When Bishop Carlton Pearson announced that he believes All Souls is the church in Tulsa that is offering "the most inclusive, relevant, honest and meaningful expression in the city" and that he and his family will make All Souls their spiritual home in Tulsa, I was humbled and grateful. For my entire ministry I have been working and praying to create a church that is truly inclusive of all souls.
Until now, New Dimensions and All Souls have been two churches in Tulsa where all of God's children are welcomed and embraced, in love, regardless of their unique differences. Parents have come to discover that our churches never fill children's minds with feelings of guilt, judgment, and shame. Instead, we teach our children that God is Love and that they are beloved and worthy and whole.
At All Souls, our children learn the stories and wisdom of the Bible in fun and engaging ways, and they also gain an appreciation for the beauty and wonder of many of the world's great religions, traditions and cultures. Our goal is to support them in becoming confident, moral, ethical, compassionate and loving adults who sow the seeds of love, inclusion and unity in the world.
Today, New Dimensions members and All Souls Church have an historic opportunity to come together as one family. I hope you will join us on this amazing journey beginning Sept. 7, 2008. Something incredible is stirring in America and right here in Tulsa!
Reverend Marlin Lavanhar, Senior Minister, All Souls Unitarian Church, Tulsa