Conversations about LGBTQ issues can be challenging within religious contexts. Negotiating these uncharted waters successfully requires wisdom and sensitivity.
Few understand the specific nuances and complexities of the LGBTQ community, sexuality and/or Christian beliefs and culture; particularly the interaction of these two.
Christian organisations. leaders, churches and denominations seeking to move to a place of welcoming LGBTQ people need assistance to ensure the dialogue is not high-jacked by conservatives and polarisation is minimised within the church, denomination or organisation.
Safe and respectful spaces need to be created to accommodate all people as we embark on this journey together.
For many years, the founder of ABBI, Anthony Venn-Brown, was a pastor, and then became a popular preacher in Australia’s mega-churches. He also founded Youth Alive (NSW) and was the founder/director of a national evangelistic ministry.
Of recent times he has become one of Australia’s respected LGBTQ community leaders and recognised numerous times for his work in the faith/sexuality space. Having been an integral part of these two often separate worlds has given Anthony unique insights.
You’ll find his knowledge, expertise and approach invaluable.
Areas of consultancy include:
Depending on where you are on this journey as an individual, church, denomination or organisation, it is important to first assess the specific needs of your situation and then custom design the program that will be of optimum benefit.
You decide which levels you’d like us to work with and how. Agreed levels of privacy and confidentiality are always maintained.
What have past clients said about Anthony & ABBI?
Chad Nico Hiu (He/Him/His) Director, Diversity & Inclusion, YMCA OF THE USA
‘Anthony is one of the most effective, compassionate and strategic facilitators in the world around conversations related to faith, diversity, equity and inclusion – especially related to LGBTQ identifies individuals and communities.
He was able to lay a foundation of safety, non-judgement and empathy at a table filled with YMCA leaders from around the world on one of the most challenging topics our global movement faces.
This made possible an historic step forward towards inclusion for all across the World YMCA movement.’