Hi! Let’s talk about the very clear distinction between churches that *welcome* LGBTQ people and churches that *affirm* LGBTQ people. https://www.gaystarnews.com/article/chris-pratt-defends-anti-lgbti-church

Chris Pratt claims Hillsong Church “opens their doors to absolutely everyone.” And that is true! You will not be physically barred from entering the doors and attending a service. That’s what I call “welcoming.”

You’re welcome to attend (and welcome to give them money). It’s how most churches treat LGBTQ people — but it’s a pretty low bar, wouldn’t you say?

Let’s talk about the things LGBTQ people cannot do at a “welcoming” church:

-get married

-be hired for any paying position

-maintain any paying position after coming out (MANY LGBTQ people have been immediately fired from Hillsong & many other churches that “welcome”)

-be hired for any unpaid position! (I was once told to leave in the middle of an interview for an unpaid internship because I mentioned I had a boyfriend)

-talk about their dating life without being discouraged and/or reprimanded

-look after children

-lead a Bible study

-be in leadership in any capacity

-be onstage in any capacity

So yeah, Chris, we’ll be allowed to walk through the doors of Hillsong and not be asked to leave. Great. But we’ll never be full members.

I’ve encountered a lot of people who’ve said similar things about their churches, who think that just because LGBTQ people aren’t literally thrown out that they’re treated the same as straight cisgender people. And I’ve had my heart broken by so many churches as a result.

If you’re interested to know what your church’s policies about LGBTQ people are, visit http://churchclarity.com