More Light Presbyterians: Board of Directors Update

In October, the Rev. Alex Patchin McNeill and the Rev. Jess Cook concluded their ministries at More Light Presbyterians. Both utilized their gifts and talents to bring MLP to a new chapter in our life together. We are grateful for their contributions and wish them all the best in the next part of their journeys. MLP has been led to a path of openness and intersectionality, one that calls us to witness, hear, and address the complex issues of our world  from our particular position as an organization dedicated to the thriving of LGBTQIA+ children of God in the life of the PC(USA) and to the ongoing work of anti-racism. Rather than rush forward, the Board of Directors feels that it is important to take time to take stock, to consider where we would like to go so that we can continue to shine more light on all of the people and places that need it at this time. Such work requires deep introspection, thoughtful consideration, and an awareness of the intersections in which we all sit. In short, it requires a time of Sabbath. Scripture refers to a Sabbath year where land is to lay fallow, debts are forgiven, and the restoration of balance throughout Creation. (Exodus 23: 10-11 and Leviticus 25: 4-7) This year our Jewish siblings in faith are recognizing that Sabbath year. As Christians engrafted into the Jewish story, we, too, embrace seasons of rest to become more deeply connected to the work to which God calls each one of us. Sabbath creates the space for intentional reflection on who we are and the journey ahead. The board will be using this season to continue some programming while making room to consider ways forward. We will be examining and streamlining MLP’s online presence to better serve those who visit our website and receive regular communication. We will also discern the programs and structures that equip and empower those whom we serve, seeking ways to engage individuals, congregations, and organizations in conversation along the way. More Light is not only the people who compose its leadership. More Light is a movement, an embodiment of who we claim to be as a diverse community! We are thankful for the leadership who have helped us get to this point in the path, and we look forward to continuing our journey alongside all of you.     Grace and peace, Rev. Ashley DeTar Birt, Co-moderator Rev. Larissa Kwong Abazia, Co-moderator Rev. Dr. Ann Deibert Ethel Hornbeck Amy Kim Kyremes-Parks Rev. Ashley McFaul-Erwin Mark Olson Tanner Pickett Rev. Bruce Reyes-Chow Andrea Sawyer-Kirksey Rev. Lydia Tembo Jessica Vasquez-Torres Adrian White Daniel Williams More information about board members can be found here. Make a gift to MLP!

Contact Us More Light Presbyterians hello@mlp.org