I have always admired the faithful presence of the Salvation Army outside of shopping venues; they ring their bells and stand vigil over their red kettles, taking spare change and dollars to do loving works of mercy. Over the decades, as fake Christmas has taken over the month of December, the commitment of the Salvation Army to helping the poor has been a small but steady reminder that there are still lots of followers of Jesus who care more about the poor than commerce. For over 160 years, they have cared for people in need in ways that put most religious organizations to shame. But – they, like so many faith communities, have a history of discrimination against the LGBTQ community, and that stain on their history has caused many people of faith to not participate in their work.
So, I hesitated when I was asked if they could be included in our monthly ESL Dinner & Conversation schedule last year. I spoke with the person who suggested their inclusion, and she – a staunch supporter of equality – assured me that the Salvation Army in South Reading was not like that, and the organization in general had changed its ways. I took her word for it, but I also decided that I needed to verify her claims. I got to the location early so I could have a conversation with the husband-and-wife team who lead that particular post, and I asked them bluntly where they stood on LGBTQ acceptance. After about 15 minutes, I felt confident that they cared for all people, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, as children of God. And while there have been instances of bigotry over the years in individual locations, the larger organization has recognized the error of its ways and worked toward change. This article is helpful with this topic The Salvation Army’s anti-LGBTQ controversies, explained | Vox.
I am always a bit wary of churches and organizations with a history of bias who say they accept and love everyone. Too often, this is a smokescreen with an agenda to try to change people they define as sinful. They lure them in and then, after acceptance is expressed, suggest they get Conversion Therapy. While I can’t be 100% sure about this (or anything), it feels to me that the good people of the Salvation Army post in South Reading really mean it. There is no denying their commitment to caring for people in poverty; the evidence is seen daily in the community. Beyond that, I have to believe that people and organizations can change. I have changed on this subject myself, so I need to give others the same kind of grace I have been offered. This season of Advent is all about change and risks and new life, so until I am shown otherwise, I will support the work of our local salvationists. The poor of Reading and Berks County need their help – and ours.
Prayer – God of change and mystery, thank You for the ways we can all grow in our faith and works. Amen.
Today’s image is of Pete Buttigieg ringing a Salvation Army bell.