Everyone

I renounce the spiritual forces of wickedness,
reject the evil powers of this world,
and I repent of my sin.
I accept the freedom and power God gives me
to resist evil, injustice, and oppression
in whatever forms they present themselves.
I confess Jesus Christ as my Savior,
put my whole trust in his grace,
And I promise to serve him as my Lord,
in union with the Church which Christ has opened
to people of all ages, nations, and races. (United Methodist Baptismal vow inspired, borrowed and adapted)

I confess that far too often I have been complicit, explicit, and silent in the many ways the United Methodist Church has marginalized the undocumented, the poor, the naked and our Lesbian, Gay, Transgender, Intersex, and Questioning siblings And so many others that are unseen, unheard and told they are not of sacred value. 
I confess that often I wait for my turn to speak instead of listening with my head and my heart to the sacred persons around me.
I confess I am unaware of the privilege that my life has afforded me and often chose not to care for those whom Jesus calls me too.
I confess that I often believe my beliefs are right and everyone else are “those people”.
I confess that I preach patience, when called into action. 
I confess that I move into action, when I’m called to listen.
I confess that my faith is often rooted in my actions rather than the real possibility that God is more than able to be and do exactly what our world needs with or without me. 

I’m tired, my body is weak. But my spirit is stronger than ever in the Holy One that is more than able. 

To my sibilings who are Gay, Lesbian, Transgender, Intersex, Question+. I’m sorry for all that we as a Church continue to do. I am with you. You are beloved. We are better because of you and not in spite of you.