1946 - 1972

In 1946, the Church hired a "partership"...

1973

Coming out in the open at Riverside - Beginning discussions

1974 - 1977

Sexuality sermon, programs, and conference at Riverside

1973

In September 1973, The Riverside Church sponsored educational programs on homosexuality, including the showing of the film A Position of Faith a documentary about Rev. William (Bill) Johnson, the first gay affirmed person ordained in the history of the Christian Church (UCC, 1972). Rev. Eugene Laubach wrote Collegium notes regarding it.

In December 1973, the United Church of Christ (UCC) Gay Caucus, lead by Rev. Bill Johnson, met with The Riverside Church's Senior Minister (1968 to 1978), Rev. Dr. Ernest T. Campbell, about starting a gay caucus at Riverside.

Rev. Campbell had "voiced favorable reaction to a [gay] caucus being formed at The Riverside Church with the suggestion that such a caucus be initiated by Riverside Members."

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About this item:

Rev. Dr. Ernest T. Campbell, Senior Minister of The Riverside Church from 1968 - 1976.