A Love Letter from Rev. Lorraine Ceniceros and the Kansas-Oklahoma Conference of the United Church of Christ

Dear Transgender and LGBTQ+ siblings, 

I know it is scary and often dangerous for you to live into your authentic self. Please don’t believe the societal messages that want you, and others around you, to believe you are damaged. Please don’t believe the rhetoric that tells you unless you conform to people’s narrow view of gender and sexuality you don’t have worth, just as you are.  

If no one in your life has affirmed your worth, please hear me now, you are beautiful in the before, in the process of, and when you fully embody your authentic self. You are loved. You have worth. You don’t have to feel alone.  

The Open and Affirming resolution of the Kansas Oklahoma Conference reminds us; Jesus teaches us to love one another (John 15:12), and Paul teaches us to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:14). If one member suffers, all suffer together. (1 Corinthians 12:26-27.) 

We love you. When called upon, we will speak out with you, and we will walk alongside you on your journey of wholeness and acceptance.  

With love, 

Rev. Lorraine Ceniceros