From Mere Welcome to True Belonging at Covenant Conversation: Nebraska

On August 26 at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Lincoln, NE, participants worshipped and learned together about how to renew our commitments to witnessing to God's love for the whole world, especially our LGBTQIA+ neighbors.

After an opening service of prayer, the plenary panel discussion featured authentic LGBTQIA+ voices speaking to experiences of welcome and belonging. The Rev. Brian Ellison, Executive Director of the Covenant Network of Presbyterians, moderated the discussion with Amy Cerniglia, CNP Communications Coordinator; Biannah Peji-Palm, member of Presbyterian Church of the Master, Omaha; the Rev. Doodle Harris, chaplain at Hastings College; and Sarah Phelps, director of outreach and programs at Out Nebraska. Brian Ellison said, "The actions behind our words help our churches move from places of mere welcome to true belonging.”A variety of workshops highlighted the day’s theme: “From Mere Welcome to True Belonging.”

The Rev. Robert Keefer guided participants through theological and Biblical reflection about LGBTQIA+ issues, while Dr. Amanda Boyd and the Rev. Doodle Harris offered practical advice for everyday advocacy. Another workshop with local community organizers Emily Killham and Sarah Phelps explored recent legislation targeting LGBTQIA+ people, especially for transgender children and their families in Nebraska. 

See our full events page here for resources from Covenant Conversation: Nebraska, including:

What Can I Say?: Theological and Biblical Reflection about LGBTQIA+ issues with the Rev. Robert Keefer

Bearing Faithful Witness – Advocating and Caring for Those affected by Negative Legislative Outcomes with Emily Killham and Sarah Phelps

Poem from Opening Prayer: Please Come Home

Song from Closing Worship: All Belong Here

At the end of the day, we regathered for closing worship with prayers, music and liturgy. Expansive language and hopeful messages encouraged worshippers to claim their identities as children of God. A sermon by the Rev. Lauren Peters inspired participants to follow the example of Jesus, who boldly pursued justice and righteousness against the warnings of local religious authorities. 

We're so grateful to all the leaders and volunteers at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Lincoln, and many planning team members from the surrounding area, who generously hosted and supported this important conversation. On our events page, you can learn more about upcoming Covenant Conversations in Chicago and Delaware.