This is a paid release.
OWENSBORO, KY February 2, 2025 – When Unity Fellowship’s Executive Committee introduced a “Declaration of Sanctuary” to its congregation, the proposal passed unanimously. “A lot of folks are afraid right now,” said Pastor Bob Coons, “and the threat is real. People in our society who are already marginalized are being vilified and targeted. The immigrant and trans communities are particularly vulnerable and the recent proclamation recognizing only two genders as official US policy seeks to erase the entire trans population.”
One congregant observed, “it seems like a no-brainer to me. It’s just who we are, who we’ve always been.” Declaring itself to be a sanctuary congregation is in keeping with the church’s DNA. Unity Fellowship has been welcoming and affirming of LGBTQ+ from its inception. Associate Pastor, Gator Lone Wolf, explained, “The overwhelming theme of scripture and Christ’s witness is to love and protect the marginalized. Unity Fellowship is living out that inclusive love by becoming a Sanctuary Congregation.”
The church acknowledges that this move “is an intentional act of resistance to unjust policies that bring harm to immigrants, refugees, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people of color.” It is the church’s desire that its stance will bring a sense of hope to those who feel threatened. Trans church member and worship leader, Chrissy Bray Cotton, exclaimed after the vote, “You have no idea how much comfort just knowing that Unity is doing this has given me… A peace of mind.”
