SEXUALITY & FAITH, A PROGRAM FOR PRIDE
A Collaboration with Persad Center for the 2009 Pittsburgh Pride Week
Held on Wed, June 10, 2009 at the WYEP Community Broadcast Center
67 Bedford Square, Pittsburgh, PA 15203 (South Side)
The season opening event of American Shorts @ WYEP featured an evening of short readings and discussion that examined issues of faith and sexuality in the GLBTQ community.
Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures and WYEP were pleased to welcome special guest, The Reverend Janet Edwards, as the evening's focal point. Rev. Edwards has been an advocate for the inclusion of gays and lesbians in the Presbyterian Church and beyond for many years. Currently the Co-Moderator at More Light Presbyterians and a member of the Taskforce on Ministry with Sexual Minorities, she has also been a member of Religion/Spirituality Working Group of Voices for a New Tomorrow and the Civil Rights Taskforce.
Rev. Edwards commissioned a new translation by Heather Reichgott of the Biblical story of David and Jonathan. This touching story between King David and Saul's son, Jonathan, is believed by some to be the key homosexual relationship in the Bible. Sexuality & Faith showcased this new translation with a reading by a group of diverse actors.
In addition, G. Michael Beigay and Joy H. Royes read selections of fiction and nonfiction alongside Rev. Edwards. Both active in the GLBTQ community, Beigay and Royes offered their own unique perspectives on this profound topic.
A lively Q&A with the readers followed.
The evening closed with the Pittsburgh premiere of Douglas Hunter's documentary The Constant Process. Mormon filmmaker Hunter tells the story of Episcopalian priest Susan Russell who, only after being ordained, came out as a lesbian. This short film is an intimate and touching portrayal of Russell's personal experiences and her very public struggle within the church.
The Deryck Tines Group provided the evening's soundtrack with spirited gospel music.
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