In last week’s post recognizing and reflecting on the 15th anniversary of the brutal murder of Matthew Shepard, I promised to create a page of resources devoted to ministry with LGBTQ youth.

You will notice that page in the navigation at the top of this blog site. The direct link is HERE.

The usefulness of this page will directly depend upon YOU, the reader and the active youth minister, continuing to forward news, information, and resources you use in your ministry or that you find compelling.

Along these lines, Drew Helstosky, who coordinates Public Information and Social Media Ministry for St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, was kind enough to send a press release about Invocation and Dance, a free public concert on October 14, 2013 at 7:30 pm at St. Paul’s commemorating the 15th anniversary of Matthew Shepard’s death. The concert is part of The Brooklyn Sounds Concert Series and Choral Chameleon.

Works to be performed include:

• David Conte: Elegy For Matthew (text by John Stirling Walker)
• David Conte: Invocation and Dance (text by Walt Whitman)
• Michael Hennagin: Give Me the Splendid Silent Sun (text by Walt Whitman)

This sounds like a meaningful opportunity to reflect upon the life of one young man and the potentially horrific consequences of violence and discrimination. I am confident other events like this are occurring across the country.

As we approach the anniversary of Matthew’s murder, I encourage you to reflect on your ministry with LGBTQ youth and with all youth in breaking down the barriers we create between ourselves.

And, as you gather resources, please share them here in the comments, on the EpiscoYouth Facebook page, or by emailing me at Bronwyn Clark Skov.