A delegation of Chicago-area religious and community leaders went to New York City for a Nov. 18 national meeting of a movement called Mobilization 2004. The meeting, called by Manhattan’s Riverside Church, united interfaith leaders who want to counter right-wing political fundamentalism. In a press release, Mobilization 2004 organizers praised ‘the Windy City’s long history of religious activism in the cause of justice, equality and peace.’
The contingent that went from Chicago was varied. Among the attendees were Rev. Melissa Hood, pastor of Hazel Crest Community United Methodist Church; Rev. Gregory Dell, pastor of Broadway United Methodist Church; and T.J. Williams, an openly gay singer who specializes in contemporary gospel music.
In other church-related news, the Rainbow Sash Movement has urged the National Council of Catholic Bishops to not be homophobic. The group issued its latest press release in response to the Rainbow Sash Movement being denied communion at the Bishops Plenary Liturgy in the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. The organization’s plea reads, in part: ‘While the events of this past week were deeply painful, we care for our bishops, and pray the Lord will give them renewed sight to see [GLBT individuals] as human beings, with dignity and rights.’
Chicago has had its own situation involving the movement. In May, Cardinal Francis George sent a memo to all the Chicago pastors letting them know that gays wearing the rainbow sash were to be refused the Eucharist. Subsequently, about 10 members of the Rainbow Sash movement were denied communion at Chicago’s Holy Name Cathedral.
See www.rainbowsashmovement.com.