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Scripture “Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept.”- Matthew 5.14-16
A Word of Hope
As a Youth advocate and Minister I do everything in my power for our Youth to be comfortable, safe and secure behind the walls of the Cathedral of Hope. We have created an environment where our youth can come and be themselves. We have empowered them to believe in the ultimate love of God in their lives.
Unfortunately many young people out there have not heard the good news. Rev. Christopher Rodkey, once stated in a youth ministry conference that our youth are spirituality homeless. I have personally witnessed youth who fear entering a church. The experiences many students have had unfortunately have been of condemnation, ridicule, mistrust, and in some cases reparative therapy.
Students are constantly trying to find their place is in this world. But in this world there are conservative and fanatical individuals who are unapologetically labeling, condemning our young friends to hell. Sadly their message is affecting many of them. How do we get the message of HOPE to our young friends? How can we tell them that they are not invisible, that they are not alone and that there is a place that welcomes them with open arms?
Simple; we go outside the walls of Cathedral with a message of hope. On Friday June 20th, Cathedral of Hope Youth hosted a Prom for all LGBTQ and Allies students in the Dallas area. We reached out through numerous organizations, and through social media inviting students to join us for this event.
We opened our doors for all students to come with their desired date to enjoy an authentic Prom night. We provided a safe space for students to come in before the dance to get ready and offered them make up, and hair stylist services free of charge. We take seriously the message that we are the light of the world and we shine in something as simple as a dance. We are open and welcoming to every youth out there regardless of their sexual orientation or gender expression.
So I encourage you be a shining example for our youth; to light the way by living your life authentically, and unapologetically, sharing and reclaiming God’s unconditional love to all. You can also pray for our Youth Ministry, our leaders and the students who will come through our doors on occasions such as the prom and the many other opportunities we make available to these wonderful individuals who feel otherwise lost and disenfranchised.
Prayer God, may you help us reach our friends who might feel invisible with our light, our message of Hope and your unconditional love and acceptance.