As a native of Chautauqua County who has returned to live here, I was disappointed and concerned to learn about the seven local United Methodist churches leaving the denomination over LGBTQ+ equality (“Disaffliation Begins for Some Methodist Churches”, June 17th, 2023). I have had direct experience with some of the churches who are disassociating, including two different local UMC churches where my mother’s and nephew’s funerals were held.

I am the founder and Board Chairman of Rural Minds, a nationwide not-for-profit organization based in Mayville where I now live. This organization was founded 20 months ago following my nephew’s suicide due to mental illness. He was born and raised in Chautauqua County and tragically died here at age 28. Our organization advocates for the 46 million Americans like my late nephew who live in rural America. Our mission is to help lessen and eventually eliminate the stigma, suffering and silence due to mental illness that still permeates small towns, farms and ranches, mining communities and fishing villages across this country.

The incidence of mental illness, substance use disorder and suicide ideation is already much greater in rural areas than in urban and suburban areas. Suicide rates are 65% higher in rural areas. This incidence is even higher amongst the LGBTQ+ community in rural areas due to long-standing prejudice, isolation and loneliness.

The church plays a critical role in rural areas like Chautauqua County, and it should be a safe people for young and old alike who may be struggling with many different issues, including gender orientation. The actions by these seven churches who are disassociating will not only disenfranchise our community, but could potentially cause harm to our physical and mental well-being.

Communities of faith, regardless of dogma or denomination, have an obligation and responsibility to help and protect all members of a given community, including those of us who identify as LGBTQ+. The action being taken by these seven local United Methodist denominations is diametrically opposed to the teaching of Jesus, and is one of the many reasons that so many young people in particular are leaving organized religion. When I read what the vote counts were at three of the identified local churches who are leaving over LGBTQ+ rights, it spoke volumes about what is happening in these congregations since it was decided by total congregational memberships totaling seven members, 10 members, and 12 members. There are already a number of long-abandoned churches in this area, and several of them are former United Methodist houses of worship. I suspect that this growing divide will accelerate these vacancies in the future.

For those of us who have struggled during our entire lives for acceptance, inclusion and equality, please know that there are many other alternatives to these disassociating churches in Chautauqua County. I am fortunate that I have found an accepting and loving home at Hurlbut Church, a United Methodist Church in Chautauqua. There are other similar faith communities in our area that also welcome, encourage and advocate for those of us in the LGBTQ+ community, so please don’t be discouraged.

There is a place for you at the table where you will find belonging, grace and community.

Jeff Winton is the founder and chairman of Rural Minds, a nonprofit organization that aims to end the suffering, silence and stigma surrounding mental illness in rural America. He is also the founder and owner of Wall Street Dairy, LLC — a working dairy farm in Chautauqua County, New York — and a member of a multigenerational farm family.