Our Story
Bakos Project was born out of a deep desire to see young Christian LGBTQ leaders thrive in their faith and spiritual gifts. While the Church has expended significant energy on the theological debate concerning sexuality and gender, much less attention has been given to the tremendous contributions that LGBTQ Christians can make to the Church and society.
Bakos Project is a theologically orthodox and affirming organization that mentors and spiritually nurtures LGBTQ Christians in their 20s and 30s who demonstrate a commitment to Christ and exhibit leadership qualities. The name “Bakos,” honors the contribution of the Ethiopian eunuch to the global Church.
Are you an LGBTQ Christian?
We are looking for LGBTQ Christians with the following characteristics:
- Ages 22 through 39
- Deep love of Christ, high regard of Scripture, and desire to serve God (either in a ministry role or in the public/community sphere)
- Involved in a local church (or eagerly desire to be)
- Theologically affirming (e.g. marriage for gay couples)
- Demonstrated leadership qualities
- Desire to receive mentoring to grow in faith and active use of God-given spiritual gifts
What we offer:
- Weekend retreat (one for new members and one for alum; intimate with about 10-12 participants at each retreat. The newcomer retreat is subsidized for food and lodging and the optional alum retreat is at cost to keep fees low).
- Monthly cohort connection (via Zoom)
- Day gathering at the CenterPeace Conference
- E-newsletter and blog (with opportunities to contribute to both)
- Networking with other young Christian LGBTQ leaders
- Networking with affirming pastors and other affirming Christian leaders
- Access to resources (e.g. articles, videos)
Our Mission
Mentoring and spiritually nurturing the next generation of Christian LGBTQ Leaders.
Our Mentors
Karen Keen
Karen is a biblical scholar and spiritual director with The Redwood Center for Spiritual Care & Education. She worked in higher education for several years and has a deep love for nurturing young adults.
Sally Gary
Sally is the founder and executive director of CenterPeace, a nonprofit that has been building Christian spiritual community for LGBTQ people for almost twenty years.
Ewduar Parra
Ewduar “Ed” grew up on a coffee farm in Columbia. He has more than two decades of ministry experience, including church planting, prison ministry, and Christian education. He lives in Wisconsin with his husband Ben.
Ben Kerns
Ben has served in ministry for many years. After Bible college, he engaged in church planting, youth ministry, and discipleship. He has also taught intercultural studies. He and his husband Ed are actively involved in their Madison, Wisconsin church.