Religion is an intimidating topic, one that's seemingly full of contradictions. Humans have been seeking comfort in religion for thousands of years, yet religious conflict has led to innumerable wars.
Members of a community can find a sense of belonging within a congregation, and yet religion can just as divisive as it is inclusive.
The pastor of an Oregon church is on a mission to be more inclusive, starting with the big sign out front.
The messaging on Pastor Adam's signs is an interesting mix between old-school theology that spreads a welcoming message, and applying those virtues to topical issues like immigration and vaccines.
"I came to the Clackamas United Church of Christ about a year and a half ago and realized that we needed to get our message out into the neighborhood," he told Bored Panda.
"People saw our building, but didn't know what our values were. So we started a fundraiser for the sign and I started posting these messages."
"People began to stop as they drove by to thank me for the messages," he added. "But I didn't know it would have an online impact, too."
Adam goes on to say that the simple message of the Gospel is that everyone, without exception, is loved. "The sin is when we start treating certain people and groups as if they are not loved," he explained.
This sign gives props to Portland Trail Blazers star guard Damian Lillard for getting vaccinated. In an era of vaccine misinformation and hesitancy, showcasing public figures who've gotten the jab might nudge a vaccine-hesitant person to do likewise.
I'm not religious, but I do know that any Bible-based pretext for homophobia is flimsy. That said, I had no idea the Bible literally had a verse where two men kissed.
"Then [David and Jonathan] kissed each other and wept together—but David wept the most."
Pastor Adam wears his beliefs on his sleeve, which may turn off some people with different political opinions. Still, there's something deeply admirable about a church that's willing to stand up for the most vulnerable members of society.
"I decided that we needed to be bold with our message of love and inclusion, especially those who are marginalized, especially by religion," he said. "My goal is to be part of a larger movement that is reframing or redefining Christianity so that it's based on God's love for all people, but especially those who are marginalized."
Religion isn't necessarily about bringing people together. It's often used as a wedge to divide. Here, Adam calls out Christians who use their platform to preach divisiveness and violence.
"One guy stopped as I was changing the sign and told me I didn't understand the Bible," he said. "But that's been most of the criticism. Everyone else honks or says great job. It's been very supportive."
If I drove past this church every day, I'd find it hard not to smile after seeing their sign. But we want to know what you think. Should more churches adopt Adam's messaging? Let us know in the comments!
