Press Release from The Community of Welcoming Congregations
Songs of Faith & Freedom II
October 18, 7:00 pm Congregation Neveh Shalom, Portland
(GRESHAM, OREGON) – Portland composer/director Dr. David York will bring multiple artistic talents to a concert to benefit The Community of Welcoming Congregations. Portland Gay Men’s Chorus, local congregational choirs including Ainsworth United Church of Christ, First Unitarian Church, three local Centers for Spiritual Living, Metropolitan Community Church, and individuals will participate in the event to be held at Congregation Neveh Shalom, 2900 SW Peaceful Lane, Portland.
Titled, “Songs of Faith & Freedom II,” the benefit concert will build on last year’s hugely successful event held in Portland’s Trinity Episcopal Cathedral.
“Music is the universal language of love and hope”, said Rev. Tara Wilkins, CWC’s Executive Director. The Community of Welcoming Congregations is an Oregon and SW Washington interfaith ministry that dedicates itself to the full inclusion and equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning people. With 98 active congregations throughout the state, CWC celebrates the diversity of creation by bringing together top religious musicians to offer their inspirational voices to raise support and awareness for their ministry.
Last year CWC organized religious leaders supporting the Oregon Equality Act (SB 2) and the Family Fairness Act (HB 2007), which were passed by the legislature and signed into law by Governor Kulongoski. “Many clergy and congregational leaders support gay and lesbian equality”, said Wilkins. “For us it is a matter of faith and justice to celebrate the gifts of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons and the contributions they make to our congregations.”
The proceeds for this event will go toward the ongoing work of CWC, which will include building community coalitions, sponsoring a youth camp, hosting an interfaith transgender conference, mentoring congregations seeking to be inclusive and providing outreach to those seeking spiritual homes.
NOTE: Parkrose Community United Church of Christ, the congregation I pastor, is a member of The Community of Welcoming Congregations.
