Honor the past, reflect on the present, and commit to future advocacy at a multi-faith event on National Coming Out Day at Elmhurst University. The special event “Out and Faithful:  A Multi-Faith Celebration of LGBTQIA+ Spirituality and a Call to Advocacy” will take place on Tuesday, October 11, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel, located at 190 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst, IL.

“Out and Faithful” is jointly presented by the Illinois Conference of the United Church of Christ, Elmhurst University, and Community Renewal Society. Fifty years ago, Elmhurst alumnus, Rev. William R. Johnson ‘68, was the first openly gay person ordained in a mainline Protestant denomination (The United Church of Christ). We will celebrate and honor Rev. Johnson and give thanks for all who have contributed to the advancement of LGBTQIA+ justice work within religious communities, and who continue to pave the way forward.

A diverse panel of speakers from Chicago and its suburbs will lead a stimulating dialogue focused on the intersections of spirituality and sexuality/gender. Panelists include Rev. Shawna Bowman of Friendship Presbyterian Church (Chicago), Rabbi Andrea Cosnowsky of Congregation Etz Chaim (Lombard), Rev. Dr. Eddie Journey of Second Baptist Church (Evanston), Rev. Dr. Pamela Lightsey of Meadville Lombard Seminary (Chicago), and Rev. Dr. Marilyn Pagán-Banks of San Lucas UCC (Chicago).

In addition to the panel presentation, the program will include liturgies to celebrate and affirm LGBTQIA+ persons and spirituality, to confess and name the places we have failed or fallen short, and to recommit ourselves as people of faith to the work ahead. Both the event and parking are free and open to all. Parking is available on Alexander Blvd. (north of the football field and Hammerschmidt Chapel). Drivers with disabilities are encouraged to use the limited parking spaces near the Chapel on the north side.