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NewsRegister.com: Out of the Shadows





OUT OF THE SHADOWS

This two-part series, published in October 2007,
shares the stories of gay and lesbian members of our community.
Together Works, a group that meets twice monthly
in the First Baptist Church of McMinnville,
has provided camaraderie and support.




Gay series grows from most personal of roots

In an era when being "queer" meant social ostracism at best and a painful death at worst, my father faced a lifelong struggle.


PART ONE




Gay community finds church home
First Baptist's Together Works a haven of 20 years standing

Forging a family
Opposites found love and belonging in life together

Gay couple find a church home
Don Hutchinson and his partner, Lee Swantek, were together 47 years.

A pioneer in gay rights
In keeping with his commitment to social justice, First Baptist's Bernie Turner helped open dialogue about homosexuality in Yamhill County





PART TWO




Growing up gay in McMinnville
Now a TV producer, J. Graigory struggled with his identity being raised in a conservative environment

Preaching the 'gospel of Inclusion'
In welcoming all people to the 'banquet table of the Scripture,' the Rev. Kent Harrop follows in his predecessor's footsteps

Sexual orientation not a matter of choice
McMinnville psychiatrist says 'conversion' programs amount to emotional abuse

Activists fuel change on campus
Student leaders of support group dedicate themselves to ending discrimination

 

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