Faith groups to observe World Day of Prayer to End Homophobia

Faith groups around the world will observe the World Day of Prayer to End Homophobia on Sunday, May 29. The international observance is organized by Metropolitan Community Churches, the world's largest faith group with a primary, affirming ministry to GLBT persons. "Too often homophobia has been rooted in religious intolerance," said veteran human rights activist the Reverend Dr. Troy D. Perry, moderator of the MCC denomination. "Discrimination against any of God's children is wrong." "Even with all of our progress over the past three decades, the reality is that millions of people around the globe are harmed by this type of discrimination," said Perry. "Homophobia contributes to higher rates of suicide in LGBT teens, higher rates of LGBT homelessness, lower wages for lesbians, and employment and housing difficulties for LGBT people. It still divides families and results in hate crimes against LGBT people." Other supporters include local Anglican, Episcopal, Unitarian, Methodist, Presbyterian, and United Church of Christ churches that will hold observances on May 29, as well as Jewish temples that will hold observances that same weekend. A free e-mail resource kit, complete with liturgical resources, prayers, litanies, and background facts is available from Metropolitan Community Churches by writing to info@MCCchurch.org.