A Journey of Courage, Compassion, and Commitment
Mary & Dean DeRidder
Our church’s story of inclusion has been shaped over decades by faithful leadership, courageous voices, and a community willing to grow—even when the path was not easy.
The journey began in 1991, when a spirit of support for LGBTQ individuals was first openly expressed during the ministry of Rev. John Ellinger and Rev. Susan Hagans. At the time, this stance came with real cost, as approximately ten families chose to leave the congregation. Yet even in loss, seeds of compassion and conviction were planted.
That commitment continued into 2001 under the leadership of Rev. Bill Dobbs and Associate Rev. Karen Tompkins. During this same period, a significant community resource took root: a local chapter of PFLAG—Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays—was established in Holland. Hosted monthly at Grace Episcopal Church, the group was open to all and quickly became a place of support, learning, and connection.
Led by Mary and Dean Deridder from our own congregation, the gatherings regularly welcomed 25 to 30 participants each month. Several other church members were actively involved, including Lee and Dianna Strebel, Al and Peg Minert, and John and Mary Buttrey. Together, they helped foster a welcoming environment where stories could be shared and understanding could deepen.
Between 2005 and 2019, progress slowed. Concerns about division within the congregation led to a period of hesitation. Yet even in that quieter time, the foundation for future growth remained.
A renewed sense of purpose emerged in 2019 with the arrival of Rev. Brad Bartlemay as lead pastor, alongside Rev. Tania Dozeman and Rev. LuAnne Stanly-Hook. During this transformative period, members of the congregation who identified as LGBTQ—or who had LGBTQ children—were invited to share their personal stories during Sunday services. Week by week, these testimonies brought honesty, vulnerability, and humanity to the forefront of congregational life. One young man even stepped forward to record these stories on video, ensuring they could be shared more widely and remembered as part of this important chapter.
These moments of storytelling changed hearts. They built understanding. And ultimately, they led to action.
Following this period of reflection and growth, the congregation voted at a charge conference to officially become an Open and Affirming church—a decision that passed with strong support. It was a milestone that reflected years of prayer, dialogue, and faithful witness.
This journey reminds us that transformation does not happen overnight. It unfolds through courage, persistence, and a willingness to listen deeply to one another. As we look back, we give thanks for those who spoke, those who stayed, and those who helped lead us toward a more inclusive and loving community.