Bishop Flunder on Donnie McClurkin

Beloved,

I watched a clip of Pastor Donnie McClurkin at the COGIC Convocation where he used the words perversion and vampirism in reference to feminine young men and ‘evil’ butch young ladies. He suggested that the church had failed them and not been active enough in helping these young people find deliverance. He ranted against gospel artist and pastor Tonex’ with regard to Tonex’ recent affirmation of his own same gender orientation.

Pastor Donnie knows like I know that Tonex’ is more the ‘rule’ than the exception to the rule. What makes Tonex’ unique is that he told the truth about his sexuality, while not claiming the need to be delivered. I believe that these hateful words come from the need to instill fear of public ridicule in the hearts of those who may be considering coming out and they come from folks who feel they were denied the opportunity to be authentic AND successful in the church.

I am not worried about Tonex’. He will feel the pain of rejection for a time but he will rise up and answer the prophetic call to be a liberator to his generation.  My deep concern is for those young people who are part of the COGIC and for their families who have now been driven deeper into the closet by experiences like this. The closet is a dangerous place, where theological, and physical self-abuse runs rampant.

These young people love the church and feel the only place they can go is underground. I am encouraging these young people to find their voices and not run to the shadows to live in fear like my generation has. Watch the signs, change is possible. God is greater than any denomination and bigger than the narrow theologies that seek to hold us hostage. I am excited about our future and please know that by the Grace of God, there are safe places for us to land.

Bishop Flunder

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Rev. Dr. Yvette Flunder
Presiding Bishop  - The Fellowship

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