The Rev. Gregory Dell and his wife, Jade, at the Center on Halsted gala. Photo by Tracy Baim
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The Rev. Gregory Dell, pastor of Lakeview’s Broadway United Methodist Church, has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, according to the Chicago Tribune.
In fact, the disease has apparently progressed to the point where Dell—known for his outspoken support of gay rights—is retiring because he can no longer lead services.
Dell is widely known for his activism. In 1999, the United Methodist Church convicted him of violating a rule regarding the blessing of same-sex unions; he was eventually suspended for one year and returned in 2000.
The church (located at 3344 N. Broadway) is having a farewell event for him on Sat., June 16, 4-7 p.m., with special presentations at 5:30 p.m. (Also, a memory book is being put together. Those who wish to send brief messages can e-mail Associate Pastor Vernice Thorn at vernice@brdwyumc.org.)