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Rainbow Interfaith Community Mission Statement
We are a group of Tucson interfaith communities united in reaching out to and affirming lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people. Our purpose is to provide broad and diverse spiritual choices in a non-political and non-partisan manner to LGBT individuals in their search for spiritual fulfillment. We affirm LGBT people by accepting their sexuality and not seeking to change it and work to overcome the alienation created by past religious condemnation and rejection.
Rainbow Interfaith Community Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Rainbow Interfaith Community (RIC) a political advocacy group?
No. Our mission is to offer lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals a broad spectrum of spiritual choice, and political advocacy could make some welcoming communities uneasy about listing themselves with us or prevent them from doing so. This, however, does not prevent individual communities or their members from working together outside the purview of the RIC to further LGBT rights.
What is the principal criterion for being listed with the RIC in its brochure and on its website?
The principal criterion for being listed with RIC is providing a spiritual environment that affirms LGBT individuals by respecting their sexuality and loving relationships.
What are the obligations of affiliating with the RIC?
The RIC has no established obligations for those communities listed with it, although it is beneficial for a community to establish a RIC contact person. The RIC holds meetings every few months about its mission and activities, and we welcome the participation and perspectives of all communities on what we do. This is not required, however.
Is there a cost or financial obligation for being listed with the RIC?
No, although some spiritual communities donate small amounts (tens of dollars) to cover the cost of producing brochures and miscellaneous expenses.
Must a congregation have a large visible or vocal LGBT constituency to be listed with the RIC?
No. Having an identifiable group of LGBT members may make other LGBT individuals more comfortable, but a community’s openness as a whole to LGBT people is what is most important.
Must a congregation perform gay unions to be listed with the RIC?
No. This is something to be determined by each congregation. It is important, however, to recognize and respect the importance of committed LGBT relationships and to support them, and communities should decide how best to do this within the guidelines of their faith.
Must our congregation support gay civil marriage to be listed with the RIC?
No. Gay civil marriage is a complex political, cultural, social and religious issue. Each spiritual community must determine its own position on this, although we hope communities can see its potential value and importance.
Our religion/denomination/sect does not allow openly gay clergy. Can we still be affiliated with the RIC?
Yes. Some denominations do not allow ordination of gay clergy even though an individual congregation may be supportive. In such situations a congregation may be compelled to honor the policy of its denomination as a whole, and we would not want to exclude potentially affirming and welcoming communities because of this.
