Everloving Pride
I am finding how to serve the world around me–as my full self.
I operate Stoneroller Cooperative, a design studio catering to mission-driven organizations. Over the past two years, as I've been on the path towards entering postulancy to become a priest, the studio has been steadily gaining momentum. I'm in the process of crafting a ministry that integrates my various skills, spanning marketing, teaching, activism, and graphic design.
This journey has been anything but straightforward. I find myself delving deep into my conflicting emotions regarding organized religion, even as I wholeheartedly pursue it. Writing application essays for the next stage of the discernment process forces me to confront decades of buried feelings and experiences. Though my progress has felt slow, I'm steadfastly moving towards where I believe I'm meant to be.
To manage my energy effectively, I take actions that align with my different areas of focus. With Pride Month approaching, I saw an opportunity to contribute to both the faith and LGBTQIA+ communities. Thus, Everloving Pride1 was born—free social media graphics available to help you welcome and celebrate LBGTQIA+ people year-round. As the initiative develops, I plan to offer free editable templates to further empower groups to send even more meaningful messages.
This initiative embodies pride—not as a sin, but as a profound feeling of wholeness and belonging. Each time I openly embrace my identity as a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community and a devout Christian, I aim to create an environment where others feel empowered to do the same. However, reconciling my journey towards self-acceptance with my calling to priesthood presents its challenges. Past experiences of rejection from certain churches still linger, as do the scars shared by many others.
Yet, in embracing my authenticity and unwavering faith, I'm charting a course towards my future. As I grow in pride, the need to differentiate between my identities fades. Through my evolving ministry, I hope to provide tools for others to stand firm in their faith, celebrating their diverse backgrounds. As I continue to heal from past wounds inflicted by misguided individuals, my connection with God deepens.
Happy Everloving Pride! Know that you are beautiful and loved just as you are, and Creation would not be as rich without you and your full lived experience. Embrace your worth and the love of the higher power you recognize.
Yes, I know it could have a hyphen but when I say this phrase, it flows as one tumbling word in my head. Grammar nerds, be still!