By Lisa Dunson
In October, we celebrate two momentous occasions that remind us of the beauty of diversity and the power of unity: National Coming Out Day and World Communion Sunday. As we, the Alliance of Baptists, honor these days, we are reminded of our unwavering commitment to diversity, anti-racism, and the universal love that binds us together as one family in Christ.
World Communion Sunday, celebrated on the first Sunday of October, is a global Christian observance that emphasizes the unity of all believers. This day symbolizes the breaking down of barriers and the coming together of diverse communities to partake in the Lord’s Supper, reflecting the inclusive nature of Christ’s love.
For the Alliance of Baptists, World Communion Sunday is a testament to our commitment to diversity within the Body of Christ and a day on which we recognize and celebrate the rich cultural, racial, and theological diversity that exists within our faith community. Despite our varied experiences and perspectives, we are united in our shared commitment to justice, peace, and the transformative love of God.
National Coming Out Day, observed on October 11th, is a day to celebrate the bravery of LGBTQ+ individuals who live our truths openly and authentically. Coming out is a powerful act of self-affirmation and a personal and public call and demand for acceptance from family, friends, and society at large. It is a moment that reflects the courage to embrace one’s identity amidst a world that often marginalizes and discriminates.
World Communion Sunday and National Coming Out Day presents a powerful opportunity for reflection and action and provides a profound and prophetic message for each of us individually, for all of us communally, and for us politically on our national stage and in the global arena. It is a deeply spiritual and philosophical issue that calls us to acknowledge the interconnectedness of our identities, recognizing that our efforts towards dismantling systems of oppression and embracing inclusivity truly are intersectional and as such, can only be embraced and actioned through a holistic lens.
As the Alliance of Baptists, we understand, recognize and affirm that every person is made in the image of God, and is deserving of love, respect, and dignity. Our commitment to LGBTQ+ rights is grounded in the belief that inclusivity and acceptance are scriptural and foundational to our faith. By supporting and standing alongside those who bravely come out, we create communities where everyone can thrive, free from fear, prejudice and discrimination as we continue to educate ourselves and our communities about the struggles and experiences of LGBTQ+ persons and communities.
Understanding the intersectionality of National Coming Out Day and World Communion Day is crucial in understanding the historical and ongoing struggles against racism and discrimination while building empathetic and supportive communities and ensuring our churches and gatherings are safe and affirming spaces for everyone, regardless of race, gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation. What we know as the Alliance is that as we embrace and celebrate the diversity in each other and within our communities, we publicly acknowledge our unique contributions and honor the richness that comes from our varied backgrounds and experiences.
World Communion Sunday and National Coming Out Day presents a powerful opportunity for reflection and action and provides a profound and prophetic message for each of us individually, for all of us communally, and for us politically on our national stage and in the global arena. It is a deeply spiritual and philosophical issue that calls us to acknowledge the interconnectedness of our identities, recognizing that our efforts towards dismantling systems of oppression and embracing inclusivity truly are intersectional and as such, can only be embraced and actioned through a holistic lens. We recognize the fact that our commitment to justice and equality requires us to honor and uplift all voices, especially those historically marginalized and oppressed.
National Coming Out Day and World Communion Sunday stand as reminders to us of our collective responsibility to each other and more importantly, to God. As we celebrate these sacred days, let us renew our commitment to anti-racism, diversity, and unity carrying the spirit of these celebrations into our daily lives as we continually strive to be agents of change and bearers of Christ’s love. In doing so, we embody the true mission and vision of the transformative power of God’s grace and of our beloved and visionary founders of the Alliance of Baptists.
I choose to believe that together we can create a world where every person is valued, affirmed and loved and where the boundless and inclusive love of Christ is reflected and lived out loud! What do you choose to believe?
The Reverend Lisa Dunson is the President of the Alliance of Baptists Executive Committee and is a member of the Ministerial Team at Covenant Baptist UCC. She also serves as Co-Chair of the African American Women in Ministry (AAWIM) Global Engagement Committee and on the Executive Committee for the Potomac Association AAWIM.
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