The history of the church's acceptance of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender members and friends is
relatively recent. Precious little is documented from the early days of our church regarding gay issues. Until
1969, they were rarely discussed. We do know that there were gay members and staff members in the church from John Cummins' time forward.
Some of the earliest notes regarding a proactive stance for gay issues are from April 1986, when meetings were held in response to the growing AIDS crisis in Minnesota. Among those meeting were Sharon Bishop, Karen Bruce, John DeMars, Carol Hobart, and Gail Thiele. In October of that year a draft resolution was proposed that included a focus on education, civil liberties, and support of those living with HIV, their families and loved ones. On January 14, 1987, the Board of Trustees approved it.
The church was involved in a host of activities including educating the congregation regarding HIV,discussing safe sex, providing meeting space for two HIV support groups, and conversations on gay issues. First Wednesdays were services organized for those living with AIDS or affected by the disease. Notable was our participation with the AIDS Interfaith Council of Minnesota. Educational articles began appearing in the Liberal in 1989, and education of the youth was firmly in place by early 1990.
