The promise of joy for LGBTQIA+ people this Advent

Aim

As Christmas approaches we are excited to share The Promise of Joy, to love, encourage & support members of the LGBTQIA+ community in the UK

THIS Crowdfunder appeal is now closed.

If you'd like to donate, set up a regular payment, or organise a fundraiser for the Open Table Network, please visit our Crowdfunder charity profile here. Thank you!

• Launch of the Open Table East Cardiff community, July 2023

'Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.' Luke 2:10

Dear friends,

As Advent approaches, we are excited to launch 'The Promise of Joy', which seeks to love, encourage, and support members of the LGBTQIA+ community here in the UK, through the Open Table Network [OTN].

Like the earliest followers of Jesus, we acknowledge the dark clouds of discrimination and injustice which surround those pushed the margins.

Also, like these earlier followers. we grasp onto the promise of joy shared by the angels. In the spirit of this season, we want to speak out for a just and inclusive love for all people.

• Launch of the Open Table Plymouth community, November 2023

Advent is a time for reflection, preparation, and anticipation.

It is a time when we remember the birth of Christ, who came into the world to bring hope to all, without exception.

This season, we invite you to join us in focusing intentionally on supporting our LGBTQIA+ siblings, who face growing challenges such as:

• Discrimination: LGBTQIA+ individuals often face discrimination. This can lead to unemployment, poverty, ill-health and a lack of access to crucial services. 
• Mental distress: The LGBTQIA+ community experiences higher rates of mental health difficulties.
• Safety: Many LGBTQIA+ individuals live in fear of violence and harassment. Creating safe spaces for them to live and thrive is crucial for their well-being.

Read about how the Open Table Network [OTN] is answering a great need.

• Launch of the Open Table Wirral community, June 2023

What difference does Open Table make?

The benefits provided for LGBTQIA+ people who come to communities in the Open Table Network are immeasurable. When we come together in our communites, we foster a sense of belonging, acceptance, and love.  As Christians, we are called to be collaborators in this journey of love and compassion.

Read more about the impact of belonging to an Open Table community.

How can I help?

Here are three ways you can be a part of this incredible movement:

• Educate Yourself: Take the time to learn about the experiences and challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. Listen to stories, like these from Open Table members.
• Speak Up: Use your voice to advocate for justice and equal rights for all. 
• Support Organizations: Contribute to the Open Table Network.

What can I give?

This Advent, we invite you to make a special gift of £25, or any amount you can, to support The Open Table Network work in 2024. Your contribution will help strengthen our advocacy, create educational resources, and ensure safer spaces of belonging for LGBTQIA+ people. 

We invite you to follow along with a weekly reflection on The Promise of Joy on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter / X, and LinkedIn.

Kieran Bohan
Director, Open Table Network

This project successfully funded on 2nd January 2024