“Will we be accepted in your congregation?” This question came from an e-mail sent to the church office. The e-mail read as follows:

“My partner and I are gay. We believe what the Bible says about homosexuality. We are both sick and not doing well. We want to find a church . . . .”

My mind searched the faces and hearts of those who worship week by week, “Will people accept homosexuals?” My immediate response was, “Yes, they will!”

Then my memory sensed a measure of discomfort. I remember three straight guys teasing each other about being gay. I recall cringing at the time, but not saying anything.

Without minimizing their prejudicial behavior I was convinced they would be accepting of all people. Their casual humor, however, would be considered caustic by others. I would talk to them.

I responded to their e-mail assuring them of our acceptance.

Sunday came, but Dylan did not. I e-mailed him again trying to be reassuring-- hoping he would find my second correspondence inviting.

Next Sunday Dylan walked in–tentative, but personable. As expected, church people warmly greeted him. I observed his relaxed demeanor overtaking his tense uncertainty. Soon he was laughing and visiting with a small group who had gathered around him.

The following week he brought his partner Brian. The previous week’s experience was repeated. Dylan and Brian seemed sufficiently at ease to make our church their church home.

Dylan seemed more comfortable and his attendance became regular. Within a few weeks he accepted the Lord as Savior. Dylan’s sickness kept them away from church more often. Brian’s attendance was sporadic. As a nurse he worked many weekends. His interest in the Lord and the church appeared less intense than what we had hoped. In fact he was troubled when Dylan came into a saving relationship with Christ. Of course, Dylan knew the nature of the relationship needed to change. Brian had not bargained for this altered behavior and felt rejected.

Together they came to talk to me wanting counsel. The discussion focused on deciding how much affection could be shown without sinning. The two were worlds apart in their motivation. Brian wanted a sustained sexual relationship. Dylan sought to please God and to live in faithfulness. Brian felt betrayed. Dylan torn between two loves. I admired their commitment to each other and experienced the painful tearing of their hearts.

A year and a half later Brian and Dylan moved about 20 miles away from church. They rarely attended our congregation. Dylan’s sickness caused increased absenteeism at work. He went through three jobs. Finances became a real issue for them. The church helped them with utilities. They thanked us profusely.

One day Brian called to tell us of Dylan’s death. We were shocked and saddened. Three weeks later Brian took his life with an overdose. We were horrified. With a heavy heart, I looked back on the years we had known them. I wondered how we could have better ministered to them. No insight came to mind. I felt a sense of gratitude that the people of God had loved, accepted and included these two men. This church that serve the purposes of God.