From: communications@pflag.org Date: Fri, 20 Mar 1998 11:32:39 -0600 Subject: PFLAG Press Release Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) March 20, 1998 For Immediate Release Contact: Janice Hughes (202)638-4200 x225 PFLAG Optimistic that Creech Decision Will Pave Way for More Denominations to Reach Out PFLAG Mom Testified at Pastor's Historic Trial Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) is predicting that more denominations will become open and inclusive of gays, lesbians and bisexuals in the wake of the historic decision in the church trial of Rev. Jimmy Creech, the senior pastor who performed a commitment ceremony for a lesbian couple. "It's a beacon of hope that more faith communities will reach out to all people, including gays and lesbians," National PFLAG President Nancy McDonald said. She pointed out that a greater number of families are beginning to ask their church leaders to welcome their gay and lesbian loved ones. One earlier encouraging step, she said, was the U.S. Catholic Bishops' statement last fall urging pastors to support families with gay children. "Moms, dads, grandparents and others increasingly are looking to their pastors and rabbis to show greater sensitivity to the fact that our gay and lesbian kids deserve to be treated with love and respect," said McDonald who heads the 70,000-household national group. PFLAG's Betty Dorr was one of a handful who testified on Creech's behalf at the closed trial in Kearney, Nebraska. A grandmother and parent, Dorr, has a gay son and is a longtime member of the First Methodist pastor's church in Omaha. Under a new initiative, PFLAG members - across various denominations - are taking creative steps to open dialogue with church leaders countrywide. First-person stories from families who have struggled with the issue in their congregations are available in a new PFLAG booklet, Beyond the Bible: Parents, Families & Friends Talk about Religion & Homosexuality. McDonald can be reached at 918-742-8565; Dorr is also available. ### Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) promotes the health and well-being of gay, lesbian and bisexual persons, their families & friends through support, education, and advocacy. PFLAG provides an opportunity for dialogue on sexual orientation, and acts to create a society that is healthy and respectful of human diversity. Serving nearly 70,000 members, PFLAG affiliates are located in 400-plus communities in the U.S. and abroad. 1101 14th Street, NW, Suite 1030, Washington, DC 20005 * (202)638-4200 Fax: (202)638-0243 * E-mail: info@pflag.org * Web: www.pflag.org