We Will Overcome

This week’s sermon took a unique and deeply personal turn, transforming into a powerful, 100% volunteer-based platform for church members to share their individual stories. Titled “We Will Overcome,” the session was guided by two central questions posed by the Pastor Dan.

First, participants were invited to share what they were comfortable disclosing about any harm they had experienced from people of faith, those labeling themselves as Christians, religious leaders, or churches. A specific aim was to highlight as many LGBTQ+ voices as possible, particularly during Pride Month, to help people see individuals beyond labels and recognize the personal stories, pains, fears, and moments of overcoming.

The second question prompted speakers to share what they wanted people to know about them as unique individuals, not categories—including their thoughts, feelings, hopes, and dreams. This format was designed to encourage the community to continue seeing people for who they are, their stories, and their struggles, likening it to the “word of our testimony” through which people overcome.

Throughout the session, church members shared candid experiences of judgment, exclusion, and misrepresentation within faith communities. They spoke of being dismissed, excommunicated, or told to “fix” their identity due to their sexuality or for challenging established norms. Despite these challenges, many expressed gratitude for finding a welcoming and safe community within the current church, which has helped them reconnect with God, find healing, and embrace their authentic selves. The overall message underscored that God is love and that true Christian faith should embody love, kindness, and acceptance, not condemnation or rejection.