We decided to see what interest there is in a new church geared toward contemporary, informal (setting), at the same time, with the same message.

When the church has a position, it tends to be categorical. Lawmakers want their interest groups to take half a loaf and the church isn't eager to bargain. They want it their way.

Today there are gays and lesbians in church groups outside of my own denomination, but there are tens of thousands who want to be a part of the Universal Fellow ship of Metropolitan Community Churches. We continue to expand and grow and carry the good news that Jesus died for our sins, not our sexuality.

You have to spend a lot of time at church prior to playing in the Spectrum. There's a lot of praying that needs to take place, and the basketball gods have to be with you.

I liked the fact that she spoke so clearly about her connections to people and her interest in being here. She also talked about students, faculty, staff, and all of us learning from each other and helping one another.

The stratosphere is my church.