September 28, 2025

Pride in the Pew

Congregation like ours, often hear about the challenges that the Black church faces when engaging in radical inclusivity towards queer and trans people. From queer folk being rejected from ministry to the denial of officating queer wedding ceremonies, the Black church has sought to maintain social respectablity politic that has protected them from white ostracization. This Sunday take the opportunity to talk about how Fountain Baptist and Beacon UU have been dedicated to creating a counter-narrative, renewing love and engaging skills of unlearning bad-theology that empowers our belief practice to center-love. Join Rev. Dr. Jé Exodus Hooper of Beacon UU, along with Dr. Angelina Clifton, and Rev. Vernon Williams of Fountain Baptiast as they share their journey with creating Pride in the Pew.

Order of Service

Prelude: John O’Neill

Welcome: Missy Rogers, Worship Associate

Chalice Lighting: Jamaine Cripe, Lifespan Coordinator

Opening Music: Call Down a Blessing by Margaret Nelson by Misa Iwama, Director of Music Ministry, John O’Neill, The Beacon Choir

Hymn #389 Gathered Here

Time for All Ages/Reading: Rev. Jé Hooper, Assistant Minister

Candle Lighting: Dan Llanes (9:30) & Adam Gonnerman (11am), Chaplains

I Choose Love by Mark Miller

Sermonic Reflection

Hymn: #34 Though I May Speak with Bravest Fire (The Gift of Love)

Testimony: Missy Rogers, Worship Associate

Offertory Music: Draw the Circle Wide by Mark Miller; Beacon Choir, Misa Iwama, John O’Neill

Sermon: Pride and the Pew (Dr. Angelita Clifton, Rev. Vernon Williams)

Closing Music: #126 Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing

Benediction: Rev. Dr. Jé Exodus Hooper

Postlude