Beloved:
We wish that we were writing you a different letter. A letter filled with joy and affirmation and triumph. A letter that would be able to let you know that legislators, leaders and other adults joined together in unity to acknowledge in love and action, who God created you to be. A letter that let you know that the entire world was with you.
But, while we are working to build it, we don’t live in that kind of world right now. We are living in times of heightened discussion and very harsh rhetoric surrounding gender identity. We feel called to offer a clear message of divine love, action, unwavering welcome, and deep commitment to our transgender children and their parents.
We see you, we celebrate you, and we affirm that you are wonderfully made in God’s image. You are not a problem to be solved, but a precious gift to be cherished. Yours is a journey of discovering who you are is sacred, and we want you to know that you are safe, seen, and deeply loved within this community. You don’t have to fight to be you; you just need to be the fullest, most authentic version of yourself you can be, and we will fight for your right to do just that.
Parents, we know this journey brings unique challenges, fears, and a profound sense of responsibility. God has entrusted you with the sacred task of nurturing your child. We affirm that supporting your child’s gender identity is an act of love, faithfulness, and stewardship, aligning with our core values of compassion and care for the vulnerable. You are not alone. We are here to walk with you, offering prayer, support, and resources as you seek the best care for your child, honoring their God-given identity.
We stand with you against policies that threaten your dignity and access to necessary care, viewing such actions as contrary to Christian love. Sherman Church is a place where all are welcome, not in spite of who they are, but because of who God made them to be, and we commit to being a visible witness to God’s expansive love, ensuring everyone has a home in God’s creation.
May you feel God’s boundless love surrounding you, giving you strength, peace, and the courage to live authentically.
With God’s Grace and Love,
Rev. David
