New Studies Out on LGBT Issues and Progressive Congregations

New studies demonstrate how welcoming LGBT people makes a difference to progressive religious congregations. Two surveys were conducted by Religious Institute of Morality, Justice, and Healing and Institute for Welcoming Resources, and they found:

"Congregations that have undertaken formalized efforts to welcome lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) members are more active in social justice, more comfortable addressing sexuality issues and less concerned that LGBT advocacy will reduce membership, according to two national surveys released today." (Religion News Service)

These surveys acknowledge a few important points, but the one that most impresses me is that those congregations which advocate for LGBT issues are much more likely to become involved in other social issues like economic injustice, homelessness, racial inequality, immigration, and so on.

Unity has always advocated for LGBT equality and justice, especially within its own walls, ordaining ministers regardless of sexual orientation and maintaining a welcoming attitude and inclusive metaphysical system of belief and practice. The survey did mention that issues of sexual identity (especially in youth populations) was generally considered under addressed and that even progressive congregations would benefit from more educational resources available to members of their community.

Though Unity does have a stellar record of being open and affirming of any and every sexual orientation, I think it could certainly take heed to this study and perhaps faciliate more educational workshops, literature, etc. about LGBT issues in society, both at the national and local levels. I'm aware that many Unity communities do have discussion groups about these topics, but a more universal and Association-wide advocacy in this capacity would serve the cause well and further establish Unity's position among progressive, welcoming religious communities. Nonetheless, Unity has been most definitely in the forefront in setting a magnificent example of what inclusive congregations can be with open hearts and open minds.

The Religion News Service has a more detailed overview of the studies.