| Steen: Continue...to do the will of the Lord By Joretta Purdue
United Methodist News Service On June 28, the Rev. Rebecca A. Steen surrendered her clergy credentials and withdrew her membership from the United Methodist Church. Steen, who is a transgender person, served churches in three Maryland communities during a 17-year career as the Rev. Richard Zamostny. Following her June 28 announcement to Baltimore-Washington Conference leaders, Steen spoke with the United Methodist News Service. There has been a parting of the ways because I dont think the church is ready for me, and Im sad to say that, Steen said. I will continue to seek to do the will of the Lord and to be active in ministry wherever God leads me. Steen, 47, a parent and grandparent, said that prior to her withdrawal she realized the issue was going to become extremely divisive for the church, her family and herself. Thats why she decided to stop the process. I dont think it would be a good thing for anyone, to make this a topic of heated debate and controversy, she remarked. She expressed her appreciation to the many clergy and laity that supported her. At the same time she acknowledged that many others have opposed a transgender clergyperson. My theology is one that says you need to love everyone. If its not an act of grace, if its not an act of love, then you shouldnt do it, Steen said. She indicated that she is going to take some time to explore other faith communities and to see how I may be able to continue to serve the Lord in whichever faith community I am accepted. Steen stressed that she is not angry or bitter and said she will continue to pray for the United Methodist Church. I am concerned about the family of God. The family of Jesus Christ extends to all people not to a specific group, she said. I am going to go on preaching and go on loving in the name of Jesus Christ wherever Im called. | 
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