What does LGBTQIA+ stand for? Why is everyone using the term "queer" now? What exactly does "trans" mean? And what is SOGIE? SOGIE stands for Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression and this SOGIE Training will help us answer the previous questions. These are important questions—specifically important questions for church people to be asking. Regardless of where we sit on the spectrum of affirmation, understanding these terms is important for us as we seek to offer love and care to God's beloved queer children. 

The topic for each of the three training sessions are below. Each class will include an exploration of terms, opportunity to practice using them, and practical application to take back to your church/ministry context.

June 16 Session: What is Queer? An overview

June 23 Session: Exploring Gender Identity and Expression

June 30 Session: Exploring Sexual Orientation/Attraction

This session is led by Rev. Melissa A. Martin. Melissa, a Presbyterian Church (USA) pastor in Hawaii, believes that faith communities can be powerful catalysts for change, particularly in how we treat our land and steward church buildings. In her work with the Community Church of Honolulu, she actively facilitates partnerships between churches and non-profits, helping them leverage their physical resources for greater impact. Her understanding of church as a catalyst for change doesn't  stop there, Melissa also recently received a Louisville Institute grant to develop a theology of divorce, and she's dedicated to exploring the way our faith empowers us to build communities inclusive of all gender identities, sexual orientations, and relationship statuses.

Melissa brings a wealth of experience to her ministry. She's a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary, has worked in higher education, served as a head pastor, and holds a certificate in executive leadership. Outside of her pastoral work, you'll find Melissa as a certified yoga instructor, a novice freediver, and an infrequent painter.