calendar November 14, 2010 in ELCA

Bishop Hanson’s It Gets Better Project Video

ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson told young people who suffer bullying because of their sexuality that "you are a beloved child of God" in a video contributed to the It Gets Better Project. In the video, Hanson acknowledges that "sometimes the words of my Christian brothers and sisters have hurt you" and shares his hope" "God has called you by name and claimed you for ever. There’s a place for you in this world and in this church."

 

An excerpt from Bishop Hanson’s message"

"Words have the power to harm and the power to heal.

"Sometimes the words of my Christian brothers and sisters have hurt you. And I also know
that our silence causes you pain.

"Today, I want to speak honestly with you and offer you the hope I have in Christ:
You are a beloved child of God. Your life carries the dignity and the beauty of God’s
creation. God has called you by name and claimed you forever. There’s a place for you in
this world and in this church.

"As a Christian I trust that God is working in this world for justice and peace through you
and through me.

"It gets better."