch.net



MCC Moderator Calls for U.S. Government

Response to Recent Murders of Iraqi Gay Men

MCC's Wilson Calls on People of Goodwill Everywhere

to Speak Out on Behalf of Iraqi Gay Citizens



April 8, 2009

Remarks by

The Reverend Nancy L. Wilson

MCC Moderator


Last week, while Sweden announced plans to initiate marriage equality for its gay citizens, the states of Vermont and Iowa opened their civil marriage halls to gay and lesbian couples, and the District of Columbia proposed recognizing out-of-district marriages by gay couples, at least 20 boys and men suspected of being gay were murdered in Iraq. Some were executed by death squads, others by family members ashamed of the accusations against their sons and brothers.

The deaths of these men and boys represent a complex social phenomenon: the mixture of homophobia and religious bigotry, the importation of a campaign of torture and destruction from a neighboring nation, the result of poverty and living amidst the chaos of foreign invasion. Yet, none of those things can or must be allowed to justify the taking of human life.

The daily death rates in Iraq are high, often in the hundreds, because of the ongoing war. Though it may be difficult to fully comprehend the degree of escalation these executions represent in that context, the overall threat to freedom and equality, for which so many have given their lives, must not be skirted.

The reported executions of boys and men suspected of being gay are the result of campaigns of persecution and torture that deliberately target communities and families on the basis of perceived difference. The acceptance, tolerance and protection of difference is the basis of a free and just society and world order.

In March of this year, U.S. President Obama announced the United States would reverse its previous course and sign the United Nations Statement on “Human Rights, Sexual Orientation, and Gender Identity,” joining 66 other United Nations member states in condemning human rights violations based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

Robert Wood, Acting Department Spokesperson for the Bureau of Pubic Affairs at the U.S. Department of State said, “The United States is an outspoken defender of human rights and critic of human rights abuses around the world. As such ... we will continue to remind countries of the importance of respecting the human rights of all people...

The time has come for the world community to remind Iraq of the importance of respecting the human rights of its lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender citizens.

On April 1, 2009, U.S. President Obama announced a decision to again reverse course and seek a seat for the United States on the United Nations Human Rights Council.

Change is possible. It comes when people of goodwill honor their commitments to speak up for the importance of equally valuing and protecting all life.

Today, as Moderator of Metropolitan Community Churches, a movement of faith founded on the belief that diversity is the defining hallmark of the divine plan in this world, I call on the U.S. government and its leaders, especially the President, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and Members of the U.S. Congress, to be the voice of that “outspoken defender of human rights” around the world. I call upon the U.S. government to specifically, swiftly and strongly condemn the executions of gay people in Iraq, seeking the immediate assurance of Prime Minister Nuri Kamil al-Maliki and Minister of Human Rights Wajdan Mikhail Salam that the recent deaths will be investigated thoroughly and every measure taken to insure that this pogrom ceases.

Iraq, like all nations, must be safe for all its citizens. While many around the globe, as well as in Iraq itself, look to the day when Iraq will be a nation where people live freely and openly according to conscience, that day remains unimaginable for Iraq’s gay citizenry as long as fear, intimidation, violence and death remain constant threats.

The current U.S. President campaigned on the belief that none of us is free until all of us are free. Today I urge all who love freedom to contact President Obama and Secretary of State Clinton, demanding that they clearly and strongly denounce the latest executions of gay men in Iraq, and that they seek assurances from the Iraqi government that this persecution will end. The links below will help you do that.

St. Paul wrote that the joys of one are the joys of all; the sorrows of one, the sorrows of all. We are all the children of one God. Join me today in living from the power of that truth and acting for the well-being of our Iraqi sisters and brothers.

In faith and hope,

+Nancy

The Rev. Nancy L. Wilson

Office of the Moderator

Metropolitan Community Churches

WWW.MCCchurch.org



___________________________________



C O N T A C T I N F O R M A T I O N:



WRITE TO U.S. President Barack Obama at:

president@whitehouse.gov


WRITE TO U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton at:

Click Here: Send Email to Sec. of State Hillary Clinton



TO LOCATE THE EMAIL ADDRESSES of members of the U.S. Congress:

Visit http://www.visi.com/juan/congress/ and enter your zip code.:

Action Alert: Eastern Europe Situation

URGENT ACTION ALERT!
Tuesday . April 7, 2009
Afternoon Update! Breaking News!
Thanks to everyone who has written today to the Eastern European government of Moldova urging restraint during the public protests in the aftermath of yesterday's elections, and to all who have offered prayers for peace and justice in Moldova.
The situation has just taken another dangerous turn. The police and the army have now entered the square where peaceful demonstrations were taking place and have opened fire.
MCC’s Rev. Elder Diane Fisher is in regular communication with the Moldovan demonstrators. She reports that the police and army have opened fire on the protestors, which include many members of the LGBT community. Ambulances are on the scene. Protestors are being placed under arrest by the police and the military.
Please, please take the following urgent steps:
1. If you have not yet written to the Moldovan government, locate e-mail addresses below and write to them immediately. Demand that they allow peaceable freedom of assembly and freedom of speech for their citizens, and that the government show restraint in this situation. Remind them that the eyes of the world are focused on Moldova right now. If you have already written, please write again. It is urgent that the government of Moldova hear from tens of thousands of people who will speak out for peace and justice.
2. Continue to pray for the citizens of Moldova. Pray for the safety of the demonstrators who are taking a courageous stand for justice. Pray for restraint on the part of the police and army. Pray for peace.
3. Forward this Action Alert to as many people as possible as soon as possible.
Below you will find additional details and contact information.
Your voice is needed -- right now! -- to speak up and speak out for peace for our brothers and sisters in Moldova.
From: The Communications Department of Metropolitan Community Churches
Web: www.MCCchurch.org . E-mail: info@MCCchurch.net
P.S. You can view online photos from the events in Moldova at the following link: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=2164922&id=532536011#/photo.php?pid=2164922&id=532536011
______________________________________________________
FULL TEXT OF EARLIER ACTION ALERT with e-mail contacts:
Dear Friend:
I am urgently asking for your help.
Members of our faith community in Moldova are involved in a public action in response to yesterday’s Moldovan elections. The Communist Party was re-elected to its third term in office. Moldova has the only Communist Party parliament in Europe.
Reports and concerns have been raised about the validity of the election. Community members have taken to the streets in Moldova and the government is retaliating with violence against the demonstrators.
I have been in touch with Florin Buhuceanu, Eastern European Coordinator, and members of our community.
The violence is escalating – we have just received on-site reports of gunshots and explosions. The parliament is on fire with protestors inside The government has called in the army.
We have been asked to pray for the Moldovan government not to use violence as a way to resolve this protest.
We have been asked to contact our embassies to urge the Moldovan government to use peaceful means to handle this situation.
More information is available in this morning’s Washington Post http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/07/AR2009040700948.html
The links to Embassies and Consulates are listed below. Please contact the embassy. Tell them to protect the safety of their citizens. Tell them the world is watching.
/signed/
Rev. Diane Fisher, Elder (Bishop) for Region 5
Metropolitan Community Churches
Email: RevDianeFisher@MCCchurch.net . Cell: 617-448-2396 . Skype: revelderdiane

Coordinating MCC ministry in Region 5: Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Eastern Canada (Baffin Island, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec), Estonia, Georgia, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Czech Republic, Tajekestan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, United States (Connecticut, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, Ohio, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia), and Uzbekistan.
Coordinating MCC ministry in Region 2: United States (Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin).

The Republic of Moldova USA EMBASSY
2101 S Street, NW, Washington DC 20008
Telephone: (202) 667-1130/31/37: (202) 667-1204:
http://embassyrm.org/ USA
embassyofmoldova@mcihispeed.net

GREAT BRITIAN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
http://www.moldovanembassy.org.uk/index.php?language=eng
mail@moldovanembassy.org.uk

CANADA –The Romanian Embassy is also responsible for Moldova- There is a consulate in Toronto
Address, telephone, fax, email
1-3, Tuberozelor St.
011411, Bucharest , sector 1
Romania
Tel.: +40-21-307-5000
Fax: +40-21-307-5010
E-mail: bucst@international.gc.ca


Moldovan Embassy in Vienna, Austria

Embassy of Moldova in Vienna, Austria
Moldovan Embassy
Löwengasse 47/10
1030 Vienna
Austria
City: Vienna
Phone: (+43) 1 961.10.30
Fax: (+43) 1 961.10.30 - 34
Email: vienna@moldmission.at
Office Hours: 08.00 - 17.00
Description: Ambassador: Mrs. Natalia Gherman


Moldovan Embassy in Baku, Azerbaijan

Embassy of the Republica Moldova in the Republic of Azerbaijan
Moldovan Embassy
AZ1073
Baku
Husein Javid prospect
sector 520, ed. 12
City: Baku
Phone: (994-12) (+99412) 510 15 38
Fax: (994-12) (+99412) 403 52 91
Email: emb.moldova.baky@azdata.net



Moldovan Embassy in Minsk, Belarus

Embassy of Moldova in Minsk, Belarus
Moldovan Embassy
Belarusskaia, 2
Minsk
Belarus
City: Minsk
Phone: (+375) (172) 89.14.41, (+375) (172) 89.12.17
Fax: (+375) (172) 89.11.47
Email: emmdby@anitex.by
Description: Ambassador: Mr. Ilie Vancea


Moldovan Embassy in Brussels, Belgium

Embassy of Moldova in Brussels, Belgium
Moldovan Embassy
Rue Tenbosch 54
1050 Brussels
Belgium
City: Brussels
Phone: (+32) 2 732.93.00, (+32) 2 732.96.59
Fax: (+32) 2 732.96.60
Email: ambassademoldavie@brutele.be, bru@mfa.md
Office Hours: Embassy: 09:00 to 13:00, 13:00 to 18:00 Consular: 09:00 to 13:00
Description: Ambassador: Mr. Victor Gaiciuc


Moldovan Embassy in Sofia, Bulgaria

Embassy of Moldova in Sofia, Bulgaria
Moldovan Embassy
152, G.S. Rakovska Street
1142 Sofia
Bulgaria
City: Sofia
Phone: (+359) 2 935 60 11
Fax: (+359) 2 981.85.53
Email: ambasadamd@sofiasat.com
Description: Ambassador: Mr. Vasile Sturza


Moldovan Consulate in Toronto, Canada

Consulate of Moldova in Toronto, Canada
Moldovan Consulate
390 Bay Street, Suite 2800
Toronto
Ontario M5H 2Y2
Canada
City: Toronto
Phone: (+1) (416) 955-9175
Fax: (+1) (416) 955-9174
Email: moldovacon@aol.com
Description: Consul: Mr. Mendel M. Green


Moldovan Embassy in Beijing, China

Embassy of Moldova in Beijing, China
Moldovan Embassy
No. 2-9-1, Ta Yuan Office Building
Beijing
China
City: Beijing
Phone: (+86) (10) 6532 5494
Fax: (+86) (10) 6532 5379
Email: moldova@medw.link263.com
Description: Ambassador: Mr. Victor Borsevici


Moldovan Consulate in Limassol, Cyprus

Consulate of Moldova in Limassol, Cyprus
Moldovan Consulate
Stimfalidon Street
P.O.Box 52001
4060 Limassol
Cyprus
City: Limassol
Phone: (+357) 25 883512
Fax: (+357) 25 327995
Email: consulmda@yahoo.com
Office Hours: 08:30 13:30, 15:00 18:00
Description: Consul: Mr. Nicolis V. Nicolaides


Moldovan Embassy in Paris, France

Embassy of Moldova in Paris, France
Moldovan Embassy
1 Rue de Sfax, 16 arrondissement
Paris
France
City: Paris
Phone: (+33) 1.406.711.20
Fax: (+33) 1.406.711.23
Email: ambassadeur.moldavie@wanadoo.fr
Description: Ambassador: Mr. Andrei Neguta


Moldovan Embassy in Berlin, Germany

Embassy of Moldova in Berlin, Germany
Moldovan Embassy
Gotlandstrasse 16
10439 Berlin
Germany
City: Berlin
Phone: (+49) 30.446.529.70
Fax: (+49) 30.446.529.72
Web Site: http://www.botschaft-moldau.de
Email: office@botschaft-moldau.de
Description: Ambassador: Mr. Igor Corman


Moldovan Embassy in Athens, Greece

Embassy of Moldova in Athens, Greece
Moldovan Embassy
20, rue Georgiou Bacu
Filothei
11524, Athens
Greece
City: Athens
Phone: (+30) 210 699 03 72, (+30) 210 699 06 65
Fax: (+30) 210 699 03 71
Email: ermhr@otenet.gr
Description: Ambassador: Mr. Ion URSU


Moldovan Embassy in Budapest, Hungary

Embassy of Moldova in Budapest, Hungary
Moldovan Embassy
Budafoki ut.9-11
1111 Budapest
Hungary
City: Budapest
Phone: (+36) 1 209.11.91
Fax: (+36) 1 209.11.95
Email: armrung@hu.inter.net, armrung@elender.mail.hu
Description: Ambassador: Mr. Mihai Laur


Moldovan Embassy in Tel Aviv, Israel

Embassy of Moldova in Tel Aviv, Israel
Moldovan Embassy
Rembrandt, 38
Tel Aviv, 64045
Israel
City: Tel Aviv
Phone: (+972) 3 523 10 00
Fax: (+972) 3 523 30 00
Email: moldova@barak.net.il, moldova@netvision.net.il
Description: Ambassador: Mr. Artur Cozma


Moldovan Embassy in Rome, Italy

Embassy of Moldova in Rome, Italy
Moldovan Embassy
Via Monte Bello, 8
Roma
Italy
City: Rome
Phone: (+39) 06.474.02.10
Fax: (+39) 06.478.81.092
Web Site: http://www.ambasada.it
Email: ada.mol.@flashnet.it, info@ambasada.it
Description: Ambassador: Mr. Nicolae Dudau


Moldovan Embassy in Riga, Latvia

Embassy of Moldova in Riga, Latvia
Moldovan Embassy
Basteja bulvaris 14
Riga 1050
Latvia
City: Riga
Phone: (+371) 735 91 60
Fax: (+371) 735 91 65
Email: riga@moldovaembassy.lv
Office Hours: 09:00 - 13:00, 14:00 - 18:00



Moldovan Embassy in Warsaw, Poland

Embassy of Moldova in Warsaw, Poland
Moldovan Embassy
ul. ImieliDska 1
02-710 Warszawa
Poland
City: Warsaw
Phone: (+48) 22.646.20.99
Fax: (+48) 22.646.20.99
Web Site: http://www.moldova.pl
Email: embassy@moldova.pl, varsovia@mfa.md
Office Hours: 08.00-17.00 Description: Diplomatic Personnel: Mr. Boris GAMURARI - Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Moldova to the Republic of Poland / Mrs. Gabriela MORARU - Counsellor (political affairs) / Mr. Gheorghe SOLTAN - Counsellor (economic affairs) / Mr. Andrian POPESCU - Third secretary, responsible for consular affairs.


Moldovan Embassy in Bucharest, Romania

Embassy of Moldova in Bucharest, Romania send edits
Moldovan Embassy
Aleea Alexandru nr.40
Sector 1
712 731 Bucharest
Romania
City: Bucharest
Phone: (+40) (21) 230.04.74, (+40) (21) 230.07.32
Fax: (+40) (21) 230.77.90
Email: moldova@customers.digiro.net, ambasadamoldova@zappmobile.ro
Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8.00-17.00
Description: Ambassador: Mr. Victor Zlacevski


Moldovan Embassy in Moscow, Russia

Embassy of Moldova in Moscow, Russia send edits
Moldovan Embassy
Kuznetskii Most, 18
Moscow
Russia
City: Moscow
Phone: (+7) 495.924.53.53, (+7) 495.924.63.42
Fax: (+7) 495.924.95.90
Web Site: http://www.moldembassy.ru
Email: info@moldembassy.ru
Description: Ambassador: Mr. Vladimir Turcan


Moldovan Consulate in Madrid, Spain

Consulate of Moldova in Madrid, Spain send edits
Moldovan Consulate
C/ San Pedro Nº5
28043 Madrid
Spain
City: Madrid
Phone: (+34) 91 388 48 33
Fax: (+34) 91 429 33 18 Description: Consul: Mr Carlos Portel Camacho

Moldovan Consulate in Barcelona, Spain

Consulate of Moldova in Barcelona, Spain send edits
Moldovan Consulate
C/ Muntaner 465 1º-1ª.- C.P.
08021 Barcelona
Spain
City: Barcelona
Phone: (+34) 93 414 77 00
Fax: (+34) 93 202 39 88 Description: Consul: Mr Pedro Luis Poch de Robert


Moldovan Embassy in Stockholm, Sweden

Embassy of the Republic of Moldova in Sweden send edits
Moldovan Embassy
Stockholm, str. Engelbrektsgatan nr.10
City: Stockholm
Phone: (46) (+ 46 8) 411 4064
Fax: (46) (+ 46 8) 411 4074
Email: stockholm@mfa.md
Description: Ambassador: Mrs. Natalia GHERMAN

Moldovan Consulate in Geneva, Switzerland

Consulate General of Moldova in Geneva, Switzerland send edits
Moldovan Consulate General
Chemin du Petit-Saconnex 28
1209 Genève
Switzerland
City: Geneva
Phone: (+41) 22 733 91 03
Fax: (+41) 22 733 91 04
Email: mission.moldova@ties.itu.int
Description: General Consul: Dumitru Croitor


Moldovan Embassy in Ankara, Turkey

Embassy of Moldova in Ankara, Turkey
Moldovan Embassy
Kaptanpasha Soc., 49
Ankara
Turkey
City: Ankara
Phone: (+90) 312.446.55.27
Fax: (+90) 312.446.58.16
Email: ambmold@superonline.com
Description: Ambassador: Mr. Victor Tvircun


Moldovan Embassy in Kiev, Ukraine

Embassy of Moldova in Kiev, Ukraine
Moldovan Embassy
Sichnevoho Povstannia St., 6
Kyiv 01010
Ukraine
City: Kiev
Phone: (+380) 44.290.77.22
Fax: (+380) 44.290.77.22
Email: moldoukr@sovamua.com
Office Hours: 09:00-13:00 14:00-18:00 Description: Ambassador: Mr. Nicolae Cernomaz

Moldovan Consulate in London, United Kingdom

Embassy of Moldova in London, United Kingdom
Moldovan Embassy
5 Dolphin Square
Edensor Road
Chiswick, London, W4 2ST
United Kingdom
City: London
Phone: (+44) 208 995 6818
Fax: (+44) 208 995 6927
Web Site: http://www.moldovanembassy.org.uk
Email: mail@moldovanembassy.org.uk
Office Hours: Monday - Friday 09:00 - 13:00; 14:00 - 18:00


Moldovan Embassy in Washington DC, United States

Embassy of Moldova in Washington, United States
Moldovan Embassy
2101 S Street NW
Washington D.C. 20008
United States
City: Washington DC
Phone: (+1) 202.667.11.30 / 31 / 37
Fax: (+1) 202.667.12.04
Web Site: http://www.turism.md/eng/embassy/17
Email: embassyofmoldova@mcihispeed.net
Description: Ambassador: Mr. Mihail Manoli


Moldovan Embassy in Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Embassy of Moldova in Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Moldovan Embassy
Ulukbek district
Mahatma Ghandi St., 1st passage, bl. 39
Tashkent
Uzbekistan
City: Tashkent
Phone: (+998) 71 1332666, 1361866
Fax: (+998) 71 1372105
Email: moldova@sarkor.uz