House Of Rainbow Fellowship

Whose Report Will You Believe?

2011-12-16T10:46:00.001-08:00

Whose Report Will You Believe?
By Rowland Jide Macaulay, 16th December 2011.
In light of recent events in Nigeria, surrounded by the Medias’ responses to the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Bill 2011, it was high gears for the newspapers, popular TV and Radio shows, not leaving out websites and bloggers.

In 2008 I wrote a sermon with the above title, Whose report would you believe? I want to share it relevance with what is happening in 2011.

I was implicated in many of the Nigerian newspapers, just like I was in 2008 and there were calls for my execution on many of the radio and TV programmes, public opinions were extremely judgmental and inhumane, my thoughts in all of this is, Whose Report will you believe, and what would Jesus do to a homo?

In 1973 The American Psychiatric Association voted to remove homosexuality from the list of mental illness, 31 years later in 2004 the Nigerian Psychiatric Association made history by deleting homosexuality from its list of mental illness. It appears that the rest of society is delayed. And we have the evidence now if in 2011 members of the government can even consider to table an outrageous bill in the name of tradition, culture and religion.

There have been many debates and reports that claimed homosexuality is not of God and this comes with violence in our homes, nation and homophobic teaching of many religious leaders in Nigeria and all over the world.

For many Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Transgender and Intersex people and our families and heterosexual friends, these are times of torture and turmoil in a society that promotes homophobia through the thinking and utterances of very powerful and influential people.

Let us pray. Dearly Beloved, Lesbians, Gays, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Straight Children of God, we are the DIVA – because we are Divinely Inspired Victoriously anointed, we are placed under this burden of discrimination, because of the love of God and to the glory of Jesus who will deliver us from all those who persecute and spitefully abuse us. If you love Jesus Shout alleluia, If you love Jesus shout Amen

The background to the presentation of a report according to Numbers chapter 13, was as a result of an instruction to spy on the land of Canaan, to which God had promised the Israelites. Moses and Aaron sent men to spy out the land. They were not ordinary people, they were according to the bible, leading men, everyone a leader, they must have been leaders with experiences, perhaps highly educated, people whose report after 40 days of investigation would command respect.

The first 24 verses of Numbers chapter 13, gives us an insight in the workings and investigations these leaders carried out. It was hard work and tedious, they were spies and needed to investigate the land and ensure they come out alive, with all the information to occupy.

Moses instructions to the 12 leaders were clear and unambiguous.

• Spy the land, and see what the land is like
• Whether the people who live in it are strong or weak
• Whether they are few or many – census.
• Whether the land they live is good or bad
• Whether the towns that they live in are unwalled or fortified
• Whether the land is rich or poor
• Whether there are trees in it or not
• also instructed them to; Be bold and bring some of the fruit of the land

Today I believe many of us are called like these leaders to spy the land, be the representative of Jesus by bringing the good news to many marginalized people, even while they serve in other denominations, in our neighbourhoods, many of whom know many other gay or lesbian people that need the inclusive love of Jesus.

Verses 25-26 say “at the end of forty days they returned from spying out the land and they came to Moses and Aaron and to the entire congregation…”

This was the time for the presentation of the report, by the notable and qualified leaders.

First the bible illustrated that they brought back word, Showed the people the fruit of the land – evidence of how great the land is. Then they informed Moses, Aaron and the people that the land flows with milk and honey, economic boom, comfort and prosperous ease. Excellent news, I am sure if I was there at that point I will be more than excited, I perhaps would have had my bags packed ready to move.

But there is a problem, there is another report, reports that meant, don’t get happy yet, don’t rejoice just yet, let us tell you the bad news. Has anyone come to you and say I have good news and bad news, which one do you want first?

This is the bad news, the people who live in the land are strong, and the towns are fortified, very large and well protected, besides they are descendants of Anak, a long standing enemy of the Israelites.

At this point you can imagine the chaos, the disappointment, but there is yet another report, verse 30 says, But Caleb quieted the people before Moses, and said let us go up at once and occupy it (the land), for we are able to overcome it.

You must understand that from the leaders, there are differing and conflicting reports about the land and whether or not it was suitable for acquisition. The same today on whether or not to include gays and lesbians in the church, there are many arguments on our suitability to be Christian or to be ordain for ministry or to be citizens of the world.

There were antagonistic people around, the bible says that those that spent forty days with Caleb on this special expedition, said to the people, we are not able to go up against the people, for they are stronger than we. In other words, we are not up to the task, we cannot do it. Caleb and Joshua were in the minority giving a report of hope.

At this point the report was unfavorable, people were worried, and in addition to the bad report, the land also consumes its inhabitants, the people who live there are giants.

Whose report will you believe? Whose report will you believe? Oh Whose report will you believe? The report that says “We are able to overcome it” or that which concludes “we are not able because they are stronger than we?”

I want to invite you to come to Jesus with all the chaos, the disappointment, the lies that we cannot be children of God because we are gays and lesbians. I want to invite you to the place where all people are accepted and free to be children of God. And that is in the presence of Jesus, if you love Jesus say amen.

Let me remind you that we are able to overcome it, the rejection, the violence, the abuse, the assaults, the homophobic religious abuses, our bible is our guide, Roman 12:19 says “beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written vengeance is mine, I will repay says the Lord”.

Today, many people claim to speak the mind of God but yet do not believe in the inclusive love and gospel of Jesus that includes all people, regardless of whether we are black or white, large or small, tall or short, heterosexuals or homosexuals.

The bible tells us clearly in John 3:16 “for God so loved the world that God gave God’s only son, so that everyone/whosoever who believes in Jesus may not perish but may have eternal life” I tell you again Jesus came to die for our sins and not our sexuality, the requirement here is whoever believes, not Anglicans, or Catholics, or Pentecostals, but whoever believes in Jesus. Jesus does not belong to any denomination, Jesus died for all people.

Galatians 3:26 “ For in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, verse 3:28, there is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male or female, for all are one in Christ Jesus.” May I also say that there is no longer heterosexual or homosexual for we are all one in Christ Jesus.

Romans 9:19-21, 25-26 nailed it for me, we need to read and apply our bible which brings us into favour and the love of God. Hear what the bible says “For who can resist God’s will? But who indeed are you, a human being, to argue with God? Will what is molded say to the one who molds it, why have you made me like this? Has the potter no right over the clay, to make out of the lump one object for special use and another for ordinary use… those who were not my people I will call my people and those who were not beloved I will call beloved, and in the very place where it is said to them, you are not my people there they shall be called children of the living God” even if that place is Nigeria, I tell you those who persecute us have no option but we need to let them know we are children of the living God, called Dearly Beloved.

A few more illustration that shows that the bible is inclusive of all people regardless of our sexual orientation,

The woman married to seven brothers, Matthew 22:29-30 “Jesus answered them, you are wrong, because you know neither the scriptures nor the power of God. For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven” I want to tell you those that say we cannot be gay and Christians are wrong, those who said we are an abomination to God are wrong. Often they want us to deny God and our sexuality, they want to put our Jesus in a box.

Equally Jesus challenged the religious leader of his time after they failed to acknowledge the miracle of healing the man that was born blind, he was ostracized, and he was forced out of the church. The bible says in John 9:35 “Jesus heard that they had driven him out (that is the man Jesus healed) and when Jesus found him, he said do you believe in the son of man?... Verse 38 He said Lord I believe…verse 39 Jesus said I came into this world for judgement so that those who do not see may see and those who do see may become blind. Some of the Pharisees (the religious leaders of the time of Jesus), near Jesus heard this and said to Jesus, surely we are not blind, are we? Jesus said to them if you were blind, you would not have sin, but now that you say, we see, your sins remains”. Don’t be surprise that we live in a time that many religious leaders and fellow Christians will claim that they see but yet are determined to reject lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgender and intersex people and put us out of their churches.

Often we have relied on modern scientist to prove our cases, People say things about us and jump to human conclusions, but I want you to know that God is a good God who will not allow us to suffer and who continues to fight for us.

Finally brothers and sisters I charge your, whose report will you believe?

The report that condemns you and claim we are not children of God, or the scriptures that say we are dearly beloved children of the living God.

Whose report will you believe? Religious leaders who have used derogatory remarks to address gay and lesbian people or perhaps the book of 1 Peter 2:9 “…you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of God who called you out of darkness into God’s marvelous light”.

Dearly beloved, Whose report will you believe?

The negative report of the Nigerian media that rejects, victimize and ostracize us or the report that includes us? 1 Peter 2:10 says “once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people, once you had not received mercy but now you have received mercy”

Whose report will you believe? The report that keeps you in the closet of fear or the report according to the word of God in Roman 8:37-39 “…in all these things we are more than conquerors through Jesus who loved us, for I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord”.

In a BBC report, Dr Qazi Rahman, a lecturer in cognitive biology at Queen Mary, University of London, said that he believed that the brain differences between heterosexuals and homosexuals were laid down early in foetal development. "As far as he was concerned there is no argument any more - if you are gay, you are born gay," he said.

"As far as I'm concerned too there is no argument any more - if you are gay, you are born gay," Let us all believe in the report of the love of Jesus that includes everyone. God bless you all, Amen.

House Of Rainbow Fellowship Declares P.U.S.H

2011-12-09T11:20:00.000-08:00

House Of Rainbow Fellowship Declares P.U.S.H, to stamp out anti-gay bill. If everything else fails we believe in the power of prayer. We must stay on our knees and travail daily in our prayers. PUSH - PRAY UNTIL SOMETHING HAPPENS. “Very truly, I tell you, if you ask anything of God the Father in my name, God the Father will give it to you...Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete”. www.houseofrainbow.org

Contact Us:
House Of Rainbow Fellowship Email: church@houseofrainbow.org
Web Page: www.houseofrainbow.org
Phone: +44 (0) 7507 510 357
Find House Of Rainbow on Facebook/Twitter/Youtube/Blackberry pin 2680405D
Skype & Yahoo ID; revjide

We have groups in Lagos, Ibadan & Minna in Nigeria, London & Manchester UK, Accra Ghana, Gitega Burundi and Maseru Lesotho.

Conferences: December 2011 @ House Of Rainbow

2011-10-26T02:42:00.000-07:00

Pray With House Of Rainbow Fellowship

2011-10-19T13:32:00.000-07:00

Pray With House Of Rainbow Fellowship

Let us pray.

One: Lord hear us
All: Lord graciously hear us

One: We pray for all people who come to repentance of their sins, knowing that you are able to forgive and restore them, we pray in penitence for not loving our friends and neighbour as we should, count us worthy to be in your presence, Lord hear us.
All: Lord graciously hear us

One: Lord, our God, whose might is beyond compare and whose glory is beyond understanding, whose mercy is without measure and whose love for humankind is beyond all telling, look upon us and upon this holy house, God, according to your loving kindness and bestow on us your act of mercy and compassion, Lord hear us.
All: Lord graciously hear us

One: Lord, our God, save your people, all you call your children regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, origin or ethnicity, bless your inheritance, protect the fullness of your Church, sanctify those who love the beauty of your house, glorify them in return by your divine power and do not forsake us who hope in you, Lord hear us
All: Lord graciously hear us

One: Lover of humankind, make the pure light of your divine knowledge shine in our hearts and open the eyes of our mind to understand the inclusive message of your gospel and to welcome the ineffable love of God for all his people. Implant in us fear of your blessed commandments, so that, we may pursue a spiritual way of life, Lord hear us.
All: Lord graciously hear us

One: We pray for our world, knowledge and skills for leaders of all nations, and those in authority, that God will move them with the spirit of true leadership, we pray wisdom and strength for our spiritual leaders, reveal to them the inclusive gospel of righteousness, unite them, save them, have mercy on them, look upon your servant with favour, Lord hear us.
All: Lord graciously hear us

One: We pray for the founder, mission and work of House Of Rainbow Fellowship, her Local Leaders in Nigeria, Ghana, Lesotho, Burundi and United Kingdom, we pray that her assignment will be strengthened beyond comprehension; we pray for her staff, friends, allies and members around the world; we pray for those who seek refuge for the inclusion and ineffable love of God, Lord hear us.
All: Lord graciously hear us

We say together the prayer that Jesus taught us....Our Father who art in heaven.
And together we share ....The Grace of our Lord Jesus...
Amen

HOUSE OF RAINBOW E-GROUPS

2011-08-30T07:41:00.000-07:00

HOUSE OF RAINBOW FELLOWSHIP E-GROUPS

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Dearly Beloved Friend, and welcome to the House Of Rainbow discussion forum. We are very happy that posters have freedom of expression, but here are a few rules we insist you abide by, otherwise your posts may be deleted:

1. Only post relevant posts in a topic.

2. No Personal Attacks/Flaming/Shouting. If you do not agree with the views of a particular person, by all means discuss it with them, but do not respond in a way which attacks the person rather than their views. Please avoid SHOUTING!

3. No "adult" material and no swearing/bad language. This includes quotes from other materials or other people.

4. Please be reasonably concise anything over 1000 words may be difficult to follow. You can include hyperlinks to give references to longer material.

5. Please Respect the Moderator. The Moderator's decision is final, and his/her wishes must be complied with. He/she can edit and delete questions and postings if necessary.

6. No Unreasonable Pseudonyms. Of course people can use pseudonyms to protect their identity, but not if they are unreasonable or arrogant.

7. Disclaimer: the postings here are not endorsed in any way by the Moderator or by House Of Rainbow e-group. The Moderator does not pre-filter postings and can only visit from time to time. Anyone viewing or joining the group may do so only if they accept these rules and that House Of Rainbow e-group and the Moderator are not liable for anything posted by third parties.

Any breach of these guidelines may result in the relevant post/related responses being deleted or edited out, and the offender being prevented from posting. With these guidelines we hope that House Of Rainbow e-group continues to be a productive forum for growing spiritual understanding.

5th Year Anniversary Invitation to House Of Rainbow

2011-08-22T08:40:00.001-07:00

Special Invitation to House Of Rainbow Fellowship
5th Year Anniversary
Date: Friday 2nd September 2011,
Time: 6.30pm.

Special Guest Speaker:
Reverend Cathy Bird
The Superintendent Minister
Stoke Newington Methodist Church
London United Kingdom

Theme: The Ineffable Love Of God Never Ends
Location: Walthamstow East London
Please bring friends;
Refreshments and Drinks to Share.
RSVP to Nohmy 07837438176

House Of Rainbow Fellowship Activity Updates - June to September 2011.

2011-04-30T02:10:00.000-07:00

House Of Rainbow Fellowship Activity Updates - June to September 2011.

JUNE 2011.
• Friday 3rd June 2011, @6.30pm, HORF Walthamstow, London UK.
• Sunday 5th June 2011, @4pm HORF Ibadan Nigeria.
• Thursday 9th June, @ 6.30pm Conversation with UKBA, at Mischon De Reya, Summit House, 12 Red Lion Sq London WC1R 4QD
• Blackpool Pride with Liberty Church, 11th & 12th June 2011.
• Wednesday 15th June 2011, @6.30pm, HORF Manchester, Richmond Street Manchester M1 3HF UK.
• Thursday 16th June Panel Debate at School of Oriental and African Studies in London at 6pm, Room G2
• Saturday 18th June Waltham Forest LGBT Forum, at Unity Hall Bramley Close Off Higham Hill E17, @ 1.30-3.30pm
• Sunday 19th June 2011, Black Connection @PACE, 5.30pm, 34 Hartman Road London N7 9JL.

JULY 2011
Friday 1st July 2011, @6.30pm, HORF Walthamstow, London UK.
Sunday 3rd July 2011, @4pm HORF Ibadan Nigeria,
Sunday 17th July 2011, Black Connection @PACE, 5.30pm, 34 Hartman Road London N7 9JL.
Wednesday 27th July 2011, @6.30pm, HORF Manchester, Richmond Street Manchester M1 3HF UK.

AUGUST 2011
Friday 5th August 2011, @6.30pm, HORF Walthamstow, London UK (with International Special Guest Speaker- TBC).
Sunday 7th August 2011, @4pm HORF Ibadan Nigeria,
Saturday 20th August 2011, UK Black Pride, Torrington Square, Birkbeck University London WC1E 7JL.
Sunday 21st August 2011, Black Connection @PACE, 5.30pm, 34 Hartman Road London N7 9JL.

September 2011
Friday 2nd September 2011, @6.30pm, HORF Walthamstow, London UK; 5th Anniversary Supper. Speakers TBC.
Sunday 4th September 2011, @4pm HORF Ibadan Nigeria,
Wednesday 7th September 2011, @6.30pm, HORF Manchester, Richmond Street Manchester M1 3HF UK.
Sunday 18th September 2011, Black Connection @PACE, 5.30pm, 34 Hartman Road London N7 9JL.

Midweek Holy Communion in Walthamstow London
Mass celebrated at St Saviour’s Church 9.30am every Thursday and St Barnabas’s Church 12noon every Friday.

Sunday Services
Mass celebrated with Eucharist at St Saviour’s Church 9.00am and St Barnabas’s Church 11am every Sunday.

Bible Study; Every Tuesday at St Barnabas’s Church Vestry

TEN WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT HOUSE OF RAINBOW FELLOWSHIP
1) Become a friend/member, 2) Say regular prayers for us, 3) Worship with us in UK, Nigeria, Ghana and Lesotho 4) Join our online networks, facebook/twitter/youtube, 5) Tell others about us and or invite them to House of Rainbow, 6) Become a Local Leader, 7) visit us at www.houseofrainbow.org 8) Call/SMS on +447507510357, 9) Skype us @ Revjide, 10) Donate generously.

Contact Us:
House Of Rainbow Fellowship

Email: church@houseofrainbow.org

Phone: +442085583485; +44 (0) 7507 510 357

Find House Of Rainbow on Facebook/Twitter/Youtube

Skype & Yahoo ID; revjide

We have small groups meeting in London and Manchester UK, Lagos and Ibadan Nigeria, Accra Ghana and Maseru Lesotho.

Nigeria's gay church is reborn amid a climate of fear

2011-04-25T00:32:00.000-07:00

Nigeria's gay church is reborn amid a climate of fear

House of Rainbow church offers underground prayer and preaching to Christians ostracised by rampant homophobia
Shyamantha Asokan in Lagos
guardian.co.uk, Sunday 24 April 2011 19.57 BST
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/apr/24/gay-nigerians-church-services-secret

When Ade's aunt learned he was gay, the then 16-year-old Nigerian was made to go through an exorcism to expel "the demon of homosexuality".

"The priest came to the house with candles, holy water and anointing oils. I had to kneel down, holding candles in my hands," recalls Ade, now 25, as he sits in a cafe in Lagos. He does not wish to reveal his full name. "He kept shouting 'Come out! Come out! Come out!' in a fevered voice … I was allowed to go back to church after that but I had to pretend to be straight."

In a country where homosexuality is punishable by up to 14 years in prison, it is no surprise that many of Ade's friends – those who, like him, are both gay and religious – stay away from church altogether for fear of being outed.

However, an alternative could soon be at hand. Ade is helping to resurrect a religious refuge for himself and his friends. He is part of the team restarting House of Rainbow, the country's only gay church, which was forced to close in 2008 after a witch-hunt stirred by exposés in local newspapers.

The Rev Rowland Jide Macaulay, the gay minister who founded the church, is leading the comeback even though he remains in self-imposed exile in London.

"Religion is a backbone to life in Nigeria, so we all want to go to church," he says. "But we don't want to lie to God about who we are."

Macaulay first set up House of Rainbow in 2006, when he openly held Sunday services in a Lagos hotel hall decked out with rainbow flags. A public backlash culminated in members being beaten as they left church. Macaulay fled to the UK after death threats.

This year, he has recruited a small team that includes Ade as his local leader in Lagos. In his voluntary role, Ade started holding prayer sessions and Bible study groups at his house at the end of last month. A full church might be set up again if it is considered safe.

The project could even spread beyond the borders of Africa's most populous country. Macaulay has recently recruited a local leader in Accra, the capital of nearby Ghana. He is considering applications from Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Religious groups are central to Nigeria's culture of homophobia. Pentecostalism, an evangelical school of Christianity thought to have started in America just over a century ago, has blossomed in southern Nigeria and across Africa in recent decades. The "megachurches" in and around Lagos can attract tens of thousands of worshippers to a single service.

Pentecostal pastors often see gay desire as the work of demons. "You might start casually but, once you get into it, you will be possessed by the spirit," says Emmanuel Owoyemi, a pastor in Lagos.

Meanwhile, in Nigeria's mostly Muslim north, 12 states have adopted sharia law over the last decade. Gay sex carries the death penalty under sharia, although no executions have yet taken place. A national anti-gay marriage bill, which pushes for jail sentences for anyone who even assists gay marriage, has been before Nigeria's parliament since 2009.

Being gay is regarded as an offence across much of Africa. Uganda's parliament continues to debate a proposed law that would introduce the death penalty in some cases. Malawi's president only pardoned a gay couple last year sentenced to 14 years in jail after an international outcry.

Apart from being on the wrong side of the law, many homosexual Nigerians say exclusion from church is one of the hardest parts of being gay.

"We are brought up to believe that you should belong to a religion. We feel that, if we don't go to church, God will not answer our prayers," says a young gay man in Abuja, Nigeria's capital. "When I recently told a friend I was having financial difficulties, he said, 'When did you last go to church?'"

In oil-rich Nigeria, where corruption robs many of even basic services, religious groups provide more than spiritual assistance. Muslim movements such as Izala have built schools in the north, while southern pentecostal groups such as the Redeemed Christian Church of God run universities. "[We] lose out on all these services," says the young man.

Some argue that African homophobia is slowly waning. Marc Epprecht, an expert on sexuality in Africa at Queen's University in Canada, says the continent's growing number of gay rights groups are challenging negative stereotypes.

He adds that despite the bad press it attracts, African homophobia is not markedly stronger than that of poor or patriarchal parts of the Middle East and South America.

Macaulay, however, is not taking any chances this time. Prayer sessions are being held in secret locations. No unknown newcomers are being admitted. He continues to preach via YouTube from London – he thinks it would be unwise to return home. "We have learnt our lesson," he says. "It is a hostile situation."

Come Walk With Me – The Easter Prayer 2011

2011-04-23T04:49:00.000-07:00

Come Walk With Me – The Easter Prayer 2011

1. Jesus is Condemn to death

Bible Reading; Matthew 27:22-26
Pilate said to them, ‘Then what should I do with Jesus who is called the Messiah?’* All of them said, ‘Let him be crucified!’ Then he asked, ‘Why, what evil has he done?’ But they shouted all the more, ‘Let him be crucified!’ So when Pilate saw that he could do nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took some water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, ‘I am innocent of this man’s blood;* see to it yourselves.’ Then the people as a whole answered, ‘His blood be on us and on our children!’ So he released Barabbas for them; and after flogging Jesus, he handed him over to be crucified.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, you were condemned to death for political expediency; be with all those imprisoned unjustly and help us to change the minds of oppressors and exploiters everywhere. Amen.

2. Jesus Receives the Cross.

Bible Reading; John 19:16-17
Then he handed him over to them to be crucified. So they took Jesus; and carrying the cross by himself, he went out to what is called The Place of the Skull, which in Hebrew* is called Golgotha.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, you carried the cross, laden with the weight of our sins, through the rough streets of Jerusalem; be with those who are loaded with burdens beyond their strength; and help us to realize the cost of your love for us. Amen.

3. Jesus falls for the first time.

Bible Reading; John 12:23-24
Jesus answered them, ‘The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. 24Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.

Prayer:
How can it be, Lord Jesus, eternal Son of God, that you should fall down? O Jesus, I wonder how heavy was my share of the burden you bore on your shoulder. In your tender mercy, do not let me be discouraged by my failures but lift me up and bring me to the father. Amen.

4. Jesus meets his mother

Bible Reading; Luke 2:33-35
And the child’s father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. Then Simeon* blessed them and said to his mother Mary, ‘This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your own soul too.’

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, she stayed with you step by step, from stable to Nazareth and on to Cana; now she can only watch. How can a mother see her son suffer? Look mercifully on all parents who watch helplessly as their children grow, stumble and fall, and in wiping away their tears, give them patience and hope. Amen.

5. The Cross is laid upon Simon of Cyrene.

Bible Reading; Luke 23:26
As they led him away, they seized a man, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming from the country, and they laid the cross on him, and made him carry it behind Jesus.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, you were worn down by fatigue and in simplicity accepted the help of a stranger; be with those who are overwhelmed and exhausted by work, by stress, by responsibility and when an invited cross is loaded onto our shoulder, may we willingly carry it for you. Amen.

6. Veronica wipes the face of Jesus.

Bible Reading; Matthew 25:34-40
Then the king will say to those at his right hand, “Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.” Then the righteous will answer him, “Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?” And the king will answer them, “Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family,* you did it to me.”

Prayer:
O Jesus, may our contemplation of your passion move us deeply and inspire in us a fervent love for you, that the image of your tear-stained face may be impressed on our hearts. Amen.

7. Jesus falls the second time.

Bible Reading; Psalm 44:25-26
Rouse yourself! Why do you sleep, O Lord? Awake, do not cast us off for ever! Why do you hide your face? Why do you forget our affliction and oppression? For we sink down to the dust; our bodies cling to the ground. Rise up, come to our help. Redeem us for the sake of your steadfast love.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, in order to save the human race, you staggered on your painful journey; whenever people are tempted to give up, have mercy on those who are close to despair. Amen.

8. Jesus meets the women of Jerusalem.

Bible Reading; Luke 23:27-31
A great number of the people followed him, and among them were women who were beating their breasts and wailing for him. But Jesus turned to them and said, ‘Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. For the days are surely coming when they will say, “Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never nursed.” Then they will begin to say to the mountains, “Fall on us”; and to the hills, “Cover us.” For if they do this when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?’

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, the women of Jerusalem wept for you; move us to tears at the plight of our broken world and help us to weep for our sins; send your blessing on the city of Jerusalem today, that it may indeed be the city of Peace. Amen.

9. Jesus falls for the third time.

Bible Reading; Psalm 38:7-11
For my loins are filled with burning, and there is no soundness in my flesh. I am utterly spent and crushed; I groan because of the tumult of my heart. O Lord, all my longing is known to you; my sighing is not hidden from you. My heart throbs, my strength fails me; as for the light of my eyes—it also has gone from me. My friends and companions stand aloof from my affliction, and my neighbours stand far off.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, as you crash to the hard stones of the Jerusalem street, I see what my falling into sin does to your heart of love. Be with me in my times of temptation and lift my eyes to see the glories of your kingdom. Amen.

10. Jesus is stripped of his garments.

Bible Reading; John 19:24
So they said to one another, ‘Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it to see who will get it.’ This was to fulfil what the scripture says, ‘They divided my clothes among themselves, and for my clothing they cast lots.’

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, how anxious I am to conceal my real self even from you. How reluctant I am to acknowledge my responsibility for what I do and say. Help me to be confident of your love and forgiveness and remind me that I am made in the image of God. Amen.

11. Jesus is nailed to the cross

Bible Reading; John 17:1-3
After Jesus had spoken these words, he looked up to heaven and said, ‘Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son so that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him authority over all people,* to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, you bled in pain as the nails were driven into your flesh, transform, through the mystery of your love, the pain of those who suffer. Amen.

12. Jesus dies on the cross.

Bible Reading; Philippians 2:6-8
Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death even death on a cross.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, in death you entered the darkest of all places; give us all the courage in the hour of our death and illumine our darkness with your glorious presence. Amen.

13. Jesus’ body is laid in the arms of his mother.

Bible Reading; John 19:32-38a
Then the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and of the other who had been crucified with him. But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. Instead, one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once blood and water came out. (He who saw this has testified so that you also may believe. His testimony is true, and he knows* that he tells the truth.) These things occurred so that the scripture might be fulfilled, ‘None of his bones shall be broken.’ And again another passage of scripture says, ‘They will look on the one whom they have pierced.’ After these things, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, though a secret one because of his fear of the Jews, asked Pilate to let him take away the body of Jesus.

Prayer:
Merciful Jesus, whose mortal body was returned to the loving arms of his mother; heal the sadness of all those who mourn. Amen

14. Jesus’ body is laid in the tomb.

Bible Reading; John 19:38b-42
Pilate gave him permission; so he came and removed his body. Nicodemus, who had at first come to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, weighing about a hundred pounds. They took the body of Jesus and wrapped it with the spices in linen cloths, according to the burial custom of the Jews. Now there was a garden in the place where he was crucified, and in the garden there was a new tomb in which no one had ever been laid. And so, because it was the Jewish day of Preparation, and the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, though you were the Lord of Life, you became as nothing for us and you were laid in a cold, dark tomb; be with those who feel worthless, those ignored by the world and those who dies alone and afraid. Amen.

Everlasting God, who in your tender love towards the human race, sent your son our saviour Jesus Christ to take upon him our flesh and to suffer death upon the cross; grant that we may follow the example of his patience and humility and also be made partakers of his resurrection, through Jesus Christ our Lord who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Dates for 2011 meeting at House Of Rainbow Fellowship

2011-03-06T05:48:00.001-08:00

Dates for 2011 meeting at House Of Rainbow Fellowship
UNITED KINGDOM

EAST LONDON
Date: Every first Friday of each month
Time: 6.30pm Prompt
Location: Walthamstow LONDON

MANCHESTER
Date: Every six weeks on Wednesday, (23rd March, 4th May, 15th June, 27th July, 7th September, 19th October & 30th November)
Time: 6.30pm Prompt
Location: LGF Foundation Centre, 5 Richmond Street, Piccadilly Manchester M1 3HF • We have small groups in London and Manchester UK, Nigeria, Ghana and Lesotho

Contact Us:
House Of Rainbow Fellowship &
Revd Rowland Jide Macaulay Ministries

Email: church@houseofrainbow.org
Phone: +442085583485; +44 (0) 7507 510 357
Find House Of Rainbow on Facebook/Twitter/Youtube
Skype & Yahoo ID; revjide

About House Of Rainbow Fellowship
House Of Rainbow Fellowship is an inclusive and affirming religious community open and welcome to all people including Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Transgender and Intersex people, a monthly gathering of “People of Faith” for “Prayer and Praise”, which focuses on the person’s journey towards reconciliation of sexuality and spirituality.

House Of Rainbow Fellowship aim to provide an inclusive Christian theological focus and interpretation of Scriptures.

The vision of the House Of Rainbow Fellowship was birthed by Reverend Rowland Jide Macaulay, an openly gay African theologian. The style of the House Of Rainbow Fellowship is Pentecostal with “High Praise”, Prayers and Christian fellowship.

All are welcomed including;
• Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Transgender and Intersex people (LGBTI)
• Parents and Friends of LGBTI people

Volunteer Local Leaders Needed.
Are you Called to be a Local Leader? House Of Rainbow needs you.

Are you a devout Christian?
Do you believe in the inclusive Gospel of Jesus for All people?
Are you able to manage a small group of people?
Are you passionate about helping people?
Can you provide pastoral care?
Are you aged 18 and over?

If you say YES to all the above questions, then contact us for more information at Church@houseofrainbow.org

Websites:
www.houseofrainbow.org
www.rjmm.co.uk
www.wouldjesusdiscriminate.org
www.youtube.com/houseofrainbow
Recommended Books:Holy Bible
The Children Are Free by Revd Jeff Miner & John Connolly
Pocket Devotional for LGBT Christians by Revd Rowland Jide Macaulay
The Queer Bible Commentary Edited by Guest, Goss, West & Bohache
The Queer God by Marcella Althaus-Reid
Indecent Theology by Marcella Althaus-Reid
Take Back The Word Edited by Goss & West
Biblical Ethics & Homosexuality Edited by Robert L. Brawley
In the Eye of the Storm by Gene Robinson

We Are God's Work of Art

2011-02-25T02:07:00.000-08:00

We Are God’s Work Of Art.

By Reverend Rowland Jide Macaulay

In the city we are accustomed to seeing many art works on display, some of us have artworks in our homes and we see them in the market places, in art galleries all over the world for some art lovers.

God is an artist, who built humankind to God’s pleasure and taste, God works ceaselessly and tirelessly and effortlessly to shape the work of art, that work of art is you, and me, we are molded and built according to God’s purpose.

An artist work with tools, different types of artists different types of tools, imagine the craft artist making a life like object, imagine the potter carefully molding from clays, and the ceramic artist putting the final touches on the paint work, imagine the portrait artist completing the replica of a family photo. We have seen artist at work trying to draw a portrait of a person and often we recognize the person through the work of the artist.

The bible tell us “All things came into being through him and without him not one thing came into being, what has come into being in him was life and the life was light of all the people” John 1:3-4

Similarly when an artist is working on a project, it never comes to life until the last paint is dotted or wood has been peeled. Often there is a ceremony to unveil the beauty of the artwork. And then people who see it will be amazed. And then they will come closer to view and make comments on the beauty, the dedication, and the hard work of the artist producing perfect results.

Lets us pray.

Loving God, Holy artist, we are your work of art created in Christ Jesus. Help us to live the good life you intended for each of us and for our community, we know that God sees through the heart of all matters and to the heart of our matters. Like an artist who believe in their work, God, please express your confidence in our creativity through this scripture, as I bring your word to your people, let us acknowledge that we are good and that we are capable of doing good, and all the Divas, (divinely inspired victoriously anointed) say amen.

Ephesians 2
“You were dead to trespasses and sins in which you once lived, following the course of this world…”

Following the course of this world, many of us who are not heterosexuals have been forced to conform to the world, we marry the wrong gender and make their lives miserable, we try to please our families, conform with culture and popular faith traditions, often like the wrong artist’s tool we don’t fit in, we try to blend in but often we fail awfully. We were dead through the trespasses and sins of trying to be who we are not, trying to be butch when we are effeminate, trying to be effeminate when we are butch, we come up with fancy walks by putting our hands in our pockets so we can conform to walking on a straight line, but often we fall, darling divas, we are divinely inspired and victoriously anointed, so we can walk with our heads high and relax, show the attitude and beauty of the holy artist, who made all the curves and the contours.

Our lives as heterosexuals or what society wanted us to be is over, tell someone “its over,” the bible says “once lived” but now that we are in Christ, now that we are on the way to reconcile sexuality with spirituality, we can understand 2 Corinthians 5:17 which says “so if anyone is on Christ there is a new creation, everything old has passed away; see everything has become new.” We are a new gay or lesbians Christians, we are able to tell people that God is the incredible artist that spent immeasurable time creating us.

We don’t have to pretend to be who we are not.

You can stand in front of the mirror butt naked and admire the beauty of God, you can feel your heart beat when you acknowledge the beauty of a man or woman that walks pass you, I don’t mean lust after them, you can say that you spent the weekend with Joseph who you are madly in love with and not Josephine the fictitious girlfriend who is often absent at the office Christmas party, “well oga she go village”.

Let me tell you when we work in disobedience we say to God I don’t like the way you created me, the bible tells us that this is a spirit that is at work among those who are disobedient.

We are by nature children of wrath because we live in the world, but we don’t have to be like the people of the world “if the world hates you, be aware that it hated me before it hated you, (Jesus declared to his disciples) if you belonged to the world the world would love you as its own, because you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world therefore the world hates you” John 15:18-19.

We don’t have to do the things the world want us to do, if we become strong and bold and say we are gays which means God Accepts You, then our family and cultural heritage will have to understand. Often we are afraid to tell people the truth, the bible says and you shall no the truth and the truth shall set you free.

I Peter 2:9-10 “you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of God who called you out of darkness into God’s marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people”

We belong to the holy artist, if we are rejected by the world we live in, then don’t be surprise because they don’t know us, but let me tell you, don’t expect the world to love you, until we proclaim the mighty acts of our holy artist, who called us out of the darkness of homophobia, the violence and victimization, the rejection and ostracism, the mental slavery and spiritual bondage into relationship and light of Jesus our redeemer, comforter.

Verse 4-5, Ephesians 2, “But God who is rich in mercy, out of great love with which he loved us even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ, by grace you have been saved”

The artist who owns the brushes, the paints, the colors, the tools, out of passion and love for us created us gays and lesbians, bisexuals and transgender, and some heterosexuals, if I told you that the real minorities are heterosexuals will you believe? This is a fact, there are many more same gender loving people, if they will acknowledge and admit, but how will they when they live in world that hates them. It is the love of God that enable us to reconcile sexuality with spirituality and not be judged or condemned, Romans said and “there is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,” (8:1) also said “but God proves God’s love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us” I tell you, out of that great love we are called dearly beloved, out of that great love we can say we are divas.

Verse 8-10 “for by grace you have been saved through faith and this is not your own doing it is the gift of God, not the result of works, so that no one may boast, For we are what God has made us (LGBTI) created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared beforehand to be the way of life.”

Finally, We can run but we cannot hide, we are God’s treasure and the bible is clear, we are what God has made us, we are LGBTI people, prepared beforehand to be the way of life, we only need to come to the throne of grace and mercy, because we have been saved through faith in God, it is not by power nor is it by might but the gift of God, not the result of our hard work. God made us and we are wonderfully made, created in Christ Jesus for good works, that is why 1 Peter 3:8-9 tells us “Finally all of you have unity of spirit sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart and a humble mind, do not repay evil for evil or abuse for abuse, but on the contrary repay with a blessing. It is for this that you are called, that you might inherit a blessing”

Tell somebody you are blessed, if we go by the measure of hatred we experience from our families, neighbors, employers and general public, we will be subjected to everlasting pain. However, we are considered a blessing and we are Divas (divinely inspired victoriously anointed). Every negative headline and media campaign against our church we consider them a blessing, because I believe and I hope you will join me by faith that we would rather be a blessing to our community than gather evil or insult against their bigotry.

We are God’s work of art, regardless of how the world sees us, but we can display the beauty of God’s work by taking time to walk the walk and talk the talk of the beauty of the Holy artist in our lives. Tell somebody you are God’s work of art. Amen

One On One - Gay Film

2011-02-19T03:37:00.001-08:00

The Ineffable Love of God for LGBT People

2011-02-10T11:55:00.001-08:00

The Ineffable Love Of God
By Rowland Jide Macaulay
House Of Rainbow Fellowship
4th and 9th February 2011

Psalm 139:13-14 “For it was you (God) who formed my inward parts (the parts of me I have no control of, such as my senses, feelings, my thoughts etc); you knit (made, formed, mould, construct) me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works (creation including me)”.

King David spoke these words in Psalm 139 v 13-14, I cannot but imagine the love of God for all people, for you and for me, for many people hiding from God and truly afraid to be themselves.

How many of us can truly imagine what we would do without God, how would our parents feel, knowing how much God loved them that he formed us, made us, moulded us in our mother’s womb? How many of us can say that we know ourselves well and what we are capable of doing? How many of us are willing to allow God to take control of all of our anxieties and pains?

How can we be assured of the ineffable love of God? For many Christians it began with the love of God to the world, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. ‘Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him”. John 3:16-17.

At the purification ceremony of Jesus, Luke made a further clarification of the love of God which was witnessed by Simeon and Anna in the Gospel of Luke 2: 30-32 (paraphrased) “... Simeon said for my eyes have seen your salvation, (Salvation brought by the extent of the love of God) which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, (an indication that all are called to share in this Salvation, without prejudice or discrimination) a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.”

Romans 9:19-21, “You will say to me then, ‘Why then does he still find fault? For who can resist his will?’ 20But who indeed are you, a human being, to argue with God? Will what is moulded say to the one who moulds it, ‘Why have you made me like this?’ 21Has the potter no right over the clay, to make out of the same lump one object for special use and another for ordinary use?”

I believe today that God has created us for a very special use, to liberate the world of its ignorance of marginalised minorities, it is the same God that helped Black people to overcome discrimination on the grounds of their race, it is the same God that delivered women from sexism, and I believe the same God will deliver sexual minorities from the pain the world has caused us. (AMEN).

Who can resist the will of God to be who they are, Just as they are? What are the challenging that you are facing, the burdens that you bare? God can handle it? Many of us have complained to God, why have you made me Black or White?, why am I jobless, why am I going through all these problems, many of us have spoken against God in our moments of desperation, but you know I believe God knows best and that is why the Bible says who can resist God’s will?, who can argue with God? If he made you straight then you are straight, if he made you gay then you are gay? If you are Nigerian nothing can change that, What we do with what God has given us and where he has placed matters most, the gift of God for us is for a reason.

Genesis 1:31 says, “God saw everything that he had made and indeed, it was very good” ofcourse that includes Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Trans and Intersex people, it includes healthy people and those very ill, it includes people of all race, sizes and religions, from every part of the earth.

Today, I want us to focus on the ineffable love of God, unimaginable, immeasurable, unbelievable love of God goes beyond human understanding, it goes beyond the love of parents or family.

Today we may struggle with our human identity, let us pray for our families, our friends and those who also face prejudices because of us, let us hold them in our thoughts.

I cannot end this short talk without a mention of our friend David Kato who was murdered in Uganda last week, he was a fine man, a fighter, a man who was not selfish but stepped out of the shadows to speak out, he stood up for the equal rights of LGBT people, he spoke against the Nations media and against the anti-gay bill, he spoke so loud that it cost him his life. In Micah 6:8, Micah spoke to the persecutors and the persecuted, he said. “Hear what the LORD says:...O mortal, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”. I believe that David Kato dedicated his life to do justice, love kindness and walk with God. What are you prepared to do?

God’s ineffable love is evident, and we need not worry anymore, Romans 9:25-26 “Those who were not my people I will call “my people”, and her who was not beloved I will call “beloved”. And in the very place where it was said to them, “You are not my people”, there they shall be called children of the living God.”

The ineffable love of God goes beyond human comprehension and I want us to rethink what our definition of love is, when we say we love God do we really mean this, are we able to express such unimaginable love to God through the people around us?

The love of God is recognisable in Isaiah’s prophesy, “Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace...He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness”, God’s love can also be recognised through our actions to share each other’s burdens and in our deeds to speak out for justice and show that we care.

(SLOWLY) “God is love, and those who abide in love abide in God, and God abides in them. Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness on the day of judgement, because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love. We love because he first loved us. Those who say, ‘I love God’, and hate their brothers or sisters, are liars; for those who do not love a brother or sister* whom they have seen, cannot love God whom they have not seen”. 1 John 4:16b-20.

Give God a chance and accept that he loves you unconditionally, GAY means God Adores You, God Accepts You, God Affirms You, God Accompany You, it doesn’t matter if you are heterosexual, married or unmarried, if you are LGBT, if you are healthy or ill, if you are wealthy or poor, if you live in the city of Village. What we do know is that God loves you because he knew you, formed you from your mother’s womb. God bless you all. Amen.

A Prayer for David Kato

2011-02-04T01:49:00.000-08:00

A prayer for David Kato, for LGBTI people, friends, allies, relatives and families.

We are free to worship God without fear; Holy and righteous all the days of our life.

God of glory and unquenchable Spirit,
May your Son direct us afresh to the fire of your presence
Where nothing may amaze us more than your love
Nothing may inspire us more than your forgiveness
And nothing may dazzle us more than your beauty.

(Keep Silence)

Disclosed to us in your world, your story and your Son Jesus Christ our Lord and also in our understanding of same gender love, a refreshing path to reconcile with you just as we are.

(Keep Silence)

O God, the author of peace and lover of concord
Whom to know is eternal life
Whose service is perfect freedom
Defend us your servant, whom you called Beloved
From all assaults of our enemies
That we, surely trusting in your defence
May not fear the power of any adversaries
Through Jesus Christ our Lord.

(Keep Silence)

Tender God, gentle protector in time of trouble.
Pierce the gloom of despair and give us, with all your people, our friends, allies, families, at home and abroad, The song of freedom and the shout of praise
In Jesus Christ our Lord.

(Keep Silence)

God, remember not only the men and women of goodwill but all those of ill will. Do not only remember all the suffering they have subjected us to. Remember the fruits of our solidarities and campaigns, our comradeship, loyalty, humility, courage, generosity and the greatness of heart that all will be inspired. Amen

(Keep Silence)

Lighting of candles to remember David Kato and those tragically killed, maimed or injured because they are LGBTI.

Followed by the Prayer that Jesus thought us, “Our Father who art in heaven”.

ZAch Wahls Speaks About Family

2011-02-02T12:28:00.001-08:00

House Of Rainbow Fellowship mourns David Kato.

2011-01-29T02:04:00.001-08:00

House Of Rainbow Fellowship mourns David Kato.

The death of David Kato has sent a wave of shock throughout the human rights communities, many African LGBT people and allies are in deep mourning. The blood of an innocent man cries from the grave, his death is a result of unimaginable hatred, how those expected to protect us now defend and justify hatred of Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals and Transgender people to the point of death.

Micah 6:8 “...O mortal, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”

David Kato was a human rights defender and he spoke fiercely against the injustices towards LGBT people in Africa and especially in Uganda, he was fearless in challenging the government and the Ugandan media for their imbalance report, discriminations and views of gay people. He spoke out and stood up for justice until his last breath.

David Kato will be remembered and not forgotten for his perseverance, tenacity, determination in the face of evil. He was truly an African man, proud not just to be gay but as a citizen of Africa.

David Kato refused to live in fear of his death, but he committed himself to the works of fairness and justice for all. We believe that David Kato’s killers will be judged by God, those who peddle hatred do so out of unjust fear.

Whilst African governments and religious leaders deny the existence of LGBT people, it is obvious that such hatred and homophobia cannot be denied.

It our hopes that as a people of Africa, we would in our togetherness condemn injustices, discriminations and deep rooted hatred towards all minorities and marginalised people.

Finally, we pray, may the soul of David Kato rest in peace, you remain in our hearts and memories.

God, remember not only the men and women of goodwill but all those of ill will. Do not only remember all the suffering they have subjected us to. Remember the fruits of our solidarities and campaigns, our comradeship, loyalty, humility, courage, generosity and the greatness of heart that all will be inspired. Amen

Reverend Rowland Jide Macaulay
On Behalf of House Of Rainbow Fellowship
www.houseofrainbow.org
Tel: +442085583485, +447507510357

The Ineffable Love of God for LGBT People

2011-01-24T04:20:00.000-08:00

HOUSE OF RAINBOW FELLOWSHIP
Presents Prayer and Praise evenings with an inclusive gospel of Jesus, celebrating the ineffable love of God for ALL people. Come Just as you are, to an inclusive space to pray and safe space to praise.

Theme: The Ineffable Love of God

LOCATIONS
LONDON UK: Friday 4th February 2011, 6.30-8pm (and then on the first Friday each month)
Foster Hall, Wellesley Road, Off Boundary Road London E17 8QX

MANCHESTER UK: Wednesday 9th FEBRUARY 2011, @6.30pm (then 23rd March)
The Lesbian & Gay Foundation, Number 5, Richmond Street, Manchester M1 3HF

LAGOS NIGERIA: Call +2348052567170 for details

Contact details for House Of Rainbow Fellowship;
Nigeria: +2348052567170
UK: +442085583485 or +447507510357
Email: church@houseofrainbow.org
Webpage: www.houseofrainbow.org
HouseOfRainbow: Facebook/Twitter/Youtube

Spiritual Sunday

2011-01-22T22:52:00.000-08:00

ITS SPIRITUAL SUNDAY!!!!!
Luke 6:22-23 “Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you, revile you and defame you on account of the son of Man. Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven, for that what their ancestors did to the prophets”

With an update of the hatred that Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals and Transgender people face daily, it is not surprising that the bible passage here speaks to us clearly, we are blessed when people hate, exclude, revile, and defame us on the account that we are children of the living God.
Our families hate us, our societies revile and our governments are looking for legal methods to exclude us. I say to you brothers and sisters, rejoice and leap for joy, for your reward is the unconditional love of God for each of us.
I pray that we do not lose sight of this miraculous phenomenon. I say a little prayer for you that you will be able to withstand the wiles of the enemy and each day you will become stronger by recognising the love of Jesus for you. Amen

My Daddy said - "Happy New Year to My Lovely Gay Son".

2011-01-17T11:43:00.001-08:00

My Daddy said - "Happy New Year to My Lovely Gay Son".
A postponed visit to Nigeria after several years of estrangement took place a few weeks ago, I want to share this experience with my new found friends. I came out as gay in 1994 after a troubled heterosexual life, my "Coming Out" was a devastation merged with so many religious bashing, I was hated, called an abomination etc. When my family found out I was gay, many of my siblings Stopped speaking with me, my mother was the only one who comforted me and acted natural, when my father got to know it was three years of hell and then I realised that I could lose him, I concluded that if my earthly father can react with such hatred what would my Heavenly father do?, afteral I believed that I am wonderfully made and created in the image of God. My only answer was prayer and more prayers. Many people at House Of Rainbow in Nigeria (and a few more outside Nigeria) have met my dad and he is a wonderful typical Yoruba man, in 2008 he was caught unaware in the Nigerian media frenzy that nearly crippled his reputation but not his love and relation with his son, while the headlines read Hatred, his heart was filled with Love. 2011 started with a difference when on the 2nd Jan we went out to Victoria Island for lunch, the peaceful drive provided a great scenery of Lagos. As we sat at lunch and enjoyed each other company. He suddenly said I am pleased that I am having lunch with my gay son, I almost fell out of my chair. I believe many people need to hear this as we struggle with our relationships, especially with parents and families, if we are not loved at home, we can never find that love abroad, I want as many to hold on and be strong, being gay or lesbian is least understood in Nigeria and by Nigerians, one day those who reject us will celebrate and respect us. Jide

2011 - House Of Rainbow’s Year of Rewards and Compensations.

2011-01-17T11:25:00.000-08:00

2011 - House Of Rainbow’s Year of Rewards and Compensations.

In 2008 as many people may recount, House Of Rainbow and myself ran into serious trouble with the Nigerian media, it was indeed our annus horribilis. Many of our members were displaced, some fired from their jobs and evicted from their homes, many where disowned by their families, my home in Isolo was badly vandalised and looted of every valuable items. These were not reported by the callous minded editors of the Nigerian press. As far as they are concerned they have achieved the unachievable. What we did after that was to pick ourselves up, shake off the dust of intolerance and begin the rather tedious journey of rebuilding our ministry, we set up online support and started to network within the country, across religious groups and people. We also worked with many safe house projects to protect vulnerable people. Now we are stronger in 2011, we are building alliances with civil society and other groups, we are present on facebook with nearly 2000 friends, Private interactive forum for devotion and prayers with over 600 members, Youtube, twitter and our own webpage, we are reaching thousands of people in Nigeria and the rest of Africa, UK, USA and elsewhere, than we ever did in the time we were in Nigeria alone. We are proud of the many resilient men and women, supporters of House Of Rainbow abroad and especially those in Nigeria.

2011 we are determined to do more, create more Voluntary Local Leaders, expand on our theologies, increase the attendance and spiritual upliftment of our members, friends and alliances in Nigeria, Ghana, UK, USA, and elsewhere, reconstitute new groups and Fellowships across UK, Nigeria and around Africa, groups of people willing to Praise and Worship God, just as they are. We are asking you good people to consider supporting House Of Rainbow Fellowship.

TEN WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT HOUSE OF RAINBOW FELLOWSHIP
1) Become a friend/member, 2) Say regular prayers for us, 3) Worship with us in London and Manchester 4) Join our online networks, facebook/twitter/youtube, 5) Tell others about and or invite them to House of Rainbow, 6) Become a Local Leader for House Of Rainbow, 7) visit us at www.houseofrainbow.org 8) Call/SMS on +447507510357, 9) Skype us @ Revjide, 10) Donate generously.

HOR Conference Lagos Nigeria

2010-12-24T02:22:00.000-08:00

2011 @ House Of Rainbow Fellowship

2010-12-23T09:36:00.001-08:00

2011 @ House Of Rainbow Fellowship

Friday 4th February 2011, 6.30pm London
(and then on the first Friday of the month)

House Of Rainbow Fellowship presents a monthly Prayer and Praise evening in London on the first Fridays of the month, with an inclusive gospel of Jesus, celebrating the ineffable love of God for all people. Come Just as you are, to an inclusive space to pray and safe space to praise.

• House Of Rainbow Fellowship also meets on Wednesday 9th February 2011 in Manchester (further dates and activities to be confirmed)

About House Of Rainbow Fellowship

House Of Rainbow Fellowship is an inclusive and affirming religious community open and welcome to all people including Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Transgender and Intersex people, a monthly gathering of “People of Faith” for “Prayer and Praise”, which focuses on the person’s journey towards reconciliation of sexuality and spirituality.

House Of Rainbow Fellowship aim to provide an inclusive Christian theological focus and interpretation of Scriptures.

The vision of the House Of Rainbow Fellowship was birthed by Reverend Rowland Jide Macaulay, an openly gay African theologian. The style of the House Of Rainbow Fellowship is Pentecostal with “High Praise”, Prayers and Christian fellowship.

All are welcomed including;
• Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Transgender and Intersex people (LGBTI)
• Parents and Friends of LGBTI people

Other important tools and resources:

Websites:
www.houseofrainbow.org
www.rjmm.co.uk
www.wouldjesusdiscriminate.org
www.youtube.com/houseofrainbow

Recommended Books:
Holy Bible
Pocket Devotional for LGBT Christians by Revd Rowland Jide Macaulay
The Children Are Free by Revd Jeff Miner & John Connolly
The Queer Bible Commentary Edited by Guest, Goss, West & Bohache
The Queer God by Marcella Althaus-Reid
Indecent Theology by Marcella Althaus-Reid
Take Back The Word Edited by Goss & West
Biblical Ethics & Homosexuality Edited by Robert L. Brawley
In the Eye of the Storm by Gene Robinson

Contact Us:
House Of Rainbow Fellowship &
Revd Rowland Jide Macaulay Ministries

Email: church@houseofrainbow.org
Phone: +442085583485; +44 (0) 7507 510 357
Find House Of Rainbow on Facebook/Twitter/Youtube
Skype & Yahoo ID; revjide

Information About Local Leaders

2010-12-23T08:07:00.001-08:00

Information About Local Leaders

Volunteer Local Leaders Needed.

Are you Called to be a Local Leader? House Of Rainbow needs you.

Are you a devout Christian?
Do you believe in the inclusive Gospel of Jesus for All people?
Are you able to manage a small group of people?
Are you passionate about helping people?
Can you provide pastoral care?
Are you aged 18 and over?

If you say YES to all the above questions, then contact us for more information at Church@houseofrainbow.org

INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS

Please read these notes carefully before you complete the application form.

• Thank you for expressing interest in a post within House Of Rainbow Fellowship.
• These notes are intended to help you understand the role of Local Leaders. Please read them carefully before you complete and sign the form.
• See below details of the role and responsibilities of Local Leaders. These describe your role and what your position will involve and what we need from the person who is appointed.
• We are inviting you to give us information that will allow us to assess how closely you meet the requirements of Local Leadership. You may draw on all aspects of your life: education, employment, voluntary work, church, interests, and home life, for example.
• There is no education and training, experience, special knowledge and skills, or special qualities and attributes requirements except that we ask for the applicant to be passionate and willing to submit to the authority of the leadership of House Of Rainbow Fellowship Council.
• Please answer all the questions in each section.
• Our policy on references is that we cannot accept references from relatives or members of the family. At least one referee must be from a reputable organisation or member of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex (LGBTI) community.
• Only electronic applications are acceptable. Please scan your signatures for the form.
• We look forward to receiving your application. There are no deadlines for application.

For more Information BY EMAIL ONLY to:

House Of Rainbow Fellowship
e-mail: church@houseofrainbow.org
Telephone: +442085583485
Mobile: +447507510357

HOUSE OF RAINBOW FELLOWSHIP POLICY ON THE RECRUITMENT AND APPOINTMENT OF VOLUNTARY LOCAL LEADERS.

Background
House Of Rainbow Fellowship Local Leader is a voluntary role without any stipend.

The development of Local Leaders is one of the objectives of House Of Rainbow Fellowship, this way we are able to meet the needs of marginalise Christians and or people of faith seeking an alternative safe space to join in corporate prayers, praise, devotion, discussions and bible study.

House Of Rainbow Fellowship Local Leaders initiative is about building a people of power and raising a people of praise

About House Of Rainbow Fellowship
House Of Rainbow Fellowship is an inclusive and affirming religious community open and welcome to all people including Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Transgender and Intersex people, a monthly gathering of “People of Faith” for “Prayer and Praise”, which focuses on the person’s journey towards reconciliation of sexuality and spirituality.

House Of Rainbow Fellowship aim to provide an inclusive Christian theological focus and interpretation of Scriptures.

The vision of the House Of Rainbow Fellowship was birthed by Reverend Rowland Jide Macaulay, an openly gay African theologian. The style of the House Of Rainbow Fellowship is Pentecostal with “High Praise”, Prayers and Christian fellowship.

House of Rainbow Fellowship is not exclusively for LGBTI people, all are welcome, we are not afraid to say that we are reaching out with a primary mission to the marginalised communities within the faith communities.

All are welcomed including;
• Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Transgender and Intersex people (LGBTI)
• Parents and Friends of LGBTI people

Vision of House Of Rainbow Fellowship
House Of Rainbow Fellowship vision is to transform the Christian theology towards inclusion, Biblical teaching, interpretation and understanding that alienates and or discriminates, create a safe space and place for LGBTI people to meet and be celebrated by employing and engaging the ministries of theologians and academics.

Who are Voluntary Local leaders?
Local Leaders must be a practising Christian, they are people who are nominated, self nominated, appointed, selected for leadership etc.

Local Leaders must be aged 18 and over at the time of application.

Local Leaders can be a person of any age, race, background, gender and or sexual orientation. All we ask is that they are grounded in the understanding of inclusive gospel and Christian faith.

They will be responsible for leading prayers, devotion and reaching out to Christians including LGBTI people in the local area.

The group will consist of as little as 4 people and no maximum limits. We encourage a continuous development of smaller groups to avoid hostility in the case of a group getting too large.

They will be encouraged and supported by House Of Rainbow Fellowship Council.

Roles and Responsibilities of Local Leaders.
Local Leaders will organise the monthly meetings of House Of Rainbow Fellowship they will have the responsibility to advertise the time and location and also contact details for those that will attend.

They will take initiative and responsibility for security and safety of the meeting space.

Would at all times maintain integrity, discipline, loyalty and honesty in leadership.

Provide pastoral care to all members.

Teaching and discussion materials for the monthly group will be provided by House Of Rainbow Fellowship. This materials will include video aids, online links, devotional booklets and appropriate books will be supplied free of charge to the members.

Local Leaders will also have the responsibility of building a resource library for their members.

Local leaders will represent and share the information about the work of House Of Rainbow Fellowship locally.

Role of House Of Rainbow Fellowship
Provide support for Local Leaders and keep them informed and up to date of the overall fellowship mandate.

This condition of Voluntary service is not exhaustive and subject to periodic review in consultation with the Local Leader.

Offer technical support to Local Leaders in the implementation of Local Group and provide 6 - 12 monthly review of the Local group, leadership and pastoral care.

A letter of Appointment will be issue to appointed Local Leader only.

Procedure
• A decision to reject an applicant because of, or partly because of inadequate information and insufficient reference, in such situation will may defer the applicant application pending further information.
• Generally, an applicant who is rejected will be advised of the reasons.
• An applicant who is rejected will not have a right of appeal.
• Where an individual is accepted by the House Of Rainbow Fellowship Council, and subsequently it becomes evident that the individual failed to disclose relevant information, the matter will be treated as a disciplinary issue and may result in dismissal.

World AIDS Day 2010 Message from House Of Rainbow

2010-12-01T01:21:00.001-08:00

House OF Rainbow Fellowship World AIDS Day 2010 Message.

In John 9:2-4, Jesus was asked why the man was born blind. “Jesus answered, neither this man nor his parents sinned; he was born blind so that God’s works might be revealed in him.”

We might ask that why are so many millions of people infected or affected with HIV and AIDS, I want you to know that this disease is nothing more than a global tragedy. It is not the will of God that any should suffer.

At House Of Rainbow we take care and time to pray and remember those afflicted by this disease, we pray with them, we touch them with our love and we know that they will always be our brothers and sisters.

HIV has affected all persons from infants to grannies, people of all race, creed, culture and gender, rich and poor nations are engulfed. The world is affected at large.

We suffer with those who suffer and our continuous deepest compassion goes to people and families who have lost their dearest to this disease.

World AIDS Day is a time to remember, acknowledge and celebrate the lives of the departed, may their soul rest in peace. Respect, dignity and prayers for long lives for those who are living with HIV and AIDS. This is a time that we can all acknowledge that the love of God for all people is far more important that the prejudice, stigma and discrimination attached to HIV and AIDS.

As we gather here in our community and all over the world in remembrance and contemplation of World AIDS Day, we pray that God will lead the finding and discovery of a cure. God will guide policy makers, the pharmaceutical and health care officials as they strive to find the best approach, medicinal cure and standard of care. Amen.

House Of Rainbow Goes to Brazil

2010-11-28T09:54:00.000-08:00

House Of Rainbow Fellowship, goes to BRAZIL

1st to 11th December 2010, Sao Paulo Brazil.

Times and Locations to be announced.

House Of Rainbow Fellowship presents a “Daily Prayer and Praise” in Sao Paulo Brazil, with an inclusive gospel of Jesus, celebrating the ineffable love of God for all people. Come Just as you are, to an inclusive space to pray and safe space to praise. www.houseofrainbow.org. For info email: church@houseofrainbow.org

Manchester Welcomes House Of Rainbow Fellowship

2010-11-19T14:18:00.001-08:00

Manchester Welcomes House Of Rainbow Fellowship, listen to an interview with Rev Jide Macaulay with Broadcaster Mike Robinson on Gaydio Radio on 20th November between 9-10am, This is a Manchester based Gay radio station. http://gaydio.co.uk/player

House Of Rainbow Goes to Manchester

2010-11-15T01:37:00.000-08:00

Wednesday 17th November 2010, 6.30pm, House Of Rainbow Fellowship goes to Manchester UK, Pls spread the news to your network. Come Just as you are, to an inclusive space to pray and safe space to praise. Call/text +447507510357 www.houseofrainbow.org.

The Reality of Homosexuality in Africa: The Yoruba Example

2010-11-14T12:45:00.000-08:00

The Reality of Homosexuality in Africa: The Yoruba Example

The Reality of Homosexuality in Africa: The Yoruba Example from Brian Joseph Potter on Vimeo.

Volunteer Local Leaders Needed

2010-11-07T05:10:00.000-08:00

Volunteer Local Leaders Needed.
Are you Called to be a Local Leader? House Of Rainbow needs you.

Are you a devout Christian?
Do you believe in the inclusive Gospel of Jesus for All people?
Are you able to manage a small group of people?
Are you passionate about helping people?
Can you provide pastoral care?
Are you aged 18 and over?

If you say YES to all the above questions, then contact us for more information at Church@houseofrainbow.org

Contact:

House Of Rainbow Fellowship London &
Revd Rowland Jide Macaulay Ministries
Phone +44 (0) 2085583485, +44 (0) 7507 510 357
Email: Church@houseofrainbow.org
Skype & Yahoo ID; revjide
Facebook & Twitter: HouseOfRainbow

ONLINE Ministries
Video Messages; www.youtube.com/houseofrainbow
Web; www.rjmm.co.uk
Web; www.houseofrainbow.org
Web; www.wouldjesusdiscriminate.org/

House Of Rainbow 2010 Dates for your Diary

2010-10-25T09:15:00.001-07:00

About House Of Rainbow Fellowship
House Of Rainbow Fellowship is an inclusive and affirming religious community open and welcome to all people including Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Transgender and Intersex people, a monthly gathering of “People of Faith” for “Prayer and Praise”, which focuses on the person’s journey towards reconciliation of sexuality and spirituality.

House Of Rainbow Fellowship aim to provide an inclusive Christian theological focus and interpretation of Scriptures.

The vision of the House Of Rainbow Fellowship was birthed by Reverend Rowland Jide Macaulay, an openly gay African theologian. The style of the House Of Rainbow Fellowship is Pentecostal with “High Praise”, Prayers and Christian fellowship.

All are welcomed including;
• Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Transgender and Intersex people (LGBTI)
• Parents and Friends of LGBTI people

Other important tools and resources:

Websites:www.houseofrainbow.org
www.wouldjesusdiscriminate.org
www.youtube.com/houseofrainbow

Recommended Books:Holy Bible
The Children Are Free by Revd Jeff Miner & John Connolly
Pocket Devotional for LGBT Christians by Revd Rowland Jide Macaulay
The Queer Bible Commentary Edited by Guest, Goss, West & Bohache
The Queer God by Marcella Althaus-Reid
Indecent Theology by Marcella Althaus-Reid
Take Back The Word Edited by Goss & West
Biblical Ethics & Homosexuality Edited by Robert L. Brawley
In the Eye of the Storm by Gene Robinson

Contact:Reverend Rowland Jide Macaulay
Email: church@houseofrainbow.org
Phone: +442085583485, +44 (0) 7507 510 357

Thursday 4th November 2010, 6.30pm LondonHouse Of Rainbow Fellowship presents a monthly Prayer and Praise evening in London on the first Thursday of the month, with an inclusive gospel of Jesus, celebrating the ineffable love of God for all people. Come Just as you are, to an inclusive space to pray and safe space to praise. www.houseofrainbow.org. For info Call/text +442085583485, +447507510357 email: church@houseofrainbow.org

2010 Dates for your diary:
• Metropolitan Community Church East London 7th Nov @5.30pm
• Manchester Fellowship 17th Nov, 6.30pm
• Sao Paulo Brazil 1-11 Dec, Daily.
• London Fellowship 2nd Dec, 6.30pm.
• Christmas Party by INVITATION ONLY 18th December.

House of Rainbow Fellowship is the place for you. You are welcomed to send your prayer request to us at church@houseofrainbow.org or join our online forum at www.houseofrainbow.org. Wherever we assemble, you can attend our FREE monthly “Prayer and Praise” sessions, refreshments will be served. For more information and details, please contact us or visit our blog www.houseofrainbow.org

Preacher at MCC East London on Sunday 7th Nov 2010, 5.30pmRevd Jide Macaulay will be preaching at MCC East London, join us at the inclusive church, celebrating the ineffable love of God for all people. Come Just as you are. www.houseofrainbow.org. For info Call/text +442085583485, +447507510357 email: church@houseofrainbow.org

House Of Rainbow Fellowship, goes to ManchesterWednesday 17th November 2010, 6.30pm
House Of Rainbow Fellowship presents a monthly Prayer and Praise evening in Manchester, with an inclusive gospel of Jesus, celebrating the ineffable love of God for all people. Come Just as you are, to an inclusive space to pray and safe space to praise. www.houseofrainbow.org. For info Call/text +442085583485, +447507510357 email: church@houseofrainbow.org

House Of Rainbow Fellowship, goes to BRAZIL1st to 11th December 2010, Sao Paulo Brazil.
Times and Locations to be announced.
House Of Rainbow Fellowship presents a “Daily Prayer and Praise” Sao Paulo Brazil, with an inclusive gospel of Jesus, celebrating the ineffable love of God for all people. Come Just as you are, to an inclusive space to pray and safe space to praise. www.houseofrainbow.org. For info Call/text +442085583485, +447507510357 email: church@houseofrainbow.org

Gay Muslims & Gay Christians Celebrate London Gay Pride 2010

2010-10-11T06:40:00.000-07:00

Gay Muslim Pav and Christian leader Revd Jide share a celebratory message to encourage Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Trans and Intersex people at London's Black Gay Pride 2010, a show of solidarity between faith communities. There were over 1,000 people at the event. Introduced by fame Actor Cyril Nri.

Increase Our Faith And Respect For Each Other.

2010-10-03T14:36:00.001-07:00

Increase Our Faith And Respect For Each Other.
By Rowland Jide Macaulay @ Metropolitan Community Church East London
3rd October 2010

Introduction
The Gospel reading Luke 17:5-6 set the tone for the message today, increase our Faith.

5 The apostles said to the Lord, ‘Increase our faith!’ 6The Lord replied, ‘If you had faith the size of a* mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, “Be uprooted and planted in the sea”, and it would obey you”.

How do we increase our faith and respect for each other? Let me leave that question there in your heart and come back to this later.

In the UK the month of October is dedicated to Black History Month celebrated every year. The aims are to promote knowledge of Black History and experience, disseminate information about culture and history of the Black people. There is no doubt that Black people have made many contributions worth celebrating, but we must be mindful of the few Black people who are also causing havoc. What I know is that we all, regardless of race and gender can make a difference in this world. We can increase our faith and respect by standing up against ALL that is evil and unjust.

We may ask what has this got to do with the sermon today, we may ask what has this got to do with my salvation, faith and respect. It has so much to do with it, because our history needed to change from the history of victims to victors, from fear to favour, enslavement to empowerment. There is so much our community need to learn from the Black History. We have often found parallels with the “struggle and fight against racism” with “the struggle and fight against homophobia and transphobia”.

Black History month cannot be complete without Queer or LGBT History, Black History cannot be complete with ALL people’s history, the history of the oppressed cannot be complete without the oppressor, no one speaks about slaves or slavery without the slave masters.

When Habakkuk said, O LORD, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not listen? Or cry to you ‘Violence!’ and you will not save? It sends a message that is recognisable from the Black community who were enslaved because of their blackness to the gay community who are ostracised because of who they are, from London to Lagos, New York to Kampala.

When I examined the Habakkuk Oracle, this is what I found, a strange and endearing similarity between the Black people’s struggle and the LGBTI people’s struggles.

We asked the same questions and face the same issues over all these years, from Biblical times to 21st century days. I don’t have all the answers but I am hoping that my sermon today can lead all of us to some answers.

Let me share five points with you today.

1) O LORD, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not listen? Or cry to you Violence!’ and you will not save?

What Black History month did for us is to teach us the way to face our struggles as a people, first it was about racial discrimination, but now it is discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, I cannot believe that any religious body will be a part of the hate campaign, I would have thought that the Religious communities will be at the centre of healing, reconciliation and welcoming for all people, but I was wrong,

Brothers and sisters, Cry no more, because your salvation has come. The answer for me and for you is in Colossians 3:9-11, which says Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have stripped off the old self with its practices 10and have clothed yourselves with the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge according to the image of its creator. 11In that renewal* there is no longer Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and free; but Christ is all and in all!

2) Why do you make me see wrongdoing and look at trouble?

We are faced daily with wrongdoings and we steer trouble in the face daily. LGBTI people all over the world live in fear every day. Many times when we step out to help others and speak against injustices, we become the problem, in many societies people who are seen as “Human Right Defenders” are often those who look at trouble in the face. What are we doing today to save guard the future of our community?

I received a message from the LGBT centre in New York, which reads “Our Hearts are heavy” the back drop to the message is that six teenage gay and lesbian children have in the last few weeks and months committed suicide because they were bullied for who they are, we need to face wrongdoing, not just for our sake but for the future LGBT generation. I am angry at the fact that there is continued renewal of hate not just towards us but also within us. We are not sharing the message wide enough, we are not raising the bar of LGBT role modelling, the message of love and inclusion is lapsing, we need to create a climate where young LGBT people can be free and be themselves, children should be playing not harming themselves or driven to such harm by bullies.

3) Destruction and violence are before me; strife and contention arise.

There is no doubt that there will be some destruction and violence, there will be strife and contention, people will disagree with us, our theology will not be the favourite one to listen to or to handle, it was the same with the Black theologians, there were opposition. Queer theology is scary for many, because not everyone fits into the same shoe, we seldom sing from the same song sheet. Christianity is a price to pay, it is radical and we have to take the message out there for many millions who not just hate us but for those who might just be saved. Rev Troy D Perry’s Coming Out as a Gay Christian leader in the 1960s saved millions of LGBT people, we also need to do our part. Reverend Dr Martin Luther King Jr and many other Black theologians in history have played their part in the emancipation of Black people and Black theology. Reverend Solomon S. Seay, former head of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, in the United States of America and also a civil rights campaigner alongside Reverend Dr Martin Luther King Jr, said following a fight for equal rights for African American during the Montgomery bus boycotts “If a person doesn’t want to sit beside me because I am dirty, that is my fault. If a person doesn’t want to sit beside me because I am loud, that is my fault too, but if the person doesn’t want to sit beside me because I am black, that is not my fault because God made me black” I dare to add to this note that “If a person doesn’t want to sit beside us because we are Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Transsexuals and Intersex people, then we need to know that it is not our fault, God made us Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual and Intersex people”
It is time for us to increase our faith, action and respect and do something we have never done before. Save a life, save our own lives.

4) So the law becomes slack and justice never prevails.

The laws are too slow to recognise the discrimination, the interventions are bureaucratic, policy makers makes endless promises, but we can make a difference, that is why we have voices, we can speak out, write articles, consider joining a campaign for what is right, I am sure that when people started the discussion about ending slavery, it certainly did not start amongst Black people, because largely they were not responsible for the big ship and the voyage, but I believe that people in our history both Black and White made this happen.

Many days of my life, I was victimised on the grounds of sexual orientation, with faith I have risen to a place where I not only celebrate who I am, Child of the living God, but also work with others, on the journey to reconcile, I have stood in many places challenging governments to change discriminatory laws against LGBT people, from Cameroon to Comoros, Iran to Iraq, Kuwait to Qatar, Guinea to Lesotho.

When we teach, let us speak out against injustice, because if we don’t we only prolong the pain of future generation. I say today that I do the things I do today, not because I see the benefits for me, but I do them because I dream of the benefits for future generations, I want history to record that at least I tried. Brothers and sisters, what will be in your legacy?

5) The wicked surround the righteous— therefore judgement comes forth perverted.

The wicked people are very very powerful, they will suppress the truth. We spend too much time in accusation, when people in politics and religion stand up, to uphold discrimination, my heart bleeds, when the proposals were drawn to end slavery there was violence, there was an attempt to pervert justice. The same is happening today in our world, we must not seat back and allow people Religious or not to judge us for who we are, the Bible says in Jeremiah, Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; Isaiah confirmed “Thus says the LORD, your Redeemer, who formed you in the womb: I am the LORD, who made all things, who alone stretched out the heavens, who by myself spread out the earth.”

Many millions of people are threatened by the actions of the ignorant few, families are scattered, there is a surge in suicidal tendencies and the health of the people declined.

I take refuge in the word of God, I am not stubborn, but I refuse to allow the negativity of these ignorant actions to get through my heart, mind and skin. It is not an easy place to be, however, when people ask me where in the scriptures does it say that God loves or indeed creates homosexual, I want to let you know that the Bible points to more verses of inclusion than exclusion. God is responsible for LGBTI people and it is only God that can love us as we too are the original imprint of God’s love and never a secondary group of people.

Hebrew 11:1-3, Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. 2Indeed, by faith* our ancestors received approval. 3By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible.*

What are we hoping for? a world that will accept us and not kill or dehumanise LGBT people. Even though we have not seen justice we must begin to celebrate the freedom and liberation, just like our ancestors. If we believe by faith that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, then we must begin to live and love who we are, even though we may be invisible to the other inhabitants.

Conclusion
Let me conclude with Paul’s letter to Timothy, which says I am grateful to God—whom I worship with a clear conscience, as my ancestors did—when I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. 4Recalling your tears, I long to see you so that I may be filled with joy. 5I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that lived first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, lives in you. 6For this reason I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is within you through the laying on of my hands; 7for God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline. 8 Do not be ashamed, then, of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God, 9who saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works but according to his own purpose and grace.

I recognise that calling in you today, I recognise that calling in Michael Jackson who has gone before us. Black History month is about our ancestors, the joy, the liberation, the pain, the injustices, we must today bring a change to the world we live in. Michael Jackson in one of his many revolutionary songs sang about healing the world, make it a better place.

There's A Place In Your Heart
And I Know That It Is Love
And This Place Could
Be Much Brighter Than Tomorrow
And If You Really Try
You'll Find There's No Need To Cry
In This Place You'll Feel
There's No Hurt Or Sorrow

Heal The World
Make It A Better Place
For You And For Me
And The Entire Human Race
There Are People Dying
If You Care Enough For The Living
Make A Better Place
For You And For Me

In order to increase our faith we need to step out of the shadow of fear and work against all the injustices, we need to be comfortable with who we are, not what people want us to be or say we are. The gospel reading is a response that we can do anything if we have faith. The Lord replied, ‘If you had faith the size of a* mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, “Be uprooted and planted in the sea”, and it would obey you.

As we seek reconciliation we would be empowered knowing that God’s love was given to us when we were formed in our mother’s womb, and this is how we increase our faith and respect for each other.

God bless you. God bless our universe, Amen.

House Of Rainbow Fellowship Prayer and Praise 7th October 2010.

2010-09-30T08:13:00.000-07:00

Thursday 7th October 2010, 6.30pm House Of Rainbow Fellowship presents a monthly Prayer and Praise evening in London on the first Thursday of the month, with an inclusive gospel of Jesus, celebrating the ineffable love of God for all people. Come Just as you are, to an inclusive space to pray and safe space to praise. www.houseofrainbow.org For info Call/text +447507510357 email: church@houseofrainbow.org

2010 Dates for your diary: 4th November, 2nd December

Five Days To Go: House Of Rainbow FORUM is Moving

2010-09-13T07:35:00.001-07:00

Dearly Beloved Friends,

Five Days To Go: House Of Rainbow FORUM is Moving

I trust all is well with you, I am extremely delighted and thankful to God for this webpage. However, we shall be moving the forum to another service provider who has kindly donated the space to us free of charge.

We would move on or before the 18th September, we would continue to keep you up to date with further instructions.

We are also on;

Facebook: HouseOfRainbow

Twitter: HouseOfRainbow

Youtube: HouseOfRainbow

Email: church@houseofrainbow.org

Webpage: www.houseofrainbow.org

Telephone: +44 (0) 208 558 3485

Mobile: +44 (0)7507 510 357

More love more power

Revd Rowland Jide Macaulay

10 Days To Go: House Of Rainbow FORUM is Moving

2010-09-07T08:04:00.001-07:00

10 Days To Go: House Of Rainbow http://spiritualityandsexuality.ning.com/ FORUM is Moving. I trust all is well with you, I am extremely delighted and thankful to God for this webpage. However, we shall be moving the forum to another service provider. We would move on or before the 18th September, we would continue to keep you up to date with further instructions. We are also on; Facebook/Twitter/Youtube: HouseOfRainbow. Email: church@houseofrainbow.org, Web: www.houseofrainbow.org, Phone: +44 (0)7507 510 357

Hatred In the Name Of Jesus

2010-09-05T04:33:00.001-07:00

HATRED IN THE NAME OF JESUS.

Dear Friends, I try so much not to blog the hatred I get daily in my email and also posted on all our webpages, I am posting this one below because I need your prayers for strength and endurance.

bbenjam1050 has posted a comment on your profile:

JIDE YOU ARE DEVIL INCARNATED!! YOU ARE BLASPHAMY THE NAME OF MY GOD JESUS AND YOU DONT DESERVE TO LIVE. BUT TO STONE YOU UNTIL YOU DIE A VERY PAINFUL DEATH FOR LEADING PEOPLE ASTRY AND FOR BLASPEMY AGAINST THE GOD OF ABRAHAM, ISSAC AND JACOB. THE CREATOR OF UNIVERSE AND EARTH.

JerryTatum posted a comment:

Not only are you going to Hell, but your taking other with you, with your teaching .that is your greatest sin .I turn you over to Satan for the destruction of your flesh ,that your soul might be save.repent now

I am a living testimony of the love of God and if anything could be of any asssurance is the Bible Reading in the Christian Lectionary today Luke 14:26 ‘Whoever comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and even life itself, cannot be my disciple. 27Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple"

I stand by God with my Homosexuality and I believe that I am guaranteed a place in Heaven with Jesus and all the saints before me.

The Principle of Reconciliation for me and many Homosexual Children of the living God is enshrined in Scripture.

Please read.

A)

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's own people,* in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

B)

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit* of life in Christ Jesus has set you* free from the law of sin and of death.

C) In that renewal* there is no longer Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and free; but Christ is all and in all!

What the Religious Haters are doing is Selective Discrimination out of ignorance and the greatest understanding of the ineffable love of God for ALL his children, Jesus said to the Pharisees after their action to discriminated against a blind man. Jesus heard that they had driven him out, and when he found him, he said, 'Do you believe in the Son of Man?'* 36He answered, 'And who is he, sir?* Tell me, so that I may believe in him.' 37Jesus said to him, 'You have seen him, and the one speaking with you is he.' 38He said, 'Lord,* I believe.' And he worshipped him. 39Jesus said, 'I came into this world for judgement so that those who do not see may see, and those who do see may become blind.' 40Some of the Pharisees near him heard this and said to him, 'Surely we are not blind, are we?' 41Jesus said to them, 'If you were blind, you would not have sin. But now that you say, "We see", your sin remains.

I leave them with their conscience, I am not at all worried. I repented when I accepted God into my life because He approves of my humanity including my Homosexuality. This is my TESTIMONY.

PROJECT: An opportunity to Broadcast on Radio

2010-08-31T10:44:00.001-07:00

There is an opportunity to Broadcast on Radio in the UK and I am looking for people with ideas so we can collaborate. A community Radio has airtime to award and it will be a great opportunity to start "Gay Africa Radio".

Aim

Broadcast LGBT issues on the airwaves as they affect LGBTI people of Africa descent in the UK and also highlight many activities and news from around the world related to Africans, at home and abroad.

What are we looking for at this stage?

People with incredible ideas, you do not need to be an expert in broadcasting.

Topical issues connecting/relating to Homosexuality in Africa and for LGBTI people of African Descent abroad.

If you are interest or want to be part of the project, it doesnt matter where you are as we can work electronically, please contact me on +44208558 3485 or +447507510357.

regards

Rowland Jide Macaulay

House Of Rainbow is Four Years Old

2010-08-30T11:13:00.000-07:00

House Of Rainbow was founded by Revd Rowland Jide Macaulay, a Christian community welcoming and affirming to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex people in Nigeria. A Bible believing ministry that also welcome people of other faith. Webpage www.houseofrainbow.org, www.twitter.com/houseofrainbow, www.facebook.com/houseofrainbow, email us at church@houseofrainbow.org, +447507510357

RJMM.CO.UK - Update

2010-08-23T02:26:00.001-07:00

RE: RJMM.CO.UK

"Our business is a consultancy, service provision on education and support of Human Rights affecting Sexual Minority of African Descent. We have a great understanding of the politics of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in Africa with a background of 15 years collective experience in this field".

I am writing to you to inform you of our products and services and would welcome further collaborations with you and your organisation. For your conveniences I have listed the products and services of RJMM.CO.UK below.

We would appreciate if you will;

1.Browse our webpage at www.rjmm.co.uk
2.Let us know how we can be of service to you
3.What products or services you are interested in
4.Call or email to arrange a time to discuss your requirements.

Products and Services

■Expert Advisor and Researcher on Sexuality and Immigration
■Training and Information on Human Rights and Activism, Sexual Health & Rights
■General Consultation on LGBTI Human Rights
■NGO representative at the United Nations Human Rights Council
■Country Specific Report and Analysis on Sexual Minority
■Motivational Speaker/Panellist
■Conference leader/Project Management
■Liberal Theologian/Preacher
■TV/Radio Participation/Expert contributor
■Human Rights Activist, Author and Publisher
■Workshop & Seminar Manager
■Radio Production/Presenter

(First Consultation and Enquiries are free)

Many Regards

Rowland Jide Macaulay

ConsultantRJMM.CO.UKTelephone: +44 (0) 2085583485,

Mobile: +44 (0) 7507 510 357

Email: info@rjmm.co.uk

House Of Rainbow Online FORUM is Moving

2010-08-19T05:36:00.001-07:00

http://spiritualityandsexuality.ning.com/

Dearly Beloved Friends,

I trust all is well with you, I am extremely delighted and thankful to God for this webpage. However, we shall be moving the forum to another service provider who has kindly donated the space to us free of charge.

We would move on or before the 18th September, we would continue to keep you up to date with further instructions.

We are also on;

Facebook: HouseOfRainbow

Twitter: HouseOfRainbow

Youtube: HouseOfRainbow

Email: church@houseofrainbow.org

Webpage: www.houseofrainbow.org

Telephone: +44 (0) 208 558 3485

Mobile: +44 (0)7507 510 357

More love more power

Revd Rowland Jide Macaulay

House Of Rainbow Celebrates on Thursday 2nd September 2010, 6.30pm

2010-08-17T10:25:00.001-07:00

House Of Rainbow Celebrates on Thursday 2nd September 2010, 6.30pm

We celebrate;
4th Year anniversary of House Of Rainbow Nigeria
7th monthly Prayer and Praise in London UK
An inclusive gospel of Jesus,
The ineffable love of God for all people.
An inclusive space to pray and safe space to praise.

You are invited, Come Just as you are;
Location: London United Kingdom
Web: www.houseofrainbow.org
Call/text +447507510357,
email: church@houseofrainbow.org

House Of Rainbow Online

2010-08-09T03:32:00.000-07:00

Dearly Beloved Friends,

Re: http://spiritualityandsexuality.ning.com/

Very soon this forum and online page will close as the owners have decided to add a subscription for its use. We have enjoyed the forum for nearly two years and generated 100s of videos and discussion, we have prayed together, shared devotion, raise many issues.

There are currently 575 members and growing.

We are working to moving our information and sharing page to http://www.houseofrainbow.org, please make a note of this for to be able to connect with us in future.

More Grace More Power

Rev Rowland Jide Macaulay
House Of Rainbow Fellowship London
+44 (0) 2085583485, +44 (0) 7507 510 357

House Of Rainbow Metropolitan Community Church, Lagos Nigeria
+234 1 741 0978, +234 (0)805 241 7256
+234 (0) 805 256 7170 Nigeria

Revd Rowland Jide Macaulay Ministries
Skype & Yahoo ID; revjide
http://www.facebook.com/RowlandJideMacaulay
Alternative email; revjide@yahoo.com

ONLINE Ministries
Video Messages; www.youtube.com/houseofrainbow
Web; www.rjmm.co.uk
Web; www.houseofrainbow.org
Web; www.mccchurch.org
Web; http://www.wouldjesusdiscriminate.org/

House Of Rainbow Fellowship London AUGUST 2010

2010-07-31T14:20:00.000-07:00

House Of Rainbow Fellowship Prayer and Praise August 2010.

Thursday 5th August 2010, 6.30pm
House Of Rainbow Fellowship presents a monthly Prayer and Praise evening in London on the first Thursday of the month 5th August, from 6.30pm to 8pm, with an inclusive gospel of Jesus, celebrating the ineffable love of God for all people. Come Just as you are, to an inclusive space to pray and safe space to praise. www.houseofrainbow.org For info Call/text +447507510357, email: church@houseofrainbow.org

Video: Africa's Last Taboo: must see documentary now on YouTube

2010-07-28T05:59:00.001-07:00

Video: Africa's Last Taboo: must see documentary now on YouTube
By Paul Canning

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZyEFfL9GbRw

Dispatches is UK TV channel Channel 4’s highly successful, sometimes controversial pioneering documentary series that critically covers a vast range of topics and areas.

In a recent episode entitled ‘Africa’s Last Taboo’, Sierra Leonean filmmaker and reporter Sorious Samura traveled across Africa.

In Mtwapa, Kenya, the scene of an attempted pogrom of gays which followed false reports of a 'gay wedding' earlier this year (see our reports), he begins to discover the levels of hate and prejudice that are driven not only by communities, but also religious organisations and governments, and meets some of the young men who have suffered because they are gay.

"They would have burned him alive." "Because he's gay?" "Because he's gay," he is told.

Amazingly Samura asks some of those who participated in the pogrom, "if I was to say to you now I was gay, what would have happened?"

A local Imam and bishop confirm to him that gays should be killed.

The man dragged from the HIV clinic in Mtwapa, Kenya, HIV/Aids clinic - in pictures which went around the world - tells Samura that he had been warned by police that he would be killed.

He says he lives in fear. His mother supports him but his father does not.

Another Kenyan gay man tells says Samura of how he was attacked and had paraffin poured on him.

I heard someone shouting "put a fire on him".
To those who did this he said:

I cannot say anything to him. I think we have no rights, gays have no freedom.
Samura tracks down a riot leader caught on video who says if it is his brother who is gay or "my son, I will burn him."

In an interview with an HIV+ gay male sex worker, who is raising his young sister in a hovel, the common belief of his often married clients is that anal sex is less risky than vaginal sex.

This attack on a clinic providing HIV-focussed services, including to gay men, highlights how same-sex transmission is often treated, or more usually ignored, in much of Africa. "Many [gay men] are dying needlessly", says Samura.

Unfortunately Samura does not report on the follow up work which civil rights groups did following the attempted pogrom. This work shows that such homophobia can be countered by well supported grass-roots work.

Mbale in Uganda, host of a large anti-gay rally in April, is where Fred Wasukira and his then partner Brian were arrested and were held in custody. Samura conducts an astonishing interview with the local police about how they were caught and this results in the policeman interviewed pontificating on the 'use of the anus'. He speaks to the doctor who examined them to prove they'd had sex. The doctor agrees that in doing this he was violating their human rights.

Samura interviews Fred, now in Kampala and staying with his sister. She say that customers in her restaurant have threatened to desert her because of her support for her brother: "they don't want him to touch plates, our drinks or anything."

At a bar in Kampala where gays are accepted and can "queenie around" Samura meets a man who a gay activist has had a crush on. Told by the man that "I've already says no", Samura asks "You're not going to give up?"

The activist, Gerard, tells him about his life in Uganda: "it's about being abused every day."

He attends a Christian rally where Lou Engle, notorious American anti-gay activist, is in attendance alongside numerous white Americans. The Ugandan pastor says that the disavowal by US evangelicals of Uganda's 'kill the gays' bill is 'just for the media'.

Samura confronts the pastor with a former worker for his church who is gay (it's Gerard, the gay activist). He dismisses him saying "homosexuality is a Western colonisation."

After a pointless hour's discussion, where the pastor says tells him he should be imprisoned, Gerard says:

Whether they like it or not, we exist. Whether the laws are here or not, we shall be here.
In Malawi he asks human rights activist Dunker Kamba outside the trial of Stephen Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga about the idea that homosexuality is 'un-Africa'. Says Kamba, how come we have a traditional word for a homosexual from before the British colonialists imposed a law?

Samura visits Tiwonge in prison and comes away moved and shocked. He speaks with gay men, who are disguised, in Malawi. "Everybody's afraid, we are living undrground", he is told.

Malawi's our home. Where we are supposed to live? But it seems as if we are somewhere where it is not our home.

We want to be free.
He visits Tiwonge after his release. Tiwonge says when the pardon was announced that the other inmates "lifted me up in the air. They were dancing, some were crying."

Asked about his challenge to Malawi's attitude to gays Tiwonge says:

Everyone is born free. Freedom is for everyone and should not be limited.

I cannot change. I won't change. I'll be this way until I die.

Samura wrote for Channel Four about his experiences making Africa's Last Taboo and the prevailing attitude towards sexuality in Africa.

According to an old African proverb, or should I say according to conventional wisdom, 'a child doesn't just get up and walk, it will first of all learn to crawl' – and the same goes for every race on earth.

There's a lot of talk in the Western media and even classrooms today about sexual attitudes but in Africa we still find the word 'sex' extremely difficult to mention, let alone discuss. Even now as a full grown man with my own children, I cannot talk about sex, or menstruation or even childbirth with my old man because to him all these are taboos, and he gets really angry whenever I try to.

There are a lot of things my dad and his mates would not entertain, but the one thing that makes them go mad even today is when somebody tries to talk to them about gay and lesbians. 'They are devils, evil bastards or nasty animals not fit to be amongst human beings'. These are just some of the words my father and his friends would use to describe gay people and this was exactly how my friends and I, and millions more across Africa, were brought up to view homosexuals.

Somehow we used to be a bit tolerant towards girls, because it was always rumoured that girls in boarding homes tend to have sex with each other, but we always concluded that this was something they would outgrow.

I was one of those who would tease and provoke you until you broke if we suspected you had gay tendencies. We would perhaps set you up to fight with girls we believed could beat you up – and once you lost that fight we would then start giving you all sorts of female names – but that was as far as it would go. We just had no way to talk about it to our parents, even when found two boys having sex, or dressing or behaving like girls. We would simply refer to them as dirty.

But we never even knew the word 'homosexual' existed. For me and for most of my friends, the word 'gay' or 'homosexual' only made it into our vocabularies when we were in our mid or late teens.

So it was a real challenge for me personally to make this film. It was really tough to confront some of the men who were now standing up against gay men in my continent because I knew exactly where they were coming from and what they would think about me – and it wasn't long before respectable men like Bishop Oyet in Uganda started questioning my sexuality. I spent a lot more time off camera answering questions about my sexuality than I spent interviewing some of the characters in the film.

We found out in some of these countries we filmed that, on top of coping with the rejection by their communities, it was pressure from religious leaders that has made it more difficult for gay and lesbians to come out about their sexuality in Africa – and not only African religious leaders either. We found American Christian preachers who had come over to help their African brethren in their fight against homosexuality. We also found out that not only has this homophobia led to a lack of sexual education but it also plays a significant role in the increasing prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Africa.

There is no doubt that this topic is clearly one of the last few taboos that still remains in Africa. As the Western world was some 30 years ago, the people of Africa are still on a journey of understanding, learning to crawl before they can walk.
The documentary can be viewed on Youtube.

What Is Happening About Town?

2010-07-22T01:15:00.001-07:00

What is happening about town?

• Thursday 22nd July 3 to 4pm I will be at Voice for Africa Radio Station 94.3fm doing a Live Interview, this will be broadcast in to the London Area. Tune in.
• Saturday 24th July- 11am to 4pm Volunteers Open day at the Rukus Federation, this is a Black LGBT archiving event at Kairos in Soho. You can arrive anytime. FREE entry
• Saturday 24th July 6pm Nigerian film “The Fake Prophet” by Teco Benson, cost from £10. You can see the trailer at - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBfZQqTh2Fw, Call ticket hotline 0845 313 8391
• Sunday 25th July , St Barnabas Anglican church is having a special service at 10am followed by a BBQ, all are welcomed, St Barnabas Road London E17, FREE entry
• Saturday 31st July Quiz night 6.30pm at the Stoke Newington Methodist Church, if you are interested we can form a team for House Of Rainbow and or just enjoy the event. £10 per person
• Saturday 31st July from 10pm/midnight, The Victoria Bar Party, one of the local night clubs in Walthamstow, 186 Hoe Street London E17, £5 before midnight.
• Tuesday 3rd Aug, 6 to 10.30pm I will be on a Panel discussion at a national event in Bethnal Green organised by Big UP. FREE entry
• Thursday 5th Aug is the next House Of Rainbow Fellowship at 6.30-8pm, tagged Sing, Clap and Dance in East London, FREE entry
• Saturday 7th Aug is the Gay Pride in Brighton
• Saturday 14th Aug is the UK Black Gay Pride in London. I have been asked to lead a workshop and I am hoping to get tickets for the group. Talk soon and have a great day. visit website: www.ukblackpride.org.uk/ or email us on: info@ukblackpride.org.uk

For more information please call +44(0)7507510357 or visit www.houseofrainbow.org

Four Ways to Volunteer with House Of Rainbow

2010-07-13T02:27:00.001-07:00

Four Ways to Volunteer with House Of Rainbow

1) Lead a local small group,
2) share your talents, gift and time
3) promote our inclusive mission
4) become our facebook administrator.

See www.houseofrainbow.org

The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to want. (Prov 21:5).

BBC Radio World Service with Revd Rowland Jide Macaulay

2010-07-07T08:14:00.001-07:00

"A BBC Radio World Service Interview with Rev Jide

Click Here to listen http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/console/p008grqh "

Broadcasts
Wed 7 Jul 201012:32BBC World Service.Wed 7 Jul 201016:32BBC World Service.Thu 8 Jul 201000:32BBC World Service.Thu 8 Jul 201004:32BBC World Service.Sat 10 Jul 201005:32BBC World Service.Sat 10 Jul 201020:05BBC World Service.Sun 11 Jul 201002:05BBC World Service.Sun 11 Jul 201011:32BBC World Service.Sun 11 Jul 201023:05BBC World Service

Jide Macaulay was born into a devout Pentecostal Christian family in Lagos, Nigeria. His father is a well-known theologian.

As a child, Jide loved church more than playing with his friends.

But around the age of 11, he began to become aware that he was different from other boys.

Much to his horror, he realised that he was gay.

In conversation with Michael Ford, Jide recalls the inner conflicts he went through as a teenager and a young man, in a country where it is almost inconceivable that anyone can be both a committed Christian and homosexual.

We hear how he learnt to embrace his orientation after a failed marriage.

Leaving behind the deep shame he had felt, he founded a church for gay and lesbian people in Lagos: the House of Rainbow.

Driven out of the country by death threats, Jide now continues his ministry to African gay and lesbian Christians from his home in London, through a vibrant "virtual" church. He has become a well-known voice in Africa and beyond.

OPEN LETTER TO HOMOPHOBES - THE TRUTH

2010-07-05T06:18:00.001-07:00

Open Letter to Homophobes.

Far too many people play God and dehumanize Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Trans, and Intersex people throughout the world, in every culture, race, background etc.

The discrimination is so bad that it leaves many LGBTI people wondering and asking questions. This letter to Homophobes is being reproduced to answer many questions people have asked me.

Both heterosexuals and homosexual people, People of all faith have claimed that homosexuality is an abomination according to Leviticus 18:22 and cannot be condoned under any circumstance.

The following is an open letter to all Homophobes...(I also pray and hope that gay people will learn that they are children of the living God.)

Dear Homophobes,

Thank you for doing so much to educate people regarding God's Law. I have learned a great deal from your bigoted rhetoric, and try to share that knowledge with as many people as I can. When someone tries to defend the homosexual lifestyle, they are clobbered with Leviticus 18:22 which clearly state it to be an abomination...End of debate.

I do need some advice from you, however, regarding some other elements of God's Laws and how to follow them.

1. Leviticus 25:44 states that I may possess slaves, both male and female, provided they are purchased from neighbouring nations. A friend of mine claims that this applies to Mexicans, but not Canadians. Can you clarify? Why can't I own Canadians?

2. I would like to sell my daughter into slavery, as sanctioned in Exodus 21:7. In this day and age, what do you think would be a fair price for her?

3. I know that I am allowed no contact with a woman while she is in her period of menstrual uncleanliness - Lev.15: 19-24. The problem is how do I tell? I have tried asking, but most women take offense.

4. When I burn a bull on the altar as a sacrifice, I know it creates a pleasing odour for the Lord - Lev.1:9. The problems are my neighbours. They claim the odour is not pleasing to them. Should I smite them?

5. I have a neighbour who insists on working on the Sabbath. Exodus 35:2. Clearly states he should be put to death. Am I morally obligated to kill him myself, or should I ask the police to do it?

6. A friend of mine feels that even though eating shellfish is an abomination - Lev. 11:10, it is a lesser abomination than homosexuality. I don't agree. Can you settle this? Are there 'degrees' of abomination?

7. Lev. 21:20 states that I may not approach the altar of God if I have a defect in my sight. I have to admit that I wear reading glasses. Does my vision have to be 20/20, or is there some wiggle-room here?

8. Most of my male friends get their hair trimmed, including the hair around their temples, even though this is expressly forbidden by Lev. 19:27. How should they die?

9. I know from Lev. 11:6-8 that touching the skin of a dead pig makes me unclean, but may I still play football if I wear gloves?

10. My uncle has a farm. He violates Lev.19:19 by planting two different crops in the same field, as does his wife by wearing garments made of two different kinds of thread (cotton/polyester blend). He also tends to curse and blaspheme a lot. Is it really necessary that we go to all the trouble of getting the whole town together to stone them? Lev.24:10-16. Couldn't we just burn them to death at a private family affair, like we do with people who sleep with their in-laws? (Lev. 20:14)

I know you have studied these things extensively and thus enjoy considerable expertise in such matters, so I am confident you can help.

Thank you again for reminding us that God's word is eternal and unchanging.

The Other Child of the living God.

Ten Ways You Can Follow House Of Rainbow

2010-06-30T03:17:00.001-07:00

Ten Ways you can follow House Of Rainbow;

1) Join or Start a local group,
2) Email your prayers to us at church@houseofrainbow.org,
3) Visit our web site www.houseofrainbow.org,
4) Join our e-forum http://spiritualityandsexuality.ning.com/
5) Watch video messages, www.youtube.com/houseofrainbow,
6) Twitter and Facebook - HouseOfRainbow,
7) Chat on Yahoo/Skype; REVJIDE
8) Call/SMS +447507510357,
9) Prayer & Helpline +442085583485
10) Monthly Prayer and Praise fellowship.

Why Do Christians Discriminate?

2010-06-26T10:36:00.001-07:00

Why do Christian Discriminate? If you have accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior, you can be sure you are a Christian. You are not a Christian because you go to church, or because you do good things. The Bible says "If you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved" (Romans 10:9). Christ came to die for our sins, so that "To all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God" (John 1:12) visit www.houseofrainbow.org God Bless.

US Sec of State Hillary R Clinton Celebrates LGBT Pride 2010

2010-06-23T02:46:00.001-07:00

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton delivers opening remarks at an event celebrating LGBT Pride Month at the Department of State in Washington, DC June 22, 2010 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x66HWNjMPmQ, honor to the struggles of African LGBT Activists.

BBC Radio World Service with Revd Rowland Jide Macaulay

2010-06-21T06:59:00.001-07:00

BBC Radio World Service with Revd Rowland Jide Macaulay

Heart and Soul series on the

“Spiritual Dynamics of Fame, Blame, and Shame”

Date: Wednesday 7th July 2010 @ 12:32 and 16:32.

In subsequent weeks, the same pattern is repeated for the programmes

Thursday 0032; 0532;
Saturday 0532; 2005;
Sunday 0205; 1132; 1132; 2305.

How to listen On the radio:
It's easy to listen to the BBC World Service in the UK if you have a DAB radio or TV digibox, both of which carry the World Service. For details on how and when best to listen elsewhere in the world, please use the following link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/programmeguide/

On the Internet:
If you have a PC with loudspeakers, another good way to listen in the UK or anywhere else in the world is via the Internet. This is the relevant link:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/programmes/2009/03/000000_heartandsoul.shtml You can listen to each programme there from around lunchtime on the Wednesday it starts its run. You can listen in your own time, or download your programme as a free podcast during the week following the first transmission. If you miss that date, you can still listen via our online archive using the link above (click on "Listen to previous episodes").

Contact: Revd Rowland Jide Macaulay
Email: Church@houseofrainbow.org
YouTube/Twitter/Facebook: HouseOfRainbow
Phone: +442085583485, +447507510357
Web: www.houseofrainbow.org

Exporting Hate to Africa

2010-06-19T01:16:00.001-07:00

Exporting Hate to Africa Part 1.

Exporting Hate to Africa Part 2.

Your Questions about Homosexuality Discussed at Church

2010-06-15T00:43:00.000-07:00

House Of Rainbow Fellowship London Answers your Questions

"ADVANCE NOTICE: Thursday 1st July 2010, 6.30pm House Of Rainbow Fellowship London, Monthly Prayer and Praise. If you have any question, "What the Bible says about Homosexuality", please send to Church@houseofrainbow.org for consideration. Next month we are going to have an interactive and Holy Spirit filled meeting, come and be a part of what God is doing in our lives. Come along and Please pass on the invitation."

Speaker; Revd Rowland Jide Macaulay
Location; London
Time/Date; 6:30pm 1st July 2010
Phone:+447507510357

In Memoriam: Late Dare Odumuye - Gone Three Years

2010-06-02T10:39:00.001-07:00

In Memoriam: Late Dare Odumuye – Gone Three Years.

Many Nigerians would remember the noble Late Dare Odumuye aka Erelu, he was a champion for human and sexual rights of sexual minorities in Nigeria, he spoke and debated the issues with the state and federal government on the inclusion of sexual minorities in the health manifesto.

Sadly on the 20th May 2007, aged 41, he died living his legacy of activism to many people. Today in Nigeria, many people enjoy the ability of access to peer education, sexual health and international human rights trainings.

He was a member of House Of Rainbow MCC Nigeria and the sole founder and Late President of Alliance Right Nigeria, an organization which advocated for the rights of Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Trans and Intersex (LGBTI) people in Nigeria since 1999, provided Sexual health information, Advice, Seminars and Training programme.

We remember him on the third anniversary of this sad loss to the thriving LGBTI community, there is no doubt in our minds that the Nigerian LGBTI History will not be complete without you.

Since you passed away many good and bad things have happened to us, but you thought us never to give up.

We learnt from your selfless struggles to speak out, stand up and defend LGBTI people, we recall how much you travelled the length and breadth of the nation and the globe to represent our battles.

We carry on the torch of hope you light for us in to the waiting darkness and focus on claiming equal rights for all sexual minorities, in Politics, Sexual and Social Health, and societal equality. We continue your legacy to combat discrimination on the grounds of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity.

We have not forgotten you and will never forget you. Matthew 22:30 “For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven”

House Of Rainbow MCC Lagos Nigeria, continue to remember him in our prayers and thoughts and trust that he will never be forgotten. Continue to rest in the peace of our Lord until we meet again.

Missionaries of Hate

2010-06-01T08:30:00.001-07:00

In "Missionaries of Hate," correspondent Mariana van Zeller travels to Uganda, where many question whether the growing influence of American religious groups has led to a movement to make homosexuality a crime punishable by death.

Missionary of Hate Part 1

Missionary of Hate Part 2

Missionary of Hate Part 3

Missionary of Hate Part 4

Missionary of Hate Part 5

Missionary of Hate Part 6

House Of Rainbow Fellowship London JUNE 2010

2010-06-01T06:01:00.000-07:00

House Of Rainbow Fellowship Prayer and Praise June 2010.

Thursday 3rd June 2010, 6.30pm
House Of Rainbow Fellowship presents a monthly Prayer and Praise evening in London on the first Thursday of the month 3rd June, from 6.30pm to 8pm, with an inclusive gospel of Jesus, celebrating the ineffable love of God for all people. Come Just as you are, to an inclusive space to pray and safe space to praise. www.houseofrainbow.org For info Call/text +447507510357, email: church@houseofrainbow.org

Sunday 6th June 2010, 11am
Join the Celebration Service at Green Lanes Methodist Church London. Preacher Revd Jide Macaulay. You are invited, also pass on the invitation to your friends. for more details contact Call/Text 07507510357

Date: Sunday, June 6, 2010
Time: 11:00am - 6:30pm
Location: Green Lanes Methodist Church in North London
Street: 132 Green Lanes London N16 9EG
City/Town: London, United Kingdom

Sunday 6th June 2010, 5.30pm
Message: You are invited to join "A Service of Prayer and Praise in honor of Malawian Tiwonge and Steven" at Metropolitan Community Church in East London, For more information please call/text 07958115269 or 07507510357. Preacher Rev Jide Macaulay, Pastor House Of Rainbow Nigeria. Please circulate and invite a friend.

Date: Sunday, June 6, 2010
Time: 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Location: Metropolitan Community Church in East London
Street: 159 Miles End Road London E1 4AQ
City/Town: London, United Kingdom

London Protest: Free Steven and Tiwonge 29th May 2010

2010-05-28T00:52:00.001-07:00

LONDON: Protest for Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, Freedom for Homosexuals in Africa.
Saturday, 29th May 2010, From 1pm to 2.30pm, Location Outside Malawi High Commission London, 70 Winnington Road London N2 0TX. Come along, pass on the information,
www.houseofrainbow.org

Four Ways to Support Tiwonge and Steven

2010-05-26T06:07:00.001-07:00

ACTION: Support Tiwonge and Steven in prison in Malawi

Four things you can do to support our heroes

London - 21 May 2010

Big thanks to everyone who has shown their concern and anger at the outrageous 14-year jail term handed down to Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga in Malawi.

Here are three ways you can help:

FIRST

Send a letter or postcard of support to Steven and Tiwonge. In this difficult time, they need to know that people around the world love and support them. Get all your friends to do the same. Write to:

Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza, Prisoners, Chichiri Prison,
P.O.Box 30117, Chichiri, Blantyre 3, Malawi

SECOND

Write a letter to your elected political representative. Urge him or her to write a letter of protest to Malawian President and to the Malawian Ambassador in your country.

If you live in the UK:
Email your MP and all your MEPs via this website: www.writetothem.com

Ask your MP and MEPs to protest to the Malawian President and to the Malawi High Commission in London.

Ask your MP to sign Early Day Motion 564, which protests against the prosecution of Tiwonge and Steven. See here:
http://edmi.parliament.uk/EDMi/EDMDetails.aspx?EDMID=40143&SESSION=903

THIRD

Sign Madonna's petition which condemns the jailing of Steven and Tiwonge and which calls for equality and human rights:
http://www.raisingmalawi.org/AddYourName

FOURTH

Make a donation by post or BACS electronic transfer to the Malawi Defence Campaign, organised the UK-based LGBT organisation OutRage!
OutRage! will use all money donated to support Tiwonge and Steven with food parcels, medicine, clothes, blankets etc. and to help fund the campaign for their release.

By BACS electronic transfer:
Account name: OutRage!
Bank: Alliance and Leicester Commercial Bank, Bootle, Merseyside, GIR
0AA, England, UK
Account number: 77809302
Sort code: 72-00-01
For electronic transfers from overseas (outside the UK), please
ADDITIONALLY quote these codes:
BIC: ALEIGB22
IBAN: GB65ALE1720001778093 02

By cheque:
Write a cheque payable to "OutRage!" and send to OutRage!, PO Box 17816, London SW14 8WT. Enclose a note giving your name and address and stating that your donation is for the Malawi Defence campaign.

Thanks for your concern and commitment to justice for Tiwonge and Steven.

Solidarity! Peter Tatchell, OutRage!

www.petertatchell.net

www.outrage.org.uk

PRESS RELEASE: Pan Africa ILGA Condemn Sentencing of Gay Couple in Malawi‏

2010-05-20T12:38:00.001-07:00

20th May 2010.

Immediate Press Release

The Executive Board members of the Pan Africa International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, condemns the conviction and sentencing of Tiwonge and Steven in Malawi.

Pan Africa ILGA join all our global human rights organizations and especially the Malawian organization the Center for the Development of People (CEDEP) in condemning the conviction and harsh sentencing of 14 years imprisonment with hard labour by a Magistrate Court in Blantyre, Malawi of Tiwonge ("Tionge") Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza for "unnatural offences" and "indecent practices between males" under Sections 153 and 156 of the Malawi Penal Code.

"This is an appalling, vindictive and brutal sentence, which tramples on Malawi's constitution, violates personal privacy and reverses the country's commitment to human rights.

"Steven and Tiwonge love each other and have harmed no one. Yet they get a sentence more severe than some rapists, armed robbers and killers.

"With so much hatred and violence in Malawi, it is sick that the court has jailed this couple for loving and caring for each other.

"The sentence echoes the era of dictatorship under President Hastings Banda, when personal prejudices determined law enforcement, and when individual rights were crushed and dissenters persecuted,"

We are calling for an immediate response from all parts of the world as we are not going to stand for these injustices, not in Africa and not anywhere else.

We call on government authorities and leaders at the commonwealth and United Nation for their response. We call on African states to condemn these violent breaches of gay people’s right.

This precedence will endanger the very fabric of society that we seek to protect, to live peaceful side by side and will jeopardize the process of saving lives.

WRITE A LETTER TO STEVEN AND TIWONGE

2010-05-18T06:38:00.001-07:00

IMMEDIATE ACTION: Write a letter to Steven and Tiwonge.

One priority is to swamp the prison with letters of support for Steven and Tiwonge.

Help boost their spirits. Show them you care. Send a letter or
postcard of support to Steven and Tiwonge:

Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza, Prisoners, Chichiri Prison,
P.O.Box 30117, Blantyre 3, Malawi

IDAHO Prayers

2010-05-18T02:40:00.000-07:00

IDAHO Prayers from Reverend Jide Macaulay and House Of Rainbow members. May 2010

Let us Pray

Most loving God in heaven, we are gathered here to address some of the biggest issues in our nation, in religion and in our world today, the violence and exclusion of sexual minorities, Children of God. We are asking for the unimaginable love of God, the wasteful generosity and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ to be our portion.

We act with faith as we engage in the casting of our burden’s into God’s hands. We pray for zero tolerance of hate from every area of society including our religious families.

We forgive the discrimination and misunderstanding by our society and religious communities, our religious leaders have preached, cajoled and reported that we are evil and an abomination to God, we pray today, WHOSE REPORT SHALL WE BELIEVE?

Report of hate or love? the bible confirms, God is love and there is no fear in love.

Report of Injustice or Justice? Prophet Micah asked, what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

Report of condemnation or reconciliation? Paul told the Romans, There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

Report of exclusion or inclusion? In Colossians, there is no longer Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and free; but Christ is all and in all.

In Nigeria, Where our Christian brothers and sisters, our leaders are prepared to throw us to the wolves, into the lion’s den and into the human lake of fire, we pray that God will take our yoke and make them light, God will take our pains and sorrows away, God will delight us with happiness and joy.

17th May each year we celebrate IDAHO to remember those injured, killed, families destroyed due to external, internal, state and religious sponsored homophobia. We believe as a Christian Community, Saints and Refugee of God and Asylum of Christ love, we come with a Christian response to arrest homophobia, to detain hatred, stop the abuse and alienation, reconcile families and love ones.

We pour out our souls and spirit in prayers of healing to all affected by hatred, for those alienated from Cape Town to Cyprus, Lagos to London, Mumbai to Melbourne, New York to Nepal that healing will begin today, that people will come to the church for healing and love, peace and reconciliation.

We pray for we know that the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, 23gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things.

We believe according to 1 Peter 2:9-10 that But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people,* in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. 10Once we were not a people, but now we are God’s people; once we had not received mercy, but now we have received mercy

Also 1 Peter 3:8-9, says all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 9Do not repay evil for evil or abuse for abuse; but, on the contrary, repay with a blessing. It is for this that you were called—that you might inherit a blessing. Amen.

Prayers for Bobby

2010-05-09T04:57:00.000-07:00

Exceptional performances abound in this poignant Lifetime original about a mother who realizes too late that unconditional love for her gay son is far more important than her faith in a homophobic, vindictive and judgmental God.

Based on a true story detailed in the 1995 book "Prayers For Bobby: A Mother's Coming to Terms With the Suicide of Her Gay Son" by late gay journalist Leroy Aarons, the film is an undeniable tour de force for Sigourney Weaver, who portrays the rigidly devout and ultimately devastated mother with a raw intensity and passion.

Part 1/9

Part 2/9

Part 3/9

Part 4/9

Part 5/9

Part 6/9

Part 7/9

Part 8/9

Part 9/9

RESPONSE TO CRITICS: Jesus affirmed a gay couple.

2010-05-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

Dearly Beloved Children of the living God,

I am not surprise at the responses from many of the contributors to my original note, I recognise the pattern of denial, to say that Jesus affirmed gay people, is too good to be true, but it is the gospel truth. For many Gay and Lesbian Christians will resonate in the words of Jesus and you shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free. Also Roman 8:1, (no condemnation) Col 3:11 (no discrimination). Please read.

Many may speak from the comfort of their protective locations or even the darkness of the closet, but for many in Africa and the rest of the Global South these are life saving messages, the Inclusive Gospel.

I am sure you will appreciate the safety of being outside compared to the times you spend in Nigeria. We started the House of Rainbow Metropolitan Community church, focusing all our strength and trust on God and we still do, however, our lives were endangered by our honesty, openness and somewhat naive of the Nigerian politics. Our premise was vandalised beyond recognition and looted of every valuable items, there was an order to assasinate, massacre the gay Christians in cold blood. It was reported that our church was "an unacceptable brand of religion" I was circulated as wanted by the authorities for questioning, it was the grace of God that I was able to leave the country with the cloths on my back.

To include, affirmed and offer an alternative eyeview of the scriptures, the Bible or the Quran is a test of our efficiency to recognise the words from our perspective which have for centuries been distorted to the detriment of same gender loving people. John 20:30-31, Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. 31But these are written so that you may come to believe* that Jesus is the Messiah,* the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.

People may choose to remain in denial, but it will be ungodly not to afford the liberation of the mind of those who finally got the message of inclusion and love of God, the ability to break from the bondages of religious oppression and discrimination.

Many people with hope for liberation suffered again and again, many people were fired from their jobs and evicted from their homes because they are homosexuals. Micah 6:8, what does the Lord require of you, but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

The biblical references of homosexuality signpost to destructive homosexual behaviours, even if we are to accept some of the analogies in the old testament. They certainly do not speak of homosexuality as many of us know today. No one judges the destructive heterosexual relationships we see everyday, they make good stories for ratings on Maury, Jerry Springer shows etc.

We are determined never to stop this heroic journey of faith to reconcile human sexuality and spirituality, moreso for LGBTI people.

The physical church as been transformed in to a cyber church for now, where no harm or fear can be real. You can find us on facebook, twitter, ning, yahoo messenger, webpage is www.houseofrainbow.org Call/sms +447507510357

It is only a matter of time before gays and lesbians become free and we continue to focus on the reward of our travailing in prayers and trust in God.

More love more power
Rev Jide Macaulay.

All God's Children on Video

2010-05-08T10:18:00.001-07:00

ALL GOD'S CHILDREN ON VIDEO

All God's Children from Garrett Lenoir on Vimeo.

STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART

Straight From The Heart from Garrett Lenoir on Vimeo.

DE COLORES

De Colores from Garrett Lenoir on Vimeo.

Documentary With BBC World Service

2010-05-04T02:01:00.001-07:00

Hello People, I am currently doing a documentary with the BBC - World Service, the producer is looking for members or followers of House Of Rainbow Online Church, who are able and willing to make a contribution to the documentary, this can be done anonymously, you don’t have to give your real names. The importance is to share your stories and how your connection with House Of Rainbow's inclusive teaching and Prayer ministry is changing your live. Please write to me at Church@houseofrainbow.org or call/text +447507510357

Until My Last Breath

2010-05-03T02:59:00.000-07:00

Until My Last Breath

I am sure you appreciate the safety of being in Europe compared to the times you spend in Nigeria. In 2006 I gave up everything in England to relocate to Nigeria to start the House of Rainbow Metropolitan Community church, I focus all my strength and trust on God and I still do, however, my life was endangered by my openness and somewhat naive of the Nigerian politics. My home was vandalised beyond recognition and looted of every valuable items and I was later informed through our private investigator that there was an order to assasinate me, it was reported that our church was "an unacceptable brand of religion" I was circulated as wanted by the authorities for questioning, it was the grace of God that I was able to leave the country with the cloths on my back.

I was angry, but you cant argue with God, many people with hope for liberation suffered again and again, many people were fired from their jobs and evicted from their homes because they were homosexual and attached to our church, our pictures were speared over the Nigeria media with a clear homophobic message and incitement to kill. Recalling the headlines makes me angry and at the same time more determined never to stop this heroic journey of faith.

I am in London not because I chose but because God needed to preserve my life and that is why I continue to be more effective using the internet as an additional tool. I am out of Nigeria to re strategise and look at new ways we can do our work effectively, the down side is that many more people will not have access to the internet and many more will like to speak to somebody, we are doing our best to develop and train people locally in Nigeria and other parts of Africa. Personally I am frustrated but I am relearning to wait on God in faith and conscience.

The physical church as been transformed in to a cyber church for now, where no harm or fear can be real. The two links I sent you is part of the work to reach people, at the moment we have nearly 300 people on line with over 400 hits on a single video message, there are people from over 35 countries and thus far I have upload 20 video messages.

The hypocrisy of our people and government is so bad to the point that the minister of justice stood at the UN review in Geneva and lied that there are no homosexuals in Nigeria on the 9th February 2009. He must be in dark ages, never read the papers nor listen to the news. I am active and in contact with Nigeria and our people everyday, by phone and internet.

Nigeria newspapers still run stories with my name and our church regularly. I do not intend to stop until my last breath. I am stil involved with activism in Nigeria and we are detemined that we would continue the work, we need to measure the safety of all people. What can be useful is if we all come together trust and honor God in all we do. Help our fellow brothers and sisters.

We cannot blame those that are downlow, even those in government, you know they will be skinned alive if they admit to being gay, these is part of the cross they bear, but at least they can orchestrate some changes using other mechanism. I must assure you we are working with much more people who are now allies to the LGBT community than we did five years ago.

Please keep in touch

Jesus affirmed a gay couple.

2010-05-01T16:24:00.000-07:00

Jesus affirmed a gay couple.

http://wouldjesusdiscriminate.org/biblical_evidence/gay_couple.html

Discussion: Matthew 19:10-12
From our days in Sunday school, many of us are familiar with the Gospel story where Jesus healed the servant of a Roman centurion. This story is recorded in Matthew 8:5-13 and Luke 7:1-10. In Matthew, we are told that the centurion came to Jesus to plead for the healing of his servant. Jesus said he was willing to come to the centurion’s house, but the centurion said there was no need for Jesus to do so — he believed that if Jesus simply spoke the word, his servant would be healed. Marveling at the man’s faith, Jesus pronounced the servant healed. Luke tells a similar story.

Just another miracle story, right? Not on your life!

Note 18. K.J. Dover, Greek Homosexuality (Harvard University Press, Cambridge, 1978), page 16; Bernard Sergent, Homosexuality in Greek Myth (Beacon Press, Boston, 1986), page 10.
In the original language, the importance of this story for gay, lesbian, and bisexual Christians is much clearer. The Greek word used in Matthew’s account to refer to the servant of the centurion is pais. In the language of the time, pais had three possible meanings depending upon the context in which it was used. It could mean “son or boy;” it could mean “servant,” or it could mean a particular type of servant — one who was “his master’s male lover.” (See note 18.) Often these lovers were younger than their masters, even teenagers.

Note 19. Mercer Dictionary of the Bible (Mercer University Press, Macon, 1994), page 554.
To our modern minds, the idea of buying a teen lover seems repugnant. But we have to place this in the context of ancient cultural norms. In ancient times, commercial transactions were the predominant means of forming relationships. Under the law, the wife was viewed as the property of the husband, with a status just above that of slave. Moreover, in Jesus’ day, a boy or girl was considered of marriageable age upon reaching his or her early teens. It was not uncommon for boys and girls to marry at age 14 or 15. (See note 19.) Nor was it uncommon for an older man to marry a young girl. Fortunately civilization has advanced, but these were the norms in the culture of Jesus’ day.

In that culture, if you were a gay man who wanted a male “spouse,” you achieved this, like your heterosexual counterparts, through a commercial transaction — purchasing someone to serve that purpose. A servant purchased to serve this purpose was often called a pais.

The word boy in English offers a rough comparison. Like pais, the word boy can be used to refer to a male child. But in the slave South in the nineteenth century, boy was also often used to refer to male slaves. The term boy can also be used as a term of endearment. For example, Jeff’s father often refers to his mother as “his girl.” He doesn’t mean that she is a child, but rather that she is his “special one.” The term boy can be used in the same way, as in “my boy” or “my beau.” In ancient Greek, pais had a similar range of meanings.

Thus, when this term was used, the listener had to consider the context of the statement to determine which meaning was intended. Some modern Christians may be tempted to simply declare by fiat that the Gospels could not possibly have used the term pais in the sense of male lover, end of discussion. But that would be yielding to prejudice. We must let the word of God speak for itself, even if it leads us to an uncomfortable destination.

Is it possible the pais referred to in Matthew 8 and Luke 7 was the Roman centurion’s male lover? Let’s look at the biblical evidence.

Note 20. For an excellent and thorough discussion of the terms pais and entimos doulos in these two gospel accounts, see Donald Mader’s article The Entimos Pais of Matthew 8:5-13 and Luke 7:1-10, (Source: Homosexuality and Religion and Philosophy, Harland Publishing, Inc., New York, 1998).
The Bible provides three key pieces of textual and circumstantial evidence. First, in the Luke passage, several additional Greek words are used to describe the one who is sick. Luke says this pais was the centurion’s entimos doulos. The word doulos is a generic term for slave, and was never used in ancient Greek to describe a son/boy. Thus, Luke’s account rules out the possibility the sick person was the centurion’s son; his use of doulos makes clear this was a slave. However, Luke also takes care to indicate this was no ordinary slave. The word entimos means “honored.” This was an “honored slave” (entimos doulos) who was his master’s pais. Taken together, the three Greek words preclude the possibility the sick person was either the centurion’s son or an ordinary slave, leaving only one viable option — he was his master’s male lover. (See note 20.)

A second piece of evidence is found in verse 9 of Matthew’s account. In the course of expressing his faith in Jesus’ power to heal by simply speaking, the centurion says, “When I tell my slave to do something, he does it.” By extension, the centurion concludes that Jesus is also able to issue a remote verbal command that must be carried out. When speaking here of his slaves, the centurion uses the word doulos. But when speaking of the one he is asking Jesus to heal, he uses only pais. In other words, when he is quoted in Matthew, the centurion uses pais only when referring to the sick person. He uses a different word, doulos, when speaking of his other slaves, as if to draw a distinction. (In Luke, it is others, not the centurion, who call the sick one an entimos doulos.) Again, the clear implication is that the sick man was no ordinary slave. And when pais was used to describe a servant who was not an ordinary slave, it meant only one thing — a slave who was the master’s male lover.

The third piece of evidence is circumstantial. In the Gospels, we have many examples of people seeking healing for themselves or for family members. But this story is the only example of someone seeking healing for a slave. The actions described are made even more remarkable by the fact that this was a proud Roman centurion (the conqueror/oppressor) who was humbling himself and pleading with a Jewish rabbi (the conquered/oppressed) to heal his slave. The extraordinary lengths to which this man went to seek healing for his slave is much more understandable, from a psychological perspective, if the slave was his beloved companion.

Thus, all the textual and circumstantial evidence in the Gospels points in one direction. For objective observers, the conclusion is inescapable: In this story Jesus healed a man’s male lover. When understood this way, the story takes on a whole new dimension.

Imagine how it may have happened. While stationed in Palestine, the centurion’s pais becomes ill — experiencing some type of life-threatening paralysis. The centurion will stop at nothing to save him. Perhaps a friend tells him of rumors of Jesus’ healing powers. Perhaps this friend also tells him Jesus is unusually open to foreigners, teaching his followers that they should love their enemies, even Roman soldiers. So the centurion decides to take a chance. Jesus was his only hope.

As he made his way to Jesus, he probably worried about the possibility that Jesus, like other Jewish rabbis, would take a dim view of his homosexual relationship. Perhaps he even considered lying. He could simply use the word duolos. That would have been accurate, as far as it went. But the centurion probably figured if Jesus was powerful enough to heal his lover, he was also powerful enough to see through any half-truths.

So the centurion approaches Jesus and bows before him. “Rabbi, my . . . ,” the word gets caught in his throat. This is it — the moment of truth. Either Jesus will turn away in disgust, or something wonderful will happen. So, the centurion clears his throat and speaks again. “Rabbi, my pais — yes, my pais lies at home sick unto death.” Then he pauses and waits for a second that must have seemed like an eternity. The crowd of good, God-fearing people surrounding Jesus probably became tense. This was like a gay man asking a televangelist to heal his lover. What would Jesus do?

Without hesitation, Jesus says, “Then I will come and heal him.”

It’s that simple! Jesus didn’t say, “Are you kidding? I’m not going to heal your pais so you can go on living in sin!” Nor did he say, “Well, it shouldn’t surprise you that your pais is sick; this is God’s judgment on your relationship.”

Instead, Jesus’ words are simple, clear, and liberating for all who have worried about what God thinks of gay relationships. “I will come and heal him.”

At this point, the centurion says there is no need for Jesus to travel to his home. He has faith that Jesus’ word is sufficient. Jesus then turns to the good people standing around him — those who were already dumbfounded that he was willing to heal this man’s male lover. To them, Jesus says in verse 10 of Matthew’s account, “I have not found faith this great anywhere in Israel.” In other words, Jesus holds up this gay centurion as an example of the type of faith others should aspire to.

Jesus didn’t just tolerate this gay centurion. He said he was an example of faith — someone we all should strive to be like.

Then, just so the good, God-fearing people wouldn’t miss his point, Jesus speaks again in verse 11: “I tell you, many will come from the east and the west [i.e., beyond the borders of Israel] to find a seat in the kingdom of heaven, while the heirs [i.e., those considered likely to inherit heaven] will be thrown into outer darkness.” By this statement Jesus affirmed that many others like this gay centurion — those who come from beyond the assumed boundaries of God’s grace — are going to be admitted to the kingdom of heaven. And he also warned that many who think themselves the most likely to be admitted will be left out.

In this story, Jesus restores a gay relationship by a miracle of healing and then holds up a gay man as an example of faith for all to follow. So consider carefully: Who is Lord — Jesus or cultural prejudice?

Rev Jide Macaulay and Timothy Obialo on Atlanta Gay Radio

2010-05-01T01:32:00.000-07:00

Listen the this Interview with Rev Jide Macaulay and Timothy Obialo on Atlanta Gay Radio with host Betty Couvertier, on "AP2010's Podcast": http://podOmatic.com/r/tKLP

Give Jesus a TRY, You are invited to House Of Rainbow LONDON 6th May 2010

2010-04-30T10:30:00.001-07:00

Give Jesus a TRY, All are Welcome in this place. You are invited to House Of Rainbow Fellowship LONDON, Monthly Prayer and Praise on the 6th May 2010, 6.30pm Call/Text +447507510357 and visit www.houseofrainbow.org

Nigerian outcast to appear on "Alternative Perspectives"

2010-04-27T10:43:00.001-07:00

Nigerian outcast to appear on "Alternative Perspectives"
http://thegavoice.com/index.php/component/content/article/29-tiga/251-nigerian-outcast-on-alternative-perspectives

BY DYANA BAGBY
MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2010 10:36 PM

Rev. Rowland Jide Macaulay will be on LGBT radio show tonight.
Rev. Rowland Jide Macaulay will be the guest via telephone on tonight’s LGBT radio show, “Alternative Perspectives,” on WRFG, 89.3 FM. The show airs from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. and can also be streamed live at www.wrfg.org.
Macaulay, who lives in London, was chased out of Lagos, Nigeria, for being openly gay. He will be sharing his story with “Alternative Perspectives” host and long time queer activist, Betty Couvertier.

Signs of Faith, Hope and Love

2010-04-26T01:52:00.001-07:00

Rev Jide Visiting Preacher at MCC East London 25th April

2010-04-23T05:53:00.001-07:00

Join Rev Jide Macaulay and Rev Margarita De Sousa at the Metropolitan Community Church East London, 5.30pm on the 25th April 2010 for an inclusive Praise and Worship.

Address 159 Mile End Road London E1 4AQ.

Homosexuality and the Black Church

2010-04-20T14:24:00.001-07:00

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Prayers For Voters 2010 General Election in UK

2010-04-20T03:25:00.001-07:00

Prayers for voters ahead of 2010 General Election in United Kingdom

Loving God

Thank you for caring about how our country is run, and that we have the right to vote for our politicians and government.

But in the run-up to this general election there are so many policies to understand, and so many different points of view to consider -

sometimes I wonder whether there's any point in voting, whether anyone cares what I think.

As I choose who I am going to vote for,

help me not to be cynical about politics and politicians,

help me to remember that my vote can make a difference,

and help me vote for those people who will protect the poor and vulnerable, and do all they can to make our nation a place of fairness and peace.

Because you call us to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with you, our God.

Amen.

Heavenly Father

source of all truth and wisdom, who knows and loves the whole creation,

watch over our nation at election time:

that truth may prevail over distortion,

wisdom triumph over recklessness

and the concerns of every person be heard.

Lord Jesus,

who chose the way of the cross in the Garden of Gethsemane,

help us to turn our backs on self interest

and to support policies that sustain the poor, the vulnerable and the frightened people of this world.

Holy Spirit,

who brought understanding among myriad peoples and languages at Pentecost,

give to all your people a passion for peace

and inspire us to work for unity and co-operation throughout the world and in our political life together.

Amen.

Lord, we give thanks for the privileges and responsibilities of

living in a democratic society.

Give us wisdom to play our part at election time,

that, through the exercise of each vote,

your Kingdom may come closer.

Protect us from the sins of despair and cynicism,

guard us against the idols of false utopias

and strengthen us to make politics a noble calling

that serves the common good of all.

We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ Our Lord.

Amen.

http://cofe.anglican.org/generalelection
The Church of England has published prayers and compiled useful information to help voters as they consider their options in the forthcoming General Election.

Prayer Over the Volcanic Ash

2010-04-19T02:35:00.000-07:00

Prayer Over the Volcanic Ash

Please join us to pray over the volcanic ash, it is now four days since the news of the volcanic ash eruption.

Flights over the United Kingdom and Nordic countries have been delayed and in many cases suspended after a volcanic eruption have sent tons of particulate matter into the air. Let us pray for the mercy of God and guide the government on the way forward to bring people to their destinations safely.

The gigantic ash cloud hinders visibility to pilots, and in addition the matter can be sucked into plane engines, causing them to stall. The plume has risen between 20,000 feet and 36,000 feet.

Let us pray for the thousands of air travelers all over the world who have been stranded as flights have been cancelled.

Loving God we are thankful for your intervention in our world and we ask you to please help us to move this Ash Cloud further away from the air path in order that flights may resume, that businesses may begin recovery, that people may return home and to work.

Thank you Lord for answered prayers, amen.

Unless I see I will not believe By Rev Rowland Jide Macaulay

2010-04-12T09:06:00.000-07:00

Unless I see I will not believe By Rev Rowland Jide Macaulay

We Have A Great High Priest

2010-04-10T00:56:00.001-07:00

We have a Great High Priest

Hebrew 4:14-16 “Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. 15For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. 16Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

This is an announcement of hope, anticipation, optimism, and expectation for many people who may have lost hope or dissipated on the notion that Jesus died for all our weaknesses. A failure to acknowledge that from the beginning of creation God’s love for humankind never shifted.

Whatever we may be going through in our daily lives and uphill struggles, Jesus has been through it or it is safe to say that Jesus is going through the difficult times with us, shares our pains and burdens, our joys and triumphs. Our confession, that Jesus is Lord of all requires renewal with clarity of our faith in the divine intervention of the almighty God.

Let me take more time to analyse this passage for a better understanding;
a) Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God; There is no misunderstanding on the superiority of Jesus, there is no confusion about his Excellency, the son of God, he has passed through heaven and earth, so there is nothing we are going to pass through that he has not experienced.
b) Let us hold fast to our confession; Our confession in God and Jesus is the confession of our faith and honour of the creator. “For without faith it is impossible to please God for whoever comes to God must believe that God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek God”. Hebrew 11:6
c) For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses; Jesus sympathises with all of humanity, where there are pains and calamities, where there are aches and perils, Jesus is there. Jesus is the only high priest who is capable of transcending our turmoil to serenity, our mourning to dancing and sorrow to joy.
d) But we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin; Christ stood the test for our victory, Jesus paid the price for our liberation, redemption, and freedom, Jesus is the child of God without blemish nor sin, there are no tests under the sun and or on earth that Jesus had not passed for our sake, with this in mind we must find a place in our heart for celebration of the sanctity of our souls.
e) Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness; We should therefore come with boldness and not fear, with rejoicing and not sadness, courage and not cowardice, when we come with boldness and faith we are guaranteed a higher measure of success, testimony and victory.
f) So that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need; When we fulfil all of the proscribed notions in these verses, we are rewarded with mercy and grace, which meets our help in time of need, including grace to help ourselves and each other.

I am encouraged by the verses shared in this reflection and it is my hope and prayer that an extension of this love and grace of God will be given to all regardless of race, age, gender, sexual orientation, abilities, disabilities, wealth and so on.

More love more power
Rowland Jide Macaulay

Prayer And Praise in London 6th May, 6.30pm

2010-03-29T04:58:00.000-07:00

YOU ARE ALL INVITED TO HOUSE OF RAINBOW FELLOWSHIP MONTHLY PRAYER AND PRAISE IN LONDON, THURSDAY 6TH MAY, 6.30PM FOR DETAILS CALL 07507 510 357. www.houseofrainbow.org Please Pass on to network, God bless you.

www.houseofrainbow.org

2010-03-20T14:16:00.000-07:00

Setting Up Our Websites.

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I want you to be the first to know that we are in the process of setting up our direct websites, this work is under construction. The direct links are www.houseofrainbow.org which will serve all the online ministry work of HOR and also www.rjmm.co.uk. which will be the direct webpage for Revd Rowland Jide Macaulay Ministries.
If you have any suggestions for the webpage development please do not hesitate to get in touch with me directly. Rev Jide

House Of Rainbow MCC Nigeria To Mark Three Years of Inclusive Mission.

2009-08-28T04:27:00.000-07:00

House Of Rainbow MCC Nigeria To Mark Three Years of Inclusive Mission.

August/September 2009

An Exclusive Interview with Openly Gay Nigerian Reverend Rowland Jide Macaulay.

Introduction
House of Rainbow Metropolitan Community Church Lagos Nigeria is a church that welcomes Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals and Transgender people, an inclusive ministry that welcomes all people. This church opened its door to all persons on the 2nd September 2006 and has reached thousands of queer people both in Nigeria, in other African nations and also giving hope to people in other developing nations across the globe. This church is no stranger to controversy and never the less they are growing from strength to strength and with the age of Internet and new media Reverend Macaulay shows no sign of slowing down.

Rev Rowland Jide Macaulay the founding pastor speaks of his convictions as the servant of God in due season bringing hope to the queer people in Nigeria and elsewhere.

What do you plan to do this year in Nigeria?
We are continually obedient to the voice of God and the Holy Spirit. We plan to reach people where they are, as we know that the nation and many of the people seem to be ignorant of the existence of queer people.

This year we are asking people to pray with us, and if you are online and have access to the internet you can join Rev Jide in a circle of prayers from the 1st to 6th September 2009, many communities all over the world will be holding prayer service for the anniversary of House Of Rainbow that is being rolled out to ask God for favour and protection for queer people in Nigeria and other places where there is hostility towards them.

How about the physical presence of the people?
LGBT people in Nigeria and especially our members will be celebrating in the country, however this year we have decided to be completely tight lipped about any information that the people or the media can use against us to harm us. We learned from last year. But we believe that as we develop away from the media intrusion we are preparing a massive launch of our mission in the future. This is a time we identify as “exilic times”, we are travailing in the presence of God with our petitions and supplications, and when we get to the post exilic times we would celebrate.

What are we to expect for the 2009 celebration?
As we mark House Of Rainbow MCC, 3rd Anniversary in 2009, unlike last year, when we rolled out the red carpet and had a huge celebration under the scrutiny of the Nigeria media, this year House Of Rainbow has decided on a much more discreet celebration across the nation and the rest of the world. Our events will begin on the 1st to 6th September 2009 and we are tight lipped about the details of the event.

What are your thoughts on the intrusive events last year?
As the founding Pastor of the movement in Nigeria, we are delighted and continue to thank God almighty for the extra ordinary events last year, which no doubt placed our church in the centre of the struggle for equality for gays and lesbians and other marginalised groups of people in Nigeria and indeed any other place where legal hostilities are conducted against these communities.

It is sad that in the 21st century we are unable to celebrate openly a worship and praise to God for the marvellous creations of gays and lesbians, our families, relatives and allies.

People have said that you are law breakers.
We are law abiding and contributors to the world economy, have you not heard of the “Pink Currency” we are creative in our thinking and doing, we are a blessing according to events in the recorded ancient biblical writings. Our historical presence links us with Kings, Queens and their Kingdoms, we enjoy the favour of God in the service of royalty. However today we have to fight tooth and nail to even get a place to express our humanity let alone freely worship God.

What gives you so much strength and how do you cope with the criticism?
We as a community and personally as the leader of this great community of people, believe that God is in control and it is not over until God have spoken, we believe just like the community of the Jewish people under the leadership of Nehemiah, who God called to rebuild Jerusalem in the midst of hostility, he received exemplary criticism for his vision of the new Jerusalem. The Prophet becomes a model of servant leadership for the queer Christian community and for the queer community. Nehemiah rebuilt a community wounded from exile. That is what I believe my call is for the new age queer Christian community in Nigeria and the rest of the world, to be healed from their wounds. Let me explain this with a simple analogy, House Of Rainbow MCC Lagos Nigeria embodies a vision of hope, healing and reconciliation for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and transgender community, what we do as a ministry is work in the spirit realm collecting discarded vessels from the rubbish bins of other religious communities and bringing them home, to a safe place where they can be ministered to and nourished to good health, if you can imagine mending a broken vessel, it will also appear broken on the outside, however the ministry of House Of Rainbow is to rebuild the vessels so that they are reusable, though they appear broken we believe that the inclusive love of Jesus and the grace of God will sustain us.

Many Churches will not accept homosexual behaviour, why are you different?
Many queer Christians have been excluded from their churches or have been forced into exile from their denominations because of their sexual orientation and primarily due to “Bad Theology”. House of Rainbow is a welcoming church to the unchurched and exiled queer Christians. As a modern day Nehemiah, I believe that my ministry is to embark on the inclusive work of the mission for the reconciliation of Sexuality, Spirituality and faith.

With this in mind we celebrate our third year anniversary, giving glory to God and we can count our blessings and achievements in the past 12 months.

Why did you close the church in Nigeria?
Last year we closed the physical presence of our church and developed a small group of people across the nations, our friends all over the world in different religious communities continue to hold us in prayers and communion. We did because the violence was extreme and our properties were attacked, vandalised, looted and a few of our security guards were wounded.

What is the latest development for the church?
Whilst my ministry takes me to many places all over the world, my core focus was centred on the development of the people in Nigeria and we have grown in numbers in our local meetings, local leaderships and also on our virtual mission in order to reach more people, we posted nearly 50 videos of inclusive messages, and activities, with nearly 30,000 hits, to encourage LGBT people in Nigeria and other developing nations. We have an online forum subscribed by nearly 500 members. So we ask people to pray with us, sign on to the internet and join our inclusive mission online.

Why do you think House Of Rainbow was being attacked?
In the story of Nehemiah and the Jewish people, and their desperation in Jerusalem, it was clear that they are in a very delicate situation as their city has no fortified walls to protect them and without walls around the city it was vulnerable to all types of marauders. It was constantly being attacked, impoverished and diminished. Like LGBT people in Nigeria and other hostile nations, people lived in fear daily and the city of Jerusalem was in disrepair and the people were disheartened, discouraged and afraid. The constant attacks of the Jews can be likened to the irrational attacks on House Of Rainbow people and LGBT people in general, these attacks poisoned and tore us from the inside.

Unfortunately the condition of Jerusalem and its people serves as an all too accurate analogy of what has happened spiritually to the lesbian and gay community. Too often we have had our place taken from us and we have been left vulnerable to the repeated attacks of radical fundamentalists.

How do you see the relevance of your call for the queer community?
We strongly claim God’s grace includes gays and lesbians, however the assaults from religious communities, Politicians and Civil society have a toxic effect on our souls. It is these terrible conditions of injustice that informs my call to ministry in the queer community, I sense the call of God to do something about it and in the third year of the mission I am clear that the call of God is profound and beyond a shadow of doubt a liberating mission to save lives and win souls. Like Nehemiah, I am not a Politician or Soldier, but I believe in the spiritual leadership of the queer people amongst us.

Who are those who inspire and encourage you?
Despite what may have been published in the media, My father, Professor Augustus Kunle Macaulay is not just my father, he is my friend, confidant, a mentor and more, his inspiration and love cannot be matched. Dorothy AkenOva of INCRESE is a champion and leader amongst leader, a sister and a friend. There are many people of God that inspire me, we have been blessed with prayers and support from the founder of MCC Rev Elder Troy D. Perry and the leaderships, we also have been blessed by the openly gay Bishop of New Hampshire, Archbishop Gene Robinson in the USA, Rev Pressley Sutherland, a great friend and brother the Senior Pastor of GoodHope MCC Cape Town South Africa. Friends and members of House Of Rainbow, including people we have reached out to inspire me, William Rashidi, of Queer Alliance, Joseph Akoro, of The Independent Project for Equal Rights, Stephen Chukwumah, of Youth Together Network just to mention a few, there many more people that gives me strength and encouragement.

Web links
YahooID: revjide@yahoo.com
http://revrowlandjidemacaulay.blogspot.com/
http://spiritualityandsexuality.ning.com/
http://www.houseofrainbowmcc.blogspot.com/
http://www.youtube.com/HouseOfRainbow
http://www.mccchurch.org/

googlea9bd6c92cb757131.html

2009-06-01T11:13:00.000-07:00

googlea9bd6c92cb757131.html

Radically Inclusive Mission (RIM) with Rev Jide Macaulay

2009-05-23T12:35:00.000-07:00

Radically Inclusive Mission (RIM) with Rev Jide Macaulay.

Invite and Join our online forum here, with nearly 350 members, let you curiosity and quest for knowledge lead you to a place where you can reconcile spirituality and sexuality. http://spiritualityandsexuality.ning.com/

Rev Jide Macaulay shares inclusive messages and gospel of Jesus, view and comment, there are nearly 12,000 hits http://www.youtube.com/houseofrainbow ,

pls pass on.

A day In Hand Message - IDAHO 2009

2009-05-19T03:52:00.000-07:00

IDAHO UK 17th May 2009
A Day In Hand Message by

Rev Rowland Jide Macaulay

Two women, One to another pledge their love, I believe holding hands. “Do not press me to leave you or to turn back from following you! Where you go, I will go; where you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God my God.17Where you die, I will die, there will I be buried. May the Lord do thus and so to me, and more as well, if even death parts me from you!” Ruth 1:16-17.

I am here to add my voice as a Christian to the growing voice that holding hands by persons of the same sex sharing friendship and deep affection is what is required of us, there is a need to share a deep private and public affection without fear, discrimination and prejudice.

These two women, Ruth and Naomi in the bible story did what many people considered at the time as the greatest crime.

I encourage us to hold hands with our lover, with our friends. “A day in hand, is a wonderful idea drawing attention to the fact that many cultures and peoples hold hands for different reasons and they are all good reasons, the close touch and embrace is a sign of comfort, peace and love. In my experience doing this is not just a sexual significance but an empowering and liberating move, I believe people should hold hands more”.

As citizens of the world we are here to add our voices against homophobia and transphobia and to remind our government to buckle up, religious bodies, media, people and society that they may run us out of their churches, synagogues, temples, mosques, homes, jobs and neighbourhood, but they cannot run us out of this world nor reduce the love of God that includes us.

Colossians 3:11, “there is no longer Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and free; but Christ is all and in all!” This is a progressive and inclusive voice of scripture rejecting discrimination of any kind.

I want to encourage you all to be the voice of the voiceless the face of the faceless, near and in far away land.

State Sponsored Homophobia
80 countries around the world consider homosexuality illegal. Five still punish with execution of our queer brothers and sisters.

Yogyakarta Principles on the Application of International Human Rights Law in relation to Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Principle 21, The Right to Freedom of Thought, Conscience and Religion Says; Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. These rights may not be invoked by the State to justify laws, policies or practices which deny equal protection of the law, or discriminate, on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.

We will continue to fight for equality and for freedom of thought, expression, and religion; by presenting this statement we seek to confront human rights challenges with strategic responses that do not compromise our integrity.
Religious Homophobia
John 9:39-40 Jesus said, ‘I came into this world for judgement so that those who do not see may see, and those who do see may become blind.’ 40Some of the Pharisees near Jesus heard this and said to Jesus, ‘Surely we are not blind, are we?
Religious Homophobia is on the rampage, religious people who are suppose to be God fearing and law abiding have turn their hands to extreme “Hate” Campaign against God’s LGBT children. What then happened to the message of Christ that said “Love your neighbour as yourself?”

House Of Rainbow
We are committed to building a national movement of people who share the principles of equality and freedom for all. We are committed to raise a people of praise and spiritual activists.We value learning, mutual respect, collaboration, and a diversity of viewpoints. We are a Justice Ministry and will continue to highlight the injustices against lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender people regardless of faith background.

We believe we are made and created in the image of God, we believe in the inclusive gospel and expressive love of God for all people.

God bless you all

NGOs seek recognition for homosexuals, lesbians and gays in NIGERIA

2009-05-17T12:41:00.000-07:00

UPDATE; NGOs seek recognition for homosexuals, lesbians and gays in NIGERIA http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/Home/5416573-146/story.csp

Two non-governmental organisations in Lagos urged the three tiers of government to stop discriminating against homosexuals, lesbians and gay people.Officials of The Independent Project for Equal Rights (TIPER) and The International Centre for Sexual Reproductive Rights (INCRESE) made the appeal at a news briefing.They explained that the briefing was part of their preparation for Sunday's celebration of the annual International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO).They regretted that discrimination on the basis of age, gender, sexual orientation and gender identity had become a major concern for human rights organisations in Nigeria.

Mrs Dorothy Aken Ova, Executive Director of INCRESE urged the protection of the fundamental rights of homosexuals and lesbians.She also urged the enlightenment of Nigerians to enable them to realise that gays had a right to life.``Research findings have shown that four per cent of the world population is gay and should be recognised by government through adequate representation, good education and acceess to the basic necessities of life.`

`These people, though in the minority, did not create themselves. They should, therefore, enjoy the right to live their lives.``The public must learn to respect them for who they are because if we begin to feel bad for one another, we will be calling for the destruction of some people, thus inviting genocide,'' she said.Ova noted that homosexuals, lesbians and the gay formed part of the electorate that voted for the various governments, charging them to take care of them.

She urged the Federal Government to domesticate the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW)Mr Joseph Akoro, an Executive Director of TIPER, also urged the Federal Government to consider its commitment to the protection of all Nigerians from all forms of discrimination.He said the NGOs were collaborating to create awareness about the existence of gays in the country.Mr Victor Ogbodo, a member of the NGO, said the society would benefit more from accepting them.

``If they are accepted by the public for what they are, there will be less marital problems because members of the opposite sex will have known before getting married to them.``But if the society fails to accept them now and the issue begins to rear its head after marriage, we may only just be postponing the evil day,'' he said.Ogbodo charged the government to protect the rights of all its citizens since the fundamental human rights of all Nigerians were enshrined in Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution.

He said that the groups were not considering sponsoring any bill at the National Assembly on the issue for now, ``but we will begin to kick against any further restriction on our rights.``In future, should the need arise for us to sponsor a bill on their behalf, we will surely do so,'' he added.

NIGERIA: IDAHO Press Statement by House Of Rainbow Metropolitan Community Church‏

2009-05-17T00:23:00.000-07:00

16th May 2009

Press Statement

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press

NIGERIA

International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia 2009.
A Statement by House Of Rainbow Metropolitan Community Church

On behalf of Rev Rowland Jide Macaulay, the founder and Pastor of House Of Rainbow Metropolitan Community Church Nigeria, the leaders, friends and entire members.

We are here today as citizens of Nigeria to add our voice against homophobia and transphobia and to remind our government, religious bodies, media, people and society that they may run us out of their churches, mosques, homes, jobs and neighbourhood, but they cannot run us out of this nation nor reduce the love of God that includes us.

Colossians 3:11, there is no longer Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and free; but Christ is all and in all!

This is a progressive and inclusive voice of scripture rejecting discrimination of any kind.

State Sponsored Homophobia
80 countries around the world consider homosexuality illegal, amongst these five of them punish homosexual acts with death which includes Nigeria.

Romans 13:1-3 Let every person be subject to the governing authorities; (We LGBT citizens have been a subject to the rules of the land) verse three says 3For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. (We ask that our government not rule over us in terror for who we are and who we love but judge us on who we hate)

It was not until 1990 that the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from their list of mental illnesses and, to date Nigerian government still attempt to use the old penal code from British colonialism to punish us, also in 2006 introduced the Same Sex Prohibition bill and 2008 followed up with the Same Gender Prohibition bill, these attempts to punish same sex relationship and union are state sponsored threats against our humanity and we demand an end to this.

Our government also denied we exist on the 9th February 2009 at the United Nations in Geneva and in March 2009 we have to debate that we exist at the parliament.

Yogyakarta Principles on the Application of International Human Rights Law in relation to Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Principle 21, The Right to Freedom of Thought, Conscience and Religion Says; Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. These rights may not be invoked by the State to justify laws, policies or practices which deny equal protection of the law, or discriminate, on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.

At House Of Rainbow we believe that building respect for human rights and the rule of law will help ensure the dignity to which every individual is entitled and will halt tyranny, extremism, intolerance, and violence.

We are asking the government to protect people at risk, especially LGBT people, who are increasingly victims of crimes or other mass human rights violations, victims of discrimination, whose rights are eroded in the name of national security and human rights advocates who are targeted for defending the rights of others.

We will continue to fight for equality and for freedom of thought, expression, and religion; by presenting this statement we seek to confront human rights challenges with strategic responses that do not compromise our integrity.
Religious Homophobia
John 9:39-40 Jesus said, ‘I came into this world for judgement so that those who do not see may see, and those who do see may become blind.’ 40Some of the Pharisees near Jesus heard this and said to Jesus, ‘Surely we are not blind, are we?

There is no doubt that many religious communities and leaders chose to alienate us from their mosques and churches, we believe that Jesus spoke of these leaders when he spoke about spiritual blindness.

Religious Homophobia is on the rampage, religious people who are suppose to be God fearing and law abiding have turn their hands to extreme “Hate” Campaign against God’s LGBT children. What then happened to the message of Christ that said “Love your neighbour as yourself?”

We no longer accept discrimination on the grounds that we are an “unacceptable brand of religion in Nigeria”. We seek to exercise our freedom to praise and worship God without fear and discrimination.

Micah 6:8, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

Homophobia in the Media.
Especially since May 2008, the Nigerian media with its circulation has herald the headship of homophobic stories, headlines range from “Homosexuals Must die” “Evil Church” to “We won’t succumb to Homosexuality”, these medium continue to enhance and incite hatred towards LGBT people, and criminality against our community has increased.
We expect that the media will assist to spread human rights awareness, inform people about human rights, empower marginalized communities to stand up, speak out and protect themselves. The media in any form is one of the most powerful methods to share, educate and inform the people. We are calling on the Nigerian media to help to end hate against LGBT people in this country.

Journalist should strive for Human Right goals and make everyone in the world fully aware of their rights. Creating rights awareness should be the first and most necessary step to ending rights abuses. Shamefully today the Nigerian media is the contrary and have endangered LGBT people’s lives in this nation.

Because of the media, today people "Live In Fear Everyday" it is our aim to put an end to this, LGBT people abroad are not only afraid to return to Nigeria, they do not trust the system and equally those at home are being vilified daily by the media and the society.

House Of Rainbow
We are committed to building a national movement of people who share these principles of equality and freedom for all. We are committed to raise a people of praise, build a people of power and spiritual activists.Within our organization we value learning, mutual respect, collaboration, and a diversity of viewpoints. We are a Justice Ministry and will continue to highlight the injustices against lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender people in Nigeria regardless of faith background.

We believe we are made and created in the image of God, we believe in the inclusive gospel and expressive love of God for all people.

The United Nations declaration on sexual orientation and gender identity condemns violence, harassment, discrimination, exclusion, stigmatization, and prejudice based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It also condemns killings and executions, torture, arbitrary arrest, and deprivation of economic, social, and cultural rights on those grounds.

We are asking our government to formally endorse the United Nation’s declaration calling for the decriminalization of homosexuality.

God bless you all

Rev Rowland Jide Macaulay - LLB, MTh, FACTS.
On Behalf of the Leaders, Friends, and Members of
House Of Rainbow Metropolitan Community Church Nigeria

Pocket Devotional for LGBT Christians

2009-05-12T13:22:00.000-07:00

" This devotional contains a companionable witness for daily 'mountain moving.' Reverend Rowland Jide Macaulay is a dear friend and colleague with a burning love for God's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender people. He often inspires me. He does not shy away from sharing his truth with us, as this is the only way to be completely free, according to Jesus" Reverend Pressley Sutherland.

Click here;

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Devotional-Lesbian-Bisexual-Transgender-Christians/dp/0954999703/ref=cm_cmu_pg_product_empty

I am very moved by your devotional. I am especially moved by the directness of the appeal to readership that may identify with as a native son of Africa. I hope the book will contribute significantly to the outreach planned in Nigeria,... Rev Pat Bumgardener New York USA.

Letter of Invitation to Press Conference 16th May 2009

2009-05-11T10:38:00.000-07:00

Letter of Invitation to Press Conference 16th May 2009

Dear Sir/Ma,
The Independent Project for Equal Rights (TIP) in collaboration with the International Center for Sexual Reproductive Rights (INCRESE) is please to cordially invite you to a press conference to mark the International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO). This is in an effort to articulate our advocacy against discrimination meted on sexual minorities and people living with disabilities in Nigeria.

Please below are the full details of the event;
Date: Saturday 16th May, 2009
Time: 10am
Venue: AHI Conference Hall- 17 Lawal Street off Oweh street. Jibowu. Yaba. Lagos.
Please kindly confirm your participation as soon as you receive this invitation.
Deadline for confirmation is Wednesday 13th May

Come let's join our hand to fight all forms of discrimination.

For further information, please contact Ohwerhi Efe Brown through 08082685594.
Thank you and we look forward to seeing you.

PS: Note that travel reimbursement will be made.

Is Homosexuality a Sin?

2009-05-07T09:26:00.001-07:00

Is Homosexuality a Sin?by Rev. Dr. Kathlyn James

Rev. Dr. Kathlyn James, First United Methodist Church, SeattleThis sermon was delivered by Rev. James to Lake Washington United Methodist Church in 1997, and is reprinted here with permission.

Last August, we had a special Sunday in church called "Burning Questions," in which I responded, on an impromptu basis, to written questions from the congregation. At that time, I also promised to preach a series of sermons later in the year that would specifically address the top three, or most-asked questions submitted on that day. I have to admit, I could not have predicted the 'top three' questions that would come my way! They were: (1) Is homosexuality a sin? (2) Is there a hell? And (3) How can we forgive? This morning we begin by looking at the first of these: Is homosexuality a sin?

In preparation for today, I gathered together all the materials I could find on this subject. I gathered official denominational studies on homosexuality and the church -- not only the United Methodist study guide, but also documents from the Lutherans, Presbyterians, the United Church of Christ. I also made a stack of books with titles like Living in Sin? by an Episcopal bishop, and Is the Homosexual My Neighbor? by two evangelicals. I eventually had a stack of books and papers a foot deep on my desk. I spent the next several days reading, making notes, and preparing a line of argument for this morning's sermon.

But long about Tuesday of this week, I stopped and asked myself a question. What was my goal -- what is my goal, in addressing this topic from the pulpit this morning?

As your pastor, I know very well that homosexuality is a tender subject among us. It is an issues on which, as Christian people, we have diverse opinions and often very complex feelings. But I also know that this is a real question among us; it is not just a theoretical one. That's why you raised it. There are parents sitting here this morning who are wondering why their child is gay, if it means they've done something wrong, if anyone else has ever struggled with this. There are gay and lesbian Christians who are active members of the church, but who live in the closet because they don't want to lose their jobs, their homes, or your friendship and respect.
There are teenagers here who have contemplated suicide because they suspect they might be gay. Each of us here has our own background, confusion, and experience with this issue. It is time we talked about it.

My goal, this morning is to open the conversation. And this is the thought that occurred to me on Tuesday: what is the best way to begin the conversation? It's not by presenting a logical line of argument. That's how you begin a debate, not a conversation! The best way to begin a conversation, in which you want others to feel free to speak their mind, and no perspective to be silenced, is simply speak from your heart, out of your own experiences.

So let me set aside my pile of books and papers, this morning, and share with you at least part of my own journey around this issue. In the months ahead, beginning with the "dialogue" time immediately following church today, I invite you to do the same.

I grew up in an atmosphere of traditional values. My family belonged to a Congregational church in which, week after week, I absorbed a basically mainline Christian theology that emphasized the love of God for all people I was taught that the most important thing in life is to love God, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. In that environment, oddly enough, I don't remember one word ever being spoken about homosexuality. I don't even know when I first heard the term -- probably not before high school. When I did, it was not with any heavy overlay of negativity -- and in this, I have come to realize, my experience is very different from many people's. I did not grow up being told homosexuality was shameful or sordid; I never had a bad experience such as being molested by a person of my own gender. Only as an adult do I realize what a tremendous impact such early experiences have in shaping people's attitudes toward homosexuality.
In fact, I had never met a homosexual person, as far as I knew, even into my twenties. This combination of influences meant that my attitude was pretty much "live-and-let-live." I didn't see how it hurt anyone, or how it threatened me, if two people of the same sex wanted to love each other and live together. What was the big deal?

It really wasn't until seminary, when I was thirty years old, that the issue acquired a human face for me. Her name was Sally. I was a commuting student at Vancouver School of Theology, with a job and a husband and three children in Seattle. I drove up to Vancouver on Mondays and came home on Wednesdays, so I needed a place to stay two nights a week. Sally had a studio apartment on campus that she was willing to share in return for prorated rent. Over the next three years, Sally and I became fast friends.

I had never met anyone like Sally. For one thing, she was much more disciplined in her spiritual life than I was. She got up at 5:00 every morning, which I thought of as an ungodly hour, and left the apartment for a walk or a bike ride, during which she would pray. She bought all her clothes at Goodwill and had only five changes of clothing and two pairs of shoes in the closet. She spent several days a week volunteering in a soup kitchen downtown. She kept a prayer journal. Basically, she put me to shame. But the most appealing thing about Sally was that she loved God. She laughed easily, loved life, loved people, was funny and fun. One night, as we were going to bed--each of us in a single bed lined against the wall, our heads in the corners and our feet toward each other --she asked if I wanted to pray. I had never prayed with another person before--at least, not like that, opening our inner lives before God, in each other's presence--and at first I was halting and shy. But over time we made a habit of praying together, and it was in the course of those years of praying, of being honest with ourselves as possible in the presence of God, that Sally came out to herself as gay.

It was no problem for me that Sally was discovering this--and I have to add here, that like most people, Sally discovered her sexual orientation; it wasn't something she decided. Isn't that true for you, that your sexual orientation is something that just seems "given"? It wasn't as if Sally woke up one morning and thought, "All things being equal, I think I'd like to be a member of a despised minority." It was more a process of discovering and owning the truth about her make-up as a human being.

But I soon learned what a traumatic discovery that would be. Sally came out first to herself before God, then to her family, then to the seminary, then to the church. I accompanied her in that process. When the Presbyterian Church kicked her out of the ordination process, I was stricken; how could they say that Sally was not qualified to be a pastor? She was the best student in her class, and a better Christian than I ever expect to be. I knew that she had been gifted and called to the ministry. Then Sally was fired from her job as the Youth Director at the church, because someone sent the pastor a letter saying that she was gay. All I could think at the time was; this is absurd, this is evil. Sally is great with those kids; why would people assume she is not safe to work with them? Why did they think a heterosexual man or woman would be safer?

Things came to a head for me, one morning, when I was standing in the kitchen, pouring a glass of orange juice, and listening to Sally cry her eyes out on the bed. She often did, in those days. Finally I went over to her, sat on the edge of the bed, and began to stroke her hair. I was filled with helpless rage at the world, and fierce tenderness for my friend. I heard myself saying, "Sally, I don't know what being gay is. But if it's part of who you are, and if God made you this way, I say I'm glad you are who you are, and I love who you are, and I wouldn't want you to be any different."

As soon as those words were out of my mouth, I realized something. I had taken a stand. I knew where I stood on this issue. Sally did not deserve to be despised and rejected; it was the church who was wrong. After seminary I was appointed to serve Wallingford United Methodist Church in Seattle, which had decided some years earlier to become a reconciling congregation -- that is, a congregation that publicly states it is open and affirming toward all people, regardless of sexual orientation. From that point on, my learning curve was steep! One of my first pastoral calls was to a young man who had just slit his wrists with a razor blade. He explained that he was a Christian and couldn't deny it, that he was also gay and couldn't deny that either, even tough he had tried. He had been told he couldn't be both. His father had called him "human garbage." He was not fit to live. All I could do, in response, was to get down on my knees and ask for forgiveness for the church, for communicating to this young man that he was beyond the reach of God's love.

In the five years that followed, I had many such experiences. I had young men with AIDS look up at me with hollow eyes and ask, "Do you think I am an abomination?" I sat with young men calling for their parents as they died, parents who never came. These experiences had a profound impact on me. I kept going back in my mind, again, and again, to my earliest Christian training; the message that God loves everyone, and that Jesus said to love your neighbor as yourself. He didn't say, "love your neighbor, unless he or she happens to be homosexual." He never said one word about homosexuality at all.

Jesus spent his whole life going to the poor, the marginalized, the persons who were called unclean by their society, and demonstrating that God's love included them. He treated them with compassion. His own harshest words were for the Pharisees who believed that they were righteous in God's eyes, that others were not, and that God's judgments and opinions were identical to their own.

Which brings me to the question of what the Bible has to say about homosexuality. There is not time, this morning, to take up that question in depth -- we will have plenty of time for that later, in ongoing Bible studies and discussion. But let me say a few things here. The world "homosexual" does not appear anywhere in the Bible -- that words was not invented in any language, until the 1890s, when for the first time the awareness developed that there are people with a constitutional orientation toward their own sex.

In the whole Bible, there are only seven brief passages that deal with homosexual behavior. The first is the story of Sodom and Gomorra, which I preached on last fall, which is actually irrelevant to the issue. The attempted gang rape in Sodom has nothing to say about whether or not genuine love expressed between consenting adults of the same gender is legitimate.
Neither does the passage in Deuteronomy 23, which refers to Canaanite fertility rites that have infiltrated Jewish worship. Passages in I Corinthians and I Timothy refer to male prostitution. Two often-quoted passages prohibiting male homosexual behavior are found in the book of Leviticus. Leviticus also stipulates that any man who touches a woman during her menstrual period is to be stoned to death, that adulterers are to be executed, that interracial marriage is sinful, that two types of cloth are not to be worn together, and certain foods must never be eaten.

I know of no Christians, no matter how fundamentalist, who believe that Christians are bound to obey all of the Levitical laws. Instead we are driven to ask deeper questions about how to rightly interpret Scripture, how to separate the Word of God from cultural norms and prejudices -- that is, how to separate the Message from the envelope in which it comes.

The final Biblical text that deals with homosexual behavior is found in Paul's letter to the Romans, in which he unequivocally condemns homosexual behavior. The background for his understanding was the common Roman practice of older males 'keeping' young boys for sexual exploitation, which he was right to condemn.

But even if this were not the case, even if Paul knew about and condemned all forms of homosexual behavior, even the most loving, what then? Paul also told women not to teach, not to cut their hair, not to speak in church. Do we follow his teaching? He told slaves to obey their masters not once, but five times -- are we prepared to say today, as Southern slave owners argued 150 years ago, that slavery is God's will?

The fact is, I am not a disciple of Paul. I am an admirer of Paul, but a disciple of Jesus Christ. Paul himself says that we should not follow him, but Christ alone. So I come back, again to the life and teaching of Jesus as the center of my faith. In that light all other biblical teaching must be critiqued. There are seven passages about homosexual behavior in the Bible, all of which are debatable as to their meaning for us today. There are thousands of references in the Bible that call us, as Jesus commands, to love our neighbor, to work for peace and reconciliation among all people, and to leave judgment to God.

When I was pastor at Wallingford, I put biblical and intellectual foundations under my "heart" experience of knowing Sally. In those years I also came to appreciate a community in which both gay and straight Christians could worship together, serve on the Trustees, sing in the choir -- simply be human together, trying to grow in the capacity to love God and neighbor without fear.
As a result, when you ask me, "Is homosexuality a sin?" My answer today is: "No." I may be wrong, and I ask God's forgiveness if I am. But I don't believe that sexual orientation has anything to do with morality, any more than being blond or tall or left-handed does. Homosexuals as well as heterosexuals can be involved in sexual sin, including promiscuity, infidelity, and abuse. And homosexuals as well as heterosexuals can love one another with faithfulness, tenderness, and integrity. The same standards of moral behavior should apply to Christians, straight and gay. That is what my life experience as a pastor has led me to believe.
When a homosexual couple comes to meet with me in my office, then, and asks, "Will we be accepted in this church?" I can answer, "I will accept you." But I can only speak for myself. What shall I say on behalf of our whole congregation?

Shall I say, "Yes, you will be accepted here, as long as you aren't open about who you are and who you love?" Shall I say, "Yes, you will be accepted here, but you may not serve in any leadership positions." Shall I say, "Yes, you will be accepted here, but whatever you do, don't hold hands in church. Only heterosexual couples are allowed to do that." Shall I just say, "No." Or, perhaps, simply, "Yes."

The only way we will arrive at a consensus on how this question should be answered is by taking time, over the coming year, to examine ourselves, study the Bible, think, read, pray, listen, and share our diverse life experiences with each other, asking together what God is calling this congregation to do and be.

Let the conversation begin.
Amen.

Rev. Dr. Kathlyn James is the Senior Pastor of First United Methodist Church, Seattle, Washington.

Bishop Yvette Flunder To Receive Clergy Credentials

2009-05-02T09:49:00.000-07:00

N E W S R E L E A S E

For Immediate Release

Bishop Yvette Flunder To Receive Clergy Credentialsin Denomination of Metropolitan Community Churches

May 3rd Event In Washington DC Another Step In DeepeningThe Relationship Between MCC, The Fellowship, Says MCC ModeratorWASHINGTON, DC-Bishop Yvette Flunder, presiding bishop of The Fellowship, a movement of churches and faith leaders built on God's radically inclusive love, will receive clergy credentials in Metropolitan Community Churches during events in Washington, DC on Sunday, May 3, 2009. Metropolitan Community Churches is the world's largest and oldest Christian denomination with a primary affirming ministry to lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons, along with their families, friends, and allies.

Bishop Flunder, an internationally-known preacher, educator, conference speaker and singer, holds clergy credentials in the United Church of Christ and founded City of Refuge United Church of Christ in San Francisco in 1991. In 2003, she was consecrated Presiding Bishop of The Fellowship, a multi-denominational movement of more than 50 churches and faith organizations in the U.S. and Africa.

Rev. Flunder has served as a consultant to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Congressional Black Caucus Health Brain Trust and the Department of Health and Human Services. She is the past board president of Justice and Witness Ministries for the United Church of Christ. Bishop Flunder currently serves as a board member of the National Sexuality Resource Center and is a trustee of Pacific School of Religion. Rev. Elder Nancy Wilson, moderator of Metropolitan Community Churches, said, "We share a deep connection with Bishop Flunder and The Fellowship; we share a common calling and a common ministry of inclusive Christianity. In a very real sense, she has been part of our movement for a long time." Both The Fellowship and Metropolitan Community Churches offer positive, welcoming ministry to the LGBT communities and preach an inclusive gospel message. For additional information on the intentional relationship-building between the two faith organizations, read "From Cooperation to Collaboration: Growing Relationship Between MCC and the Fellowship "

"In ordaining Bishop Flunder as clergy within Metropolitan Community Churches, we affirm our trust in her ministry in the Fellowship," added Rev. Wilson. "We know that the same Spirit that animates MCC animates the Fellowship; we are one in Christ. We value Bishop Flunder's ministry, celebrate her calling, and honor her contributions to us."In remarks this week, Bishop Flunder noted, "For years I have deeply appreciated the contribution of Metropolitan Community Churches to the 'Jesus' work of ending injustice everywhere. The justice work of MCC has not been limited to extending God's Extravagant Grace to sexual minority communities; it has also made a significant impact in bringing an end to racism, sexism, patriarchy and war. This is a Church that had its beginnings in the fire of Pentecostalism and political awareness...Spirit and Truth. I am thrilled to embody a connection between the United Church of Christ, The Fellowship and Metropolitan Community Churches...great justice movements of our time."

Rev. Wilson indicated that she will also seek clergy credentialing with The Fellowship "as part of our ongoing commitment to strengthen and deepen the relationship between our two movements." Bishop Flunder is a graduate of the Ministry Studies and Master of Arts programs at the Pacific School of Religion, Berkeley, California, and holds the Doctor of Ministry degree from San Francisco Theological Seminary, San Anselmo, California. She is the author of Where The Edge Gathers: Building A Community of Radical Inclusion. MCC clergy credentials will be conferred upon Bishop Flunder during the 11 am worship service of Metropolitan Community Church of Washington, DC, 474 Ridge Street NW, Washington, DC 20001 where Rev. Dr. Charlie Arehart is interim pastor. The occasion will mark the first time since 2005 that MCC has extended extraordinary credentials, and the first during the tenure of Rev. Nancy L. Wilson as MCC Moderator. ( E N D )

To Arrange Media Interviews

With Bishop Yvette Flunder,

Contact:Franzetta Houston

Assistant to the Bishop

Tel. (415) 350-3350E-mail: TheFellowship@pacbell.net

To Arrange Media Interviews

With Rev. Elder Nancy Wilson,

Contact:Jim BirkittCommunications Director

Metropolitan Community Churches

Tel. (310) 625-4177E-mail: info@MCCchurch.net

UGANDA: When Christians condemn God’s children during the Easter season

2009-04-14T01:34:00.000-07:00

When Christians condemn God’s children during the Easter season

http://www.monitor.co.ug/artman/publish/Tabaire/When_Christians_condemn_God_s_children_during_the_Easter_season_82994.shtml

It is Holy Saturday, today, the final day of Holy Week and of Lent – “a period of spiritual preparation for Easter which typically involves fasting, penance and prayer”.
Besides fasting, penance and prayer, the Lent period in Uganda this year has been characterised by something else: virulent gay-bashing.

This is a project that has been, and is still being, championed by “serious” Christians such as Mr Stephen “Heterosexual” Langa of the Family Life Network and Pastor Martin “Heterosexual” Ssempa of Makerere Community Church. And yet we are all, in our ‘sinning’ difference, God’s children! What happened to tolerance and understanding as cherished values in Christ’s church and civilised society in general?

Well, homosexuality is illegal in Uganda. That much, even if nonsensical, is clear. What is not clear is Mr Langa’s bigoted behaviour and how he goes about displaying it. He seems to have unilaterally declared 2009 the Year of Homophobia in Uganda. He spent much of March parading several men (and why no women?) who claimed they are reformed homosexuals. Good for them.

But here are some questions. Where did Mr Langa find these eight-plus men, led by George “Georgina” Oundo? What attracted these men to Mr Langa and not Archbishop Luke Orombi, for example? Had he all along known them to be gay? Or had he planted them in the local gay community in the first place as part of a plan to undermine gays and lesbians in Uganda? Do the police have any reason to not look closely into the activities of the Family Life Network?
More disturbing are the allegations that the men, especially Georgina Oundo and Emma Matovu, are making. They say they were engaged in “recruiting” school children into homosexuality using money from the immoral Western world. Fine.

But enticing minors into sexual activity, any sexual activity, is illegal as well. So why are the Georginas not reporting this matter to the police? Why do they report to Mr Langa’s little outfit? If they do not know about the rights of children, surely, Mr Langa knows. Why does he then not encourage them to report these things to the police?

In fact, the police should swing into action and arrest anyone, straight or gay, who has lured children to sexual activity. Otherwise they will stand accused of going along with Mr Langa’s posturing as the guarantor of morality in Uganda.

Indeed, the main point that has come out of Mr Langa’s shrill anti-gay crusade is that adults are messing with our children. This, though, begs the question: what has recruitment of children into homosexuality got to do with two consenting adults having a sexual relationship? In his zeal, Mr Langa appears over his head here. He needs to straighten his priorities not gays and lesbians.
Another significant aspect out of the confessions is that money is pouring in from the West to promote homosexuality. The real message is that if there was no money from outside, no Ugandan would be lesbian or gay or bisexual or transgender.

How fanciful! Let us grant for a moment, however, that the argument is correct. How then to explain “former homosexual” Charles Asiimwe’s statement that “many business moguls are involved” in homosexuality? If being gay is about making money, why would business moguls be gay? How much more money can a mogul possibly make from Western handouts by being gay? Or did these moguls become wealthy because they are gay?

“We shall expose those who refuse to abandon the practice and we shall not be intimidated because we are protected by Jesus,” Georgina thundered at one of many recent Langa-organised public spectacles.

There is something potentially dangerous in what Mr Langa is doing in inveighing against fellow Ugandans just because they are not heterosexual. It will come as no surprise if individuals falsely name others as gay or lesbian to settle personal scores.

A Catholic priest, Fr Anthony Musaala, has already been named. He has strongly denied that he is gay saying he ministers to all irrespective of sexual preference – as it should be – and his parish of St. Matia Mulumba in Old Kampala has defended him. Kampala Archbishop Cyprian Lwanga, however, appears unimpressed and is going ahead with an investigation.
Worse could happen. On Tuesday, The New York Times published a story out of Iraq. The first two paragraphs read thus: “The relative freedom of a newly democratic Iraq and the recent improvement in security have allowed a gay subculture to flourish ... The response has been swift and deadly.

“In the past two months, the bodies of as many as 25 boys and men suspected of being gay have turned up in the huge Shiite enclave of Sadr City, the police and friends of the dead say. Most have been shot, some multiple times. Several have been found with the word “pervert” in Arabic on notes attached to their bodies, the police said.”

I hope fasting, penance and prayer truly mean something to Mr Langa, Pastor Ssempa and Ethics Minister Nsaba Buturo. Happy Easter to you all. Irrespective of sexual orientation.
bentab@hotmail.com

Anti-Gay Bullying Claims Another Young Life

2009-04-11T02:21:00.001-07:00

Anti-Gay Bullying Claims Another Young Life.

See the story below, I could not help my self this morning, hopelessly I shed tears in my pain and anguish, this could have been my child, this young boy was defenceless against the torrent of abuses and the only way out for him was to take his life.

Our community from Nigeria to the USA, mourn yet another loss and we continue to hold Carl's family, friends, allies and the entire Global LGBT communities in our prayers, we send prayers of hope throughout the world to all people trapped in painful and dangerous situation. As a gay man from Nigeria and also a Christian leader, our work is to continue the effort to educate all people everywhere.

Another tormented grade schooler, another little kid who thinks there's only one way out. "An 11-year-old Massachusetts boy, Carl Joseph Walker-Hoover, hung himself Monday after enduring bullying at school, including daily taunts of being gay, despite his mother’s weekly pleas to the school to address the problem. This is at least the fourth suicide of a middle-school aged child linked to bullying this year. Carl, a junior at New Leadership Charter School in Springfield who did not identify as gay, would have turned 12 on April 17, the same day hundreds of thousands of students will participate in the 13th annual National Day of Silence by taking some form of a vow of silence to bring attention to anti-LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) bullying and harassment at school. The other three known cases of suicide among middle-school students took place in Chatham, Evanston and Chicago, Ill., in the month of February." [GLSEN]

Homosexuality And Human Rights in Nigeria

2009-04-05T06:23:00.000-07:00

Homosexuality And Human RightsBy Leo Igwe

I READ with great interest the piece "Limits to Freedom and Human Rights" by Luke Onyekakeyah (March 17, 2009) and The Guardian Editorial "Homosexuality and the Lawmakers" (March 23, 2009). I have followed closely and attentively the debates, arguments and lobbying for and against the same sex marriage prohibition bill. I have read and documented many reports, opinions and editorials on the matter. I attended the three public hearings on this bill.

And I must say that I am deeply shocked by the spurious arguments, reckless statements, fanatical outbursts, inane propositions, false, biased and misleading reports that have marked the debate over same gender marriage in Nigeria. We must not forget that it is critical issues like this that put to test, show and demonstrate the quality of a people's character, thinking, intelligence and reasoning. And I am sorry to say that we have performed poorly by allowing hatred, prejudice and religious fanaticism to becloud our sense of ethical thinking, moral reasoning and social justice. We have failed to handle the issue of homosexuality with the maturity, civility and level-headedness it deserves.

Before stating my objections to the points raised in the above mentioned articles, permit me to make some clarifications.

First of all, there are no gay couples in Nigeria asking for marriage or for the solemnization of their union. Second, the bill before the National Assembly is not for the legalization of gay marriage but for its prohibition. Third, there is a provision in the Nigerian criminal and penal codes that prohibits homosexuality or sodomy. And this provision has not been repealed. Fourth, there is no bill at the National Assembly to decriminalise sodomy- a necessary step before same sex marriage can be legalised.

So, one mistake those supporting the bill are making is that they think that a defeat of the bill would mean a decriminalisation of homosexuality and a legalisation of gay marriage.
This is not the case. Like I have told some supporters of the bill, opposition is not necessarily a proposition. Those asking that this bill be dropped are not necessarily proposing that Nigeria should legalise same sex marriage.

Having said that, I want to state that I agree with The Guardian Editorial that our lawmakers should rather make a better use of their legislative time and resources by focusing on basic problems facing Nigeria, like hunger, poverty ignorance, unemployment, lack of access to water and electricity, and diseases. That our legislators should stop preoccupying themselves with 'a redundant bill that stigmatises the sexual minority.'

But Luke Onyekakeyah thinks otherwise. He identified homosexuality as a great evil and a form of moral depravity beyond the limits of human freedom and human rights. But he failed to tell us how a homosexual relationship constitutes an act of moral perversion and excessiveness. Homosexual acts are human acts. Aren't they? He did not let us know how he arrived at what he called the limits of freedom and human rights, and what puts same sex relationships beyond those limits. More importantly Onyekakeyah did not explain what makes a same gender marriage prohibition bill necessary in a country where homosexuality is already a crime. He did not say what this bill seeks to achieve that has not essentially been taken care of by the provisions in the criminal and penal codes that prohibit sodomy.

Instead of addressing these points Onyekakeyah went further to attack and malign Transparency International, Human Rights Watch, Global Rights and other foreign-based organisations which he said knew nothing about 'Nigerian tradition and values'. I think we have gotten to a stage where we should stop discrediting an organization or a position just because it is foreign. The language we are using to discuss this issue is foreign. Isn't it?

For Onyekakeyah, whatever he calls 'Nigerian traditions and values' should take precedent over human rights. And on this I say, count me out. Yes, count me out of this line of thought because I know one of the things human rights principles have achieved for human beings is to liberate us from the tyranny of religions, customs and traditions. The same fallacious argument was made by The Guardian Editorial. It stated "we must come to look at the issue of same sex relationships from the prism of our culture and religion" And my question is this, which one is our culture? Which one is our religion? Nigeria, nay Africa is a pot pourri of cultures, religions and traditions.

The Editorial went further to say that "The various religions of the world do not condone homosexuality, Christianity and Islam, Nigeria's largest religions in particular condemn homosexuality". Religions are codifications of moral outlooks that prevailed at the infancy of the human race. That an act is condoned or condemned by religions does not make it moral or immoral. Nigeria's dominant religions sanction and sanctify so many immoral acts like slavery, genocide, subordination of women, killing and persecution of witches and unbelievers, capital and corporal punishments, etc.

There are many cultural practices that are inhuman, harmful and abhorrent like the killing of twins, the burning of witches, human sacrifice etc. So, that a practice is endorsed by "our culture or religion" does not make it morally justifiable. Again, when we stay "our culture" or "our religion", what do we really mean? Is Christianity our religion? No. Christianity was brought by foreign missionaries from Europe. Is Islam our religion? No. Islam was introduced by Arab jihadists from North Africa and the Middle East.

Unfortunately, we have embraced these alien religions as our own. We have allowed these primitive faiths and norms to color and corrupt our ethical thinking and moral reasoning. We have allowed religion to dictate and determine our public policy and legislation.
Another point we must note is that cultures are dynamic. Every culture changes. Cultures grow and evolve. Any culture that remains static stagnates and dies. Every culture influences and is influenced by other cultures. And today, one of the major factors that are shaping cultures across the world is human rights.

In fact, human rights have become the mainstay of global culture and civilization.
Obviously Onyekakeyah and The Guardian Editorial Board would want human rights sacrificed on the altar of culture and religion. And on this again I say "Count me out". Count me out of the absurd idea that the only choice open to gay persons in Nigeria is to "marry members of the opposite sex or remain single". It is not the duty of editors or legislators to tell adults whom to marry. In fact the state cannot legislate when it comes to matters concerning consensual sexual relationships among adults.

Before I conclude I would like to correct some misinformation in one of the articles. Onyekakeyah said that "hundreds of homosexuals on Wednesday, March 11 2009 stormed Nigeria's National Assembly in Abuja". I was among those who attended the public hearing in Abuja. There weren't up to a hundred homosexuals at the event. I am not sure there were up to 50 of them. So where did Luke get his information from. If there was any delegation that stormed the National Assembly it was the clerics from the Anglican Communion and members of the Daughters of Sarah Ministry. The Daughters of Sarah Ministry came to the Hearing with buses packed with school children and youths wearing T-shirts and carrying banners with anti-same gender marriage inscriptions. Didn't the journalists see them? Also during the hearing two legislators made very important remarks. They said the House would need more information about homosexuality. That they would like to know if homosexuality was a disease or a biological condition. And that this would help them in shaping the bill. But no newspaper reported all these.
In conclusion, I want to say that if we are not ready to handle the issue of homosexuality in an enlightened, civilized and balanced manner then we should leave the matter to rest. Otherwise no matter the argument some of us may put forward in the name of culture, religion or tradition, to support this draconian bill and whip up hatred, intolerance, persecution and discrimination against persons on the basis of gender or sexual orientation, at the end of the day, human rights must prevail. Human rights will prevail.
*Igwe is the Founder/Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Humanist Movement.

Who Is Manipulating the Truth?

2009-04-04T00:15:00.000-07:00

Who is Manipulating the Truth?

A message received on our Youtube blog http://www.youtube.com/HouseOfRainbow

Title: Dont Manipulate the Truth
AqaMan84: (YouTube) 11 And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.I did not leave this verse out, the implication is for those who have confessed their sin and have asked for forgiveness. You still haven't acknowledged your sin before God. So how can you be washed. Furthermore if fornication, idolatry, homosexuality, etc. are not sins than you need not to be washed or justified. But Paul in the beginning of the verse calls these behaviors unrighteous. Paul is stating that though we were these things, through Christ Jesus we are now new creatures. Once we become justified are we to still live as drunkards, adulterers, liars, effeminate (homosexuals). No true repentance is how we get the remission of sin. We must flee from sexual immorality and all things that are impure. For our bodies are the temple of the Lord. Please repent. I do not condemn. What gain is there in seeing someone perish.

Rev Jide Response
Rev Jide: We are not manipulating the truth, I do not condone sexual immorality either, the fact is that we least understand the mysteries of God, the manipulation of the truth is the failure to see the love of God in all things that we do. You say you are not condemning. Read Roman 8:1-2 (there is no condemnation). then verses33-39, (who will bring a charge against God's elect) Read Romans 9:19-25, (those who are not loved I will call beloved, and the very place where they are not loved they shall be called Children of the living God) then read John 9:35-41, (Jesus spoke about the ignorance which he referred to as spiritual blindness), Ephesian 4:14, (says we are no longer children).

Col 3:11, In that renewal* there is no longer Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and free; but Christ is all and in all!

It is understandable that people will feel that same sex relationship is a sin if they are not Gay, the truth for me and many people is that we have been abused under the system of ignorance, religious homophobia, what will you say to a transgender person?

The bible was used to justify slavery, misogyny, oppression of women, alienate interracial marriage, at one point Christians promoted discrimination and shamefully still does, Black people could not seat in the same church as white, it seems that people have soon forgotten the history of African Americans to concede hatred.

In my adult live I have not seen any more campaign of hate with so much venom but from other Religious people and it makes me wonder. I know who I am and I know whose I am, that is the truth.

What I am about and we do is preach the love of God to all people, bring the inclusive love of Jesus to all people. And that is the truth, which has set us free.

Read the Gospel of Inclusion by Bishop Carlton Pearson.
Read Other Voices Other World by Bishop Terry Brown.

Find out more about homosexuality before launching an attack, the truth is not easy to come by, what you are asking gays and lesbians to do is deny who they are, deny their humanity and thus deny the creativity of God, and this is more based on people's sheer ignorance of our humanity.

Ask any openly gay person what does it feel like living in the closet and being free, we are persecuted daily, how many times have you posted lengthy messages to condemn drunkenness or adultery, how many times have people been fired from their jobs or evicted from their homes because of adultery. You need to read more updated and modern versions of the bible, it does not change the truth, it simply corrects a few notions and misguided interpretation. For example, the word homosexual and Effeminate from the KJV is not used in the Today New International Version, it was referred to as Homosexual Offenders, for me and many people that is more appropriate.

Do a comparative study by visiting the following websites. Speak to gay people and listen to their stories from their heart.

http://wouldjesusdiscriminate.org/
http://www.soulforce.org/
http://www.religioustolerance.org/

Thanks for your message, God be with you and bless you always

Rev Macaulay

Update On Our Online Inclusive Mission

2009-04-02T01:53:00.000-07:00

With nearly 4000 hits on our videos since October 2008, the messages with Rev Jide Macaulay are inspirational, provocative, inclusive and there is more to come, visit us at http://www.youtube.com/HouseOfRainbow Also join our online membership discussion forum with more than 300 participants, 40 countries, photo gallery, over 100 topics, 60 video clips, create your own page, invite your friends etc http://spiritualityandsexuality.ning.com/, Be blessed.

Food For Thought

2009-04-01T08:22:00.001-07:00

Food for Thought: get sick of listening to straight people complain about, "Well, hey, we don't have a heterosexual-pride day, why do you need a gay-pride day?" I remember when I was a kid I'd always ask my mom: "Why don't we have a Kid's Day? We have a Mother's Day and a Father's Day, but why don't we have a Kid's Day?" My mom would always say, "Every day is Kid's Day." To all those heterosexuals that bitch about gay pride, I say the same thing: Every day is heterosexual-pride day! Can't you people enjoy your banquet and not piss on those of us enjoying our crumbs over here in the corner

Palm Sunday Service With Rev Jide Macaulay @ MCC East London UK

2009-03-25T03:09:00.000-07:00

Palm Sunday Service With Rev Jide Macaulay @ MCC East London UK

Host: Metropolitan Community Church East LondonType: Meetings - ConventionNetwork: GlobalDate: Sunday, April 5, 2009Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pmLocation: Metropolitan Community Church East London @ St Bartholomew's Church, Barking Road East HamStreet: 292B Barking Road East Ham E6 3BACity/Town: London, United Kingdom

On Palm Sunday Christians celebrate the Triumphal Entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, the week before the death and resurrection of Jesus. The Bible reveals that when Jesus entered Jerusalem, the crowds greeted him with waving palm branches, and by covering his path with palm branches. Immediately following this great time of celebration in the ministry of Jesus, he begins his journey to the cross. We invite you to MCC East London UK for this historical celebration. Please pass on to your friends and network.

Homosexuality and the Nigerian lawmakers

2009-03-23T03:29:00.000-07:00

Below is an editorial in the Nigerian Guardians Newspaper this morning following a response to a bias article published last week. http://www.ngrguardiannews.com/editorial_opinion/article01/indexn2_html?pdate=230309&ptitle=Homosexuality%20and%20the%20lawmakers

Homosexuality and the lawmakers

THE question of homosexuality long regarded as taboo in the highly religious society of Nigeria, has of recent been raising its head and profile in the field of public debate. No longer content to remain in the closet, proponents of homosexuality and lesbianism are actively seeking to be heard. They are up against an uphill task as they are pitched not only against culture and religion but against public perception of morality.

The various religions of the world do not condone homosexuality; Christianity and Islam, Nigeria's largest religions, in particular condemn homosexuality. The mere mention of homosexuality is guaranteed to drive many Nigerian Christians and Moslems up the wall in revulsion. But there are others, somewhat tolerant who are inclined to look at the phenomenon as a form of benign affliction from which the victims can be rescued. For this group homosexuals and lesbians should be managed until they return to the path of rectitude. For others however, homosexuality is not a stigma but a biological condition, which is as perfectly normal as heterosexual orientation.

These issues came to the fore recently when a bill to ban same sex marriages in Nigeria was tabled before the National Assembly. An attempt to obtain public reaction to the bill turned into an occasion of high drama. A group of young people under the lugubrious name of Queer Alliance stormed the House of Representatives in Abuja to protest what they say is discrimination against their fundamental human rights if a bill banning same sex marriages in Nigeria were passed. They have been joined by Amnesty International, Global Rights, Human Rights Watch and some Lesbian organisations which argue that if the bill were passed, Nigeria's obligations under the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights would be undermined.

Pitched against the homosexuals are religious bodies comprising the Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion and Daughters of Sarah Ministry. They warn that same sex marriages would destroy the will of God for mankind as He created us male and female. They totally reject same sex marriages as ungodly, unprofitable, unhealthy and un-African. The position of the Anglican Communion in Nigeria on homosexuality as articulated by the Very Reverend Peter Akinola is well known. In 2004, more than 300 bishops congregated in Lagos and resolved among other things not to have anything to do with homosexuality. The great Lambeth Hall, home of Anglicanism is wobbling over the issue of homosexuality and a schism is yet to be averted.

The problem with Nigerians is that we are all too eager to copy the latest fads from the western world. Not every product from the West is good and the well-heeled homosexual lobby is one such example. We must come to look at the issue of same sex relationships from the prism of our culture and religion. For the African, the idea that a man can be married to a man or a woman to a woman is anathema. The culture of marriage is predicated on the union between a man and a woman and all our traditional practices and normative values regarding marriage are based on the assumption that the other member is of the opposite sex. African parents prepare their children from birth through adolescence for marriage to the opposite sex.

Too many things will be upset were it possible to upturn age-old customs and practices. Those who argue that opposition to homosexuality amounts to a violation of universal human rights, may well need to realise that the dislike of homosexuality is not inconsistent with the observance of human rights. Nigerian homosexuals are not pilloried for being gay. They have a choice: they can marry members of the opposite sex or stay single. They only draw unfavourable attention to themselves when they threaten the safety and security of the majority.

Africans have a right to say 'no' to a movement whose ultimate outcome will be the destruction of the family. Homosexuals are claiming that men can marry themselves. If everyone followed their example, would they have even been born? Looking at the debate, we conclude that in the short run both parties cannot be reconciled without grave injuries being done to either of them. Since sodomy is already criminalised in Nigeria, we wonder whether the National Assembly is utilising its time optimally by focusing on homosexuality when the majority of our people are suffering from hunger, lack of access to water and disease.

Moreover, as pointed out by the gay lobbyists, same sex marriage is not a common social practice in Nigeria therefore legislating against it is redundant and can only further stigmatise the sexual minority. Perhaps the National Assembly should be spending its time on real issues that impact on the lives of long-suffering Nigerians.

Over One Thousands hits on One of our YouTube Video Blog

2009-03-16T15:11:00.000-07:00

Over One Thousands hits on One of our YouTube Video Blog

http://www.youtube.com/HouseOfRainbow

I am excited and I rush this news to you that we have received over a thousand hits on one of the videos posted.All glory to God. Thanks to the unconditional and undeniable love of God and the undisputable sacrifice of JesusTo date we have twenty videos posted, with the expectation of more key messages to be posted. We have received nearly 70 posted messages, from the good to the ugly, in all the messages we receive strength and wisdom

House Of Rainbow Metropolitan Community Church Statement at the Public Hearing at the Nigeria Parliament 11th March 2009‏

2009-03-11T15:21:00.000-07:00

To: The Clerk, House Committee on Human Rights, Nigeria.
11th March 2009.
Statement of House Of Rainbow Metropolitan Community Church Nigeria

Dear Honourables, Chairperson, House of Representative, Committee on Human Rights, Interested Members of the public, All stakeholders, Ladies and Gentlemen of the media.

The statement of concern from the entire members of House Of Rainbow Metropolitan Community Church Nigeria, the Pastor, leaders and board of trustees, with regards to a Bill for an Act to prohibit marriage between persons of the same gender, solemnisation of same and other matters related therewith 2008.We express our deep concern and trepidation on the matters before you today as a matter of conscience and denial of Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, and Transgender (LGBT) people in our nation.

The Same Gender Marriage (Prohibition) Bill 2008, which was introduced by the Nigerian National Assembly on 15th of January, 2009, will have an extreme impact on the work and services we provide to include sexual minorities in our communities.We are aware of the Nigeria constitution “Penal Code” which makes Homosexuality illegal under federal law, however, because of widespread taboos against homosexuality, very few persons were openly homosexual and have often been ostracised, rejected and victimised by religious communities, workplace discrimination on these grounds and the society at large.

Violence against LGBT people is frequent in Nigeria. Since May 2008, several national newspapers published articles criticizing our organization, many of the articles included names, addresses, and photographs of members of the congregation and the pastor. Police harassment and threats forced the church to shut down and the pastor to retreat for safety. Some members of the congregation lost their jobs and were evicted from their homes and had to go into hiding, and several of them continue to be under threat of physical harm and harassment on the ground of their sexual orientation.This legislation would allow the state to invade people’s homes and bedrooms and investigate their private lives, and it would criminalize the work of human rights defenders, and other service providers.

“On September 12, local newspapers Nation, Vanguard, PM News and the Sunday Sun published photos, names, and addresses of members of the House of Rainbow Metropolitan Community Church, a lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered-friendly church in Lagos. Following publication, persons started harassing the 12 members. One woman was attacked by 11 men, while others were threatened, stoned, and beaten. No investigation was initiated by year's end. This was emphasized by the US Secretary of State Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton in the 2008 Human Rights Report”.

We believe that the Same Gender Marriage (Prohibition) Bill will disastrously endorse a climate of homophobia and escalating hate crime against gay and lesbian Nigerian citizens, making them among the most vulnerable in the world to human rights violations, rape, blackmail, injustice, severe abuse and extortion with no recourse to justice.Equal human rights and freedom from persecution are not only humanist and democratic values, they are necessary conditions for the human spirit to thrive. When either is absent, a society foments the conditions for untold suffering among its own people, many Nigerians now questions the nation’s commitment to a democratic state for all constituents, including those considered sexual minority.

The proposed bill, if approved, would seriously restrict essential freedoms as well as the activities of human rights defenders, members of civil society and our inclusive religious community. The United Nations Declaration on Human Rights Defenders holds, in its article 5, that “everyone has the right, individually and in association with others, at the national and international levels: a) to meet or assemble peacefully; b) to form, join and participate in non-governmental organizations, associations or groups.” Article7 of the declaration affirms that “Everyone has the right, individually and in association with others, to develop and discuss new human rights ideas and principles and to advocate their acceptance.”

House Of Rainbow Nigeria is a non government organisation of the Universal Fellowship of the Metropolitan Community Church, with a ministry for Global Justice , we believe that all people are created equal and attest to the diverse unimaginable creation of the almighty God, regardless of race, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and so on.

We promote a God given sexuality against the background of societal hatred and self destructive behaviours.Our work begins where other religious communities end to bring sexual minorities to a safe place of worship, these has been and will continue to be compromised by this bill, which seeks to criminalise any association and or assembly of same gender loving people.We respectfully call on:• The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria• The National House of Assembly (especially the Committees on Human Rights, and the Committee on Judiciary)• The Ministry of Justice• The Joint Committee on Human Rights, Justice and Women Affairs.• And The National Human Rights CommissionTo reverse this harmful legislation and begin reparation by de-criminalising same gender relationships, offering equal protections to Nigerian lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender citizens.

We also call on:• The President of Nigeria to ensure that the human rights of LGBT individuals and human rights defenders in Nigeria are not violated, and to openly denounce and condemn the continuous hounding of the LGBT community, its friends and families, and human rights defenders.• The Nigerian Police and Central Intelligence Department (CID) to protect LGBT individuals from all forms of violence and abuse.• The media to uphold the ethics and tenets of responsible media practice.We have faith in the democratic legislative process and it is with this hope that we believe that Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Nigerians will begin to be valued within civil society and be allowed to positively contribute to the future of this democracy.

We offer our statement in solidarity with all who have been marginalized, praying for a genuine change of heart in this matter to alleviate the suffering caused by grievance, inequality, prejudice, unfairness, injustice, societal and religious homophobia and the possible enactment of this legislation.

Signed House Of Rainbow Metropolitan Community Church Nigeria.