We are just ordinary people, clergy and laity alike, originally from Connecticut, but now from all over our country and world, perhaps even in a town or city near you. We believe that God is bigger than we can possibly imagine and that our theological vision must be expansive enough to include all people.

The Connecticut Statement began its life simply enough as a Google document shared among several clergy colleagues and friends—a mixture of clergy in the LGBTQ community as well as clergy who are straight allies. Over the course of 24 hours — in between church meetings, worship services, wedding rehearsals, and pastoral sessions — we plugged away at it. Together we wrote, edited, offered questions and suggestions, and tweaked until we ended up with what you now see.

I’m not sure that was a question, but your statement is true. Anybody can participate in sound theological discourse! All you need is a few people with whom to dialogue, the more diverse the group, the better. Then start talking about God, the things you believe and know to be true; the things you have encountered in sacred writings; and the questions that are in your heart. Then, slowly begin expanding out from there. Ask yourself, “If I believe x about God, then what does that mean for y?”

Before you know it, you too will have done theology! And the more people who talk and think about theology, the more people who engage and question, the stronger our collective faith becomes.

No. Though many of us are Episcopalian, the Connecticut Statement is much larger than any one Christian tradition, nor does it speak for any particular denomination.

Yes! There have been several wonderfully written responses offered by a variety of voices. Below are a few that we recommend you check out:

Denver Statement

Christians United Statement

First, the more voices involved with theology, and the greater the diversity of those voices, the better. Second, we wanted to take a slightly different approach to our response. One of the difficulties faced by the progressive Christian voice is that it is often caught in a reactive position, having to respond to destructively conservative actions and statements.

This means that the framework of the conversation often gets ceded to the conservative Christian voice. With the Connecticut Statement, we wanted to create, rather than react. We hope that what we have offered here is a fresh and cohesive theological vision, and shows that the progressive Christian voice has a valuable and much needed counterpoint to offer in the public discourse.

First, you can sign the Connecticut Statement and show your support for an expansive theology, big enough for the full diversity of humanity.

Second, you can help spread the good news by sharing the Connecticut Statement with your friends, family, fellow church members, and clergy. Help us spread this positive message! If you post it on social media, use #ConnecticutStatement so that others can see and share what you have to say.

Third, join in the theological discourse. For too long the public conversation has been dominated by a very conservative minority. It is time for us to speak up and change the conversation.