“It’s not safe for you to lead here..”

Where I live, there’s a junior high ministry with hundreds of kids, and it is everything you imagine it to be. Chaos, fun, high energy, weird, deep, hilarious, and safe. Safe for 7th-9th grade students to have fun, learn about Jesus, and be loved for who they are.

I served at this ministry for 3.5 years during my time in college. When I became a teacher, I stepped back from serving as I was already getting my daily dose of children.

Last year, I expressed interest in returning, as I had figured out a better work-life balance. I was talking about having a small group with one of my best friends, and we were thinking about what grade of girls we were going to lead.

These thoughts were cut short by a phone call.

A phone call that shared that the leaders of the church said it wouldn’t be safe for me to lead here…

I’m a grown adult. I can decide for myself if I think a room full of GenZ world changers is a safe enough place for my 24 year old queer self.

Months of no response and no continued conversation, they missed out on an experienced passionate leader ready to love kids where they are at and provide a space for them to learn about Jesus.

But, thanks for looking out for my safety.