Where in the Christian text does Jesus say that people are “filth”? Senator Tom Woods’ comments with regards to the 2SLGBTQIA community are atrocious and most certainly do not live within any doctrine of the Christianity he professes. Senator Woods called upon Christian morality as justification for his discrimination and hatred, and we at the Oklahoma Faith Network call upon him to revisit his faith, as his current path is incongruent with Christianity in any form. Comments such as these are dangerous, and have led to the deaths and harassment of children and adults across this country. The idea that morality could ever align with hatred is offensive, false, and egregious. Morality, within the context of the senator’s professed faith, teaches kindness and love of neighbor. Therefore, we name these comments for what they are, incongruent with any faith tradition, especially Christianity.
In prayerful memory of Nex Benedict
The Oklahoma Faith Network joins the many who find themselves shattered by the news of the death of 16-year-old Nex Benedict in Owasso, OK. Nex’s death shows us the horrific effects of hate-filled rhetoric which prioritizes talking points over love, and false outrage over understanding. Nex’s life was taken from their family and community abruptly and violently, and OFN stands firm in our stance that no person should experience discrimination for living authentically, let alone lose their life. We cannot allow misguided rhetoric and blame to circulate in the name of veiled morality, and we will continue to stand alongside members of our communities in the truest name of love. To Nex’s family and loved ones, to all families with trans and nonbinary youth, and to the wider Oklahoma queer community, we send our heartfelt and deepest support for the journey ahead.
Interfaith Impact Lunch
Space is very limited for this special event, put together by a beautiful collaborative of organizations. There will be prayers from the interfaith community, a panel discussion on the separation of church and state, and opportunity for collective action. Tickets are only $10, and all proceeds from individual reservations will be donated to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. Grab your spot ASAP here.
Oklahoma is lucky to be home to a diverse faith population, many of whom know and work closely for religious understanding and cooperation in our state. This year, on February 20, 2024 these organizations will unite to host the Interfaith Impact Lunch at the First Americans Museum in Oklahoma City.
Join our wonderful hosts and sponsors for an afternoon of community and collective action with interfaith partners around the legislative session. The luncheon program will consist of a panel discussion around the separation of church and state, an issue that is vital to maintaining religious freedom in our state and country.
Advance registration is required. Lunch will be provided. Tickets start at $10*. Space is limited, so register now!
*This fee reserves your spot at the event. Ticket proceeds will be donated to the Regional Food Bank after the event.
Organizations interested in sponsorship can contact info@okfaith.org for more details.
Security will be on site for this event.
Deep gratitude to our sponsors for making this event accessible:
Phillips Theological Seminary
Respect Diversity Foundation
Free Mental Health First Aid Training Offered
In order to better serve the needs of Oklahomans, the Oklahoma Faith Network is hosting a free Mental Health First Aid Training, courtesy of the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. Mental Health First Aid is a public education program that introduces participants to risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems, builds understanding of their impact and overviews appropriate supports. This 8-hour course uses role-playing and simulations to demonstrate how to offer initial help in a mental health crisis and connect people to the appropriate professional, peer, social and self-help care. The program also teaches common risk factors and warning signs of specific illnesses like anxiety, depression, substance use, bipolar disorder, eating disorders and schizophrenia.
