If you really believe the Christian gospel -- God behind us, his cause committed to us, his power available for us -- then proclaim it, live it, implement it, for humanity's hope depends upon it.

Harry Emerson Fosdick, "A Faith For Tough Times"

When I first started this magazine the letters of criticism I received used to wound me deeply. Here I was, a Christian, fully believing the Gospel message and proclaiming it, only to be shouted down by someone else who believed they had the right to condemn me to hell for my beliefs.

My skin has grown thicker over time. I still get letters of critcism like this one that arrived just the other day: "Gay people [should] realise their mistakes and repent or just shut-up." A couple of years ago that would have really stung. Now, I read that sentence and see a different message, but probably not what the writer intended. With a careful reading of that sentence I suppose I would have to agree. Gay people, like all people, make mistakes ... and yes, we should certainly repent of those mistakes. But, so should straight, bi and transgendered people.

Yes, I know, this is not his point. His point is that we should "repent" of our sexuality .. which is a laughable thing. How does one repent of a God-given thing? It's like repenting for being left handed, or blue-eyed. It can't be done, since there is nothing to repent for, no transgression to admit.

His other request is that we shut up. Just as I cannot repent for my sexuality, I am equally unable to stop speaking about my faith. I agree with Mr. Fosdick. I believe the Christian gospel ... therefore I will not shut up. I will proclaim it, live it and implement it. By doing so ... and giving others the forum to do the same ... I have received thousands of letters from people who have had their hope restored. I have seen the power of proclaiming the gospel ... GLBT Christians have seen hope return to their lives.

May God forgive me for my mistakes ... and may God continue to give me the voice to keep proclaiming, living and implementing the gospel for the sake of humanity's hope.

Blessings,
Candace