Do you feel uncomfortable around them?

Twice a month, we have a care-giver come over to the house to be with our son, Benjamin, who has Down Syndrome. Her name is Delaina. We deeply appreciate the service that she offers. We are fortunate to have her present with Benjamin while we take time for ourselves.

Delaina is quite comfortable with Benjamin. Jeanne and I do realize that many people may not feel the same way. I believe that this is quite natural for those who have not been exposed to people with special needs.

In Acts, Chapter 10, Peter has a repeated vision. Through this experience, God shows Peter that he is called to extend ministry beyond his fellow Jews. This was a challenge, quite outside his comfort zone, to break bread with Gentiles, who were very different.

Here’s what I experienced: I grew up in Port Townsend, Washington – a community where Christian Caucasians were by far the majority.

After graduation, I served in the Coast Guard with many African-Americans, and made new friendships.

Just before I was honorably discharged I flew to England and visited my pen pal. She was Islamic. I ate wonderful meals, stayed with their family overnight, and was introduced to their customs. They asked me about Christianity and I learned about their Islamic faith. This reminded me a little bit of the story of St. Patrick who visited the Egyptian sultan.

As part of my seminary experience, for three months, through the Oakland Chinese Community Council, I was part of a program that helped teach English to a group of Asian teenagers.

While in seminary, one of our neighbors was a nice Orthodox Jewish lady. We had many talks.

One of my neighbors here in Moses Lake is a very kind Latino person. We share produce from our gardens.

Over the years, I have served in parishes where a number of members were gay. Most welcomed them, but not all, which made me sad. Yet they continued to worship.

We had lunch with our daughter in Federal Way. She invited her transgender friend and his partner. At first this made me quite uneasy, but then we got to know each other.

I realize that this is a controversial topic and may make some people feel uncomfortable. I guess it depends upon which of the aforementioned is being referenced? Was it that way for Peter?

Walter is pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church and has served as parish pastor for more than 25 years.

Rev. Walter Klockers