Northaven is committed to full inclusion of all persons. The congregation initiates and participates in programs, activities, and actions to impact this commitment. Its position is clearly reflected through Northaven’s Welcoming Statement: Because we believe that God's love in Jesus Christ has broken down the walls that divide us, we seek to embody that love in our congregation and welcome persons of all races, sexual orientations, and economic circumstances.

Black Tie Dinner Beneficiary

Black Tie Dinner, Inc, is a non profit organization that raises funds for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender supportive organizations serving North Texas through a premier event of empowerment, education and entertainment in partnership with the community. BTD was begun in 1982 by some very dedicated people in the GLBT community of Dallas and has since grown to become the largest GLBT fundraising event of its kind in the nation. During the past 29 years, BTD has distributed over $15 million dollars to its national and local beneficiaries.

Northaven United Methodist Church is very honored to be counted in the group of local beneficiaries. The monies received from BTD have allowed Northaven to develop and host programs that further support social justice and diversity in our community. Through the efforts of many members, the This I Know study guide and course was developed and is now available for distribution to other churches and organizations.  Northaven also hosts Journey: A Coming Out Workshop, Straight Spouse Network, PFLAG, and other groups supporting the GLBT community and their families, friends, spouses, and partners.

This I Know Study Guide and Course

This I Know, published by Northaven, is a six-lesson study for individuals and small groups. This curriculum is a companion to For the Bible Tells Me So, the award-winning documentary on homosexuality and the church. The objectives of the materials are to change the cultural attitudes toward GLBT individuals from ones of indifference, misunderstanding, fear, or hate to love, acceptance, equality, and respect. For those who have often felt rejected by churches, this informative and enlightened resource leads them to Christ’s unconditional love. This I Know is also offered as a course twice each year at Northaven. The curriculum and DVD are available for sale on the website.  Discussion Leader Guide is available here.

Continuing the Journey Spiritual Formation Group

Second Saturdays, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, Room 241

Begins October 13, 2012

Beginning Saturday October 13, Northaven will offer a new monthly spiritual formation group called Continuing the Journey. While open to everyone, the emphasis will be on the spiritual lives of GLBT Christians and their allies, as well as the sometimes unique issues we face as we seek to fully live into the love and grace of God. It is a further extension of the ministry offered in Journey: A Coming Out Workshop. For many years Northaven has sponsored this workshop to assist GLBT folks and their families and friends in learning to lead lives marked by greater openess, honesty, and authenticity. These seven week workshops help participants more easily navigate the choppy waters of the coming out process. After the seven weeks, however, many miss the chance to come together and share their lives, especially the opportunity to further explore their relationship with God. This group provides that opportunity. You do not, however, have to be a graduate of the workshop to participate in Continuing the Journey.

Continuing the Journey will be led by Jane Graner, current co-facilitator (with Jim McBride) of Journey: A Coming Out Workshop. Jane is the Minister of Discipleship at Northgate UMC in Irving and a Certified Spiritual Director. If you have questions or want more information, contact Jane Graner.

Finishing the Journey: Questions and Answers from United Methodists of Conviction

Published by Northaven in 2000, this resource is intended to guide you through the issue of homosexuality and the church. 

Reconciling Ministries Liaison and Programming Team

The Reconciling Ministries liaison and team members serve as the umbrella group for Reconciling Ministries programs and activities, including This I Know and Journey. The liaison meets with the Parents Reconciling Network and Northaven’s Reconciling Task Force which plans for the United Methodist General Conference. The liaison plans for the yearly participation in the Alan Ross (Pride) Parade and other involvements.