A Pastoral Response to the Repeal of "Don't Ask Don't Tell"

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(From the Minister of The Cathedral of Hope, Dallas' largest lgbt - friendly church)



Dallas, Texas -- September 20, 2011 -- Around the world today, tens of thousands of persons serving in the U.S. military have come out to their families, have married their partners, and have been freed from the burdensome silence of denying a fundamental part of who they are.

Today, the 18-year-old policy known as "don't ask, don't tell" is officially ended, a policy that lead to discharges that removed more than 13,000 men and women from the military under the old ban on openly gay troops. No longer will discrimination force members of our nation’s armed forces to be discharged simply on the basis of whom they love. Today, it is okay to be out and proud to serve in the U.S. military. This is an important step for our nation toward full equality for the LGBTQ community.

When he signed the repeal of "don't ask, don't tell" last December, President Barack Obama said, "e are not a nation that says, 'don't ask, don't tell.' We are a nation that says, 'out of many, we are one.'" And we at Cathedral of Hope, United Church of Christ (UCC), celebrate the truth of this message. Out of many backgrounds, faith traditions and personal histories, we are one congregation, one family, united by the word of Hope. As God's creation, we the people are created in God's image, and we stand as expressions -- in all of our diversity -- of God's love.

I applaud the repeal of "don't ask, don't tell." But I also know that the journey to full equality for all Americans is still ahead to forge. Yet, I have faith that the God who created each of us and called us good is with us on this journey, and will see us through to completion. As the world's largest predominantly lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender congregation, Cathedral of Hope UCC stands with every gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning person who has worn their uniform proudly and served our nation dutifully, even while unable to receive the full freedom that they were protecting. In our 41 years of ministry, we have seen countless veterans proudly wear their uniforms in our sanctuary, and we are delighted to see that legacy of our congregation continue without fear and intimidation. This is a day of celebration and joy. We have seen the realm of God move closer to the earth, and for that I give God thanks.

While we thank God for our military, we also recognize that tomorrow is the International Day of Prayer for Peace, and as a people of peace, we continue to pray that peace will prevail on this earth. I invite you to join us in participating in this global effort through your thoughts and prayers for peace.

Many Blessings,




Rev. Dr. Jo Hudson

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