I believe that God is beyond our words and surely beyond our genders

David Weiss, theologian, poet, musician, and Wartburg College alumnus, wrote these words at the beginning of his book, "To the Tune of a Welcoming God," published by Wingspan Ministry (2008). For nearly a decade, David's journey of faith has included his passionate exploration of "the place of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender persons in the love of God and the life of the Lutheran church".

His words evoke in me a deep grief. How many times have I taken for granted the voices of those who called for a change from exclusion to inclusion in the church; a change that welcomed me into leadership? His words also evoke for me a great hope. God really is able to call out new life, even in God's people the church.

Wartburg College, in Waverly, Iowa will welcome David on January 26-27, 2010. His preaching, teaching, and hymnody will be shared in a variety of ways while he's on campus. His visit is co-sponsored by Wartburg Campus Ministry and Wartburg College Alliance. For more of David's reflections, check out his November 16th blog posting "When Charity Becomes the Weapon" at The Wild Reed blogspot.