To the editor:
Every Christian church in Aroostook County believes itself to be friendly and yet, alarmingly, that is not the experience of many folks who do not even come to the door. Worse, some try it and obliquely or in so many words are invited not to come again! And yet we worship a God who took people’s breath away (and wound up crucified) because He chose a vulnerable, loving presence among us as the Way to reveal Truth. We worship a God who breathes new life into those who have suffered and those who have been excluded. Jesus did not just risk, bleed and die for us; Jesus rose from the dead to prove NOTHING is impossible with the power-filled love of God. At United Parish Church in Fort Fairfield, we know we are not the only safe church in Aroostook County, but we want to speak up and let EVERYONE know that we are one safe church.
Our church body has a number of persons living with developmental disabilities, including a young man with severe autism and his family. They were actually asked to leave another church. We are blessed to learn and grow beside them. Also, as is always true, but sometimes unspoken, all of us are friends and family of folks who are gay and lesbian. Heterosexual or homosexual, we are blessed through journeying together.
Our church is committed to raising up-standers rather than bystanders. We want to end bullying in our homes, our schools and our community. We want each person to know themselves beloved of God. We are alarmingly imperfect ourselves, but we are growing through the Grace of God to share one another’s struggles and joys. Christ reminds us that we are loved, not regardless, but with the deepest regard possible! Experiencing God’s call to grow together takes a lot of work, persistence, and a sense of humor so there is a place for everyone!
Rev. Dr. Diane Langworthy
United Parish Church
Fort Fairfield
