From: Interfaith Working Group Subject: IWG Des Moines Register Matthew Shepard Date: Wed, 21 Oct 1998 00:41:42 -0400 (EDT) October 20, 1998 The Des Moines Register Box 957 Des Moines, IA 50304 Dear Editors: In the midst of all the stories of hate surrounding Matthew Shepard's murder, it was heartening to read about the Iowans who asked the United Methodist bishops "to support homosexual unions and to teach that acceptance of homosexuality is a legitimate position for United Methodists." Positive change will come when people who support full legal and religious recognition of the equality of sexual minorities and their families stand with those who are systematically oppressed and speak out against violence and discrimination. Sincerely, Barbara Purdom Christopher Purdom Interfaith Working Group Coordinators The above letter went out on IWG letterhead listing 15 congregations and organizations and 59 clergy from 16 religious traditions. If you are in the general Philadelphia area and represent a congregation or religious organization or are clergy, let us know if you want to be added - all faiths are welcome. We will also be happy to help start similar organizations in other areas. -- Interfaith Working Group Religious organizations, congregations iwg@libertynet.org and clergy supporting gay rights, http://www.libertynet.org/iwg/ reproductive freedom, and the 215-235-3050 separation of church and state.