 "There has never been a more critical time in California or in our nation for people of faith to stand up for the truth: that religious beliefs and values should never be a force for harm or used to strip away a person's humanity. Building upon the tremendous momentum and emergent leadership from the “No on Prop 8” campaign, I am honored to be charged with leading CA Faith for Equality through an exciting phase of growth and expansion as a statewide network.
I am a first generation immigrant who grew up in a Southern Baptist household in a British Colony. Today, I serve an urban and majority Hispanic Presbyterian congregation in Los Angeles’ Koreatown. I know firsthand the importance of religious freedom, human rights, equal protection for all and the unique role of faith communities in a pluralistic society. Now is the time for our justice-driven voices of faith to be heard loud and clear, and for us to get serious not only about speaking out for equality, but also about doing the slow and patient work of organizing in congregations and cities whenever and wherever equality is threatened. My pastoral experiences at Immanuel Presbyterian Church have convinced me that communities can hold different personal beliefs, yet be united as a powerful force for equality and justice for all. My community organizing work with the Industrial Areas Foundation in the last decade have shaped both my vision and conviction that organized people can build real and sustainable power for good in the political process and in broader society.
As the interim Executive Director, I will be working with the outstanding members of CA Faith for Equality's sponsoring committee to craft its vision and a new strategic plan while cultivating the relationships and resources needed to implement our long-term goals. I will also be directing our outstanding team to prepare for the Supreme Court's much-anticipated decision on repealing Prop 8 and to strengthen our extensive network of over 6,000 clergy, lay leaders, and supporters across the state. I thank all of you who have been there with CA Faith for Equality from the beginning, and am eager to pursue justice and full equality together." Samuel Chu
More Light Presbyterians congratulates Samuel Chu, his Immanuel Presbyterian Church family, and California Faith for Equality in this selection of Rev. Chu as the interim Executive Director of California Faith for Equality. More Light Presbyterians is committed to spiritual, ordination and marriage equality for all. We look forward to working with Samuel Chu and supporting the efforts of California Faith for Equality.
with hope and grace,
Michael
Michael J. Adee, M.Div., Ph.D., Executive Director & Field Organizer
More Light Presbyterians
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California Faith for Equality educates, supports and mobilizes California's communities of faith to promote lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality in California and to safeguard religious freedom. | |
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