Many people struggle to reconcile their sexual orientation or gender identity with a faith that taught them that they could not be both queer and Christian. We emphatically believe that is false — you can absolutely be both queer and Christian.
Connecting with the college LGBTQ+ community and allies
People often point to certain verses of the bible as proof that same sex relationships are wrong or that God affirms strict gender norms. These are sometimes referred to as “clobber verses” because of how they are used to hurt LGBTQ+ people.
In reality, Jesus says nothing about homosexuality, nor does the topic even arise anywhere in the four gospels. In fact, there are only a few minor incidences where the bible addresses the issue, and they are often taken out of context or not relevant in modern times.
» Read our rebuttals to the scripture arguments.
Click here to view Pastor Debra’s thoughts on our inclusive theology with resources for the journey.
QueerFaith on Campus (QFoC) is an initiative of Urban Abbey campus ministry. The goal of the project is to help LGBTQ+ college students and allies think about and integrate their faith identity, sexual orientation, and gender identity. All people who identify as, or love and support, LGBTQ+ college students are welcome to become a part of QFoC.
A Note About Our Use of the Word “Queer”
Language changes fast. We acknowledge that many people have experienced this word in a wounding way. Urban Abbey celebrates that people are beginning to reclaim this term, and we stand with them as a sign of affirmation of the progress that we have made.
In Rachel’s own words …
Urban Abbey is more than just a non-profit coffee shop, bookstore, church; it’s a place of safety from a world that often tells people they don’t belong.
The steady support the Urban Abbey has shown towards the LGBTQIA+ community with their QueerFaith Initiative allows me to recommend this space to all of my friends regardless of religious status, sexuality, race, gender, or any other classifier because I am confident that no matter who they are they will be embraced with open arms.
When the folks at Urban Abbey say all people are welcome they don’t just talk the talk, they walk the walk.
The sermons are consistently inspiring as they call us to be as radical against oppression as Jesus was when he flipped the tables in the gospel.
The Urban Abbey actively works against the systemic and prolific oppression present in the Omaha area by supporting grass roots organizations and donating proceeds from their coffee sales. Their commitment to social justice and liberation theology is deeply moving and the people present are truly the salt of the earth.
QueerFaith on Campus regular events
Intergenerational Worship
Every Sunday
9:00 am, 11:00 am | Urban Abbey
Join other colleges students and our intergenerational community as we center ourselves in God and in the community that reflects God's image. Worship is open to all people, of every age, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability, and class. You don't have to be a United Methodist or even Christian to participate.
QueerFaith on Campus Small Group
Every Sunday (during academic school year)
2:00-3:00 pm | Urban Abbey
Join us and other 18+ college students for important conversations about sexual orientation, gender identity, and faith identity. We are proud to be a campus ministry where people are welcome to love themselves, love their LGBTQ+ family and friends, and love our inclusive community.
Our final meeting of the 2023/2024 school year will be Sunday, May 5th at 2:00 pm!
Get in Touch
Have questions about Urban Abbey? Looking for more information on how to get involved? Or simply want a freshly brewed cup of coffee? Our team is here to help!