surprised and moved
i went to a reading of "the laramie project" at shandon presbyterian church last night.

it was spectacularly well-done, even more so considering the fact that they have almost nothing in terms of stagecraft, lighting, or space. it went for a full two-and-a-half hours, and people were in tears by the time it was over.

what was like a hand around my heart was this: the audience was full of older, conservative-looking people i would have sworn were anti-gay if i saw them on the street - but by the time we got to the panel discussion and Q-and-A period, i knew i was mistaken. these people were open-minded, open-hearted, compassionate, and honestly wanting to learn more about homosexuality and tolerance. the pastor was the same.

i think i've found a church there, though i will continue to visit the greek orthodox parish. the breeks will never have me heart and soul; they can't - because while they want me, they don't want me how i am. i just got the monthly bulletin from holy trinity, which included a full-page statement from the bishop saying that the church cannot and will not bless same-sex marriages. ever. no discussion. homosexuality is equivalent to fornication and adultery and there will be no re-consideration of this position.

and thus, the presbyterians fill another pew.