Lynn Lampman
Photos
Stole Text
REV. LYNN LAMPMAN
The Presbyterian Church, USA had been the only spiritual home I had ever known. Yet, it was a place where I was feeling less and less at home. There was continual fighting in the "house" (Presbytery meetings and General Assembly) and then one day, I was locked out of the house -- via an amendment.
Yes, I could have stayed, but who wants to live like that -- continually judged, on the outside of the inner circle, stereotyped and scorned.
So, three years ago I left the PC(USA) and went to the United Church of Christ. When I left the PC(USA), I wept for quite a while. But, in the end I knew the UCC was a right "home" for me. For in the UCC, I am seen as a whole person (not solely as a lesbian). That's all I ever wanted: to be seen as a whole person. The UCC recognizes my gifts for ministry, and I am now serving as a Committee on Ministry chairperson.
In light of all this, I am sending a stole which I have had since I was a seminarian. A stole which I wore for 13 1/2 years while a minister in the PC(USA). It has not gone with me into the UCC. It reminds me of the painful past, not the wonderful present and bright future.
Contribution Story
This stole, a reminder of a "painful past," is also a symbol of a painful reality: the exodus of bright, talented leadership from discriminatory denominations like the Presbyterian Church to the welcoming arms of the United Church of Christ.
Martha Juillerat
Founder, Shower of Stoles Project
2006
Archival Record
Stole Number: 892
Honoree(s): Lynn Lampman
Donor(s): Lynn Lampman
Geography: Norwood, Pennsylvania (USA)
Faith Tradition: Presbyterian Church (USA)
Donation Date: 2002