Friends of Bakos networks creedally orthodox and affirming Christian pastors and leaders with each other. For Christian pastors, professors, or community leaders who come from church backgrounds that do not affirm LGBTQ people and their marriages (e.g. evangelical, Catholic, pentacostal), it can be a lonely journey when we fully embrace LGBTQ people. The loss of friends or community means many of us have had to create new connections. That’s where Friends of Bakos can help.
Friends of Bakos is an ecumenical initiative for pastors and Christian leaders who are looking for community with other leaders who are both orthodox and affirming. Here you can find peer support and share resources for integrating LGBTQ people into the life of the church. Bakos Project also provides training and other resources, whether that’s greater understanding of biblical scholarship on sexuality and gender, tools for navigating personal spiritual trauma and disillusionment, Christ-like advocacy work, or best practices for LGBTQ ministry.
Is this you? Friends of Bakos have the following characteristics:
- Pastor, ministry leader, or other Christian leader (e.g. leaders at Christian colleges, para-church ministries, non-profits, community development organizations, etc).
- Creedally orthodox and affirming with a high regard for Scripture
- Actively and regularly involved in a local church.
- Deep love of Christ and commitment to embodied faith in daily life
- Desire to network with and fully affirm LGBTQ people.
- Desire to network with other pastors, ministry leaders, or Christian leaders in the community who are also creedally orthodox and affirming.
What we offer:
- Private Facebook group for networking, conversation, and collaboration (this group includes Friends of Bakos and LGBTQ participants in the Bakos Project)
- Opportunities to attend trainings and webinars at an affordable rate
- Friends of Bakos meet-up at the CenterPeace Conference.
- Bakos Project e-newsletter and blog (with opportunities to contribute to both)
How to join:
The Bakos Project values a relational approach to involvement. We often rely on the referrals of other pastors and organizational leaders. If you don’t already know someone involved with Friends of Bakos, fill out this Interest Form and we would love to have a conversation with you. Thank you for supporting the Bakos Project!