I made sure I flinched when anyone used even a hint of a curse word because proper clergy should always do that and Proverbs says, “A word fitly spoken. . .” I was, in truth, a cosmetic Christian.

In the beginning, that discomfort was awkward, but by the end of the conference, I had come to understand that unless and until I became uncomfortable with my white privilege, I would never change.  And change, I came to realize, was something I desperately needed.

The truth is, there’s a much better way to deal with securing a solid base of sex education for our kids and grandkids.  Spokane schools have a golden opportunity of adopting a remarkable curriculum called “Get Real.”

The reality is that it isn’t cute, or appropriate, or sensitive or Christian. It is, however, indicative of the white male dominance of an entire denomination that once focused on mission and ministry.

The role of women in the church is one of evolution and change. It should give all of us reason to celebrate when women are recognized as leaders in local congregations and denominations.

There underneath the name of the church in letters even larger than the church’s name were the words, “Everyone welcome.” It struck me as odd that a congregation would display that phrase since I know both the minister and the church’s lack of inclusion, and I am sure that invitation might not actually be true.