Sep 15 2008
Monte: Andre Masayon Monte
Andre Masayon Monte
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Written (Survey) History
This history was collected via online survey.
What do you like to be called by your friends and family?
Andre
Where were you born?
San Diego, California
Do you have a life partner or spouse?
No
Did you grow up in a church? If yes, which one?
St. Cletus, Gretna, Louisiana
When did you first discover Metropolitan Community Churches?
2002
How did you hear about MCC? Friend, family, advertising, Troy’s book, other?
I was invited by a friend. I actually missed the Sunday I was invited to attend.
Describe your first visit to MCC. Please include the church’s name.
Feeling guilty, I went the following Sunday and showed up when service ended. But I ended up seeing another friend and he introduced me to everyone there. I’ve attended ever since.
How many years have you belonged to a MCC?
About 5 years.
Who preached the sermon that you’ve never forgotten? Do you remember the name of the sermon? Where were you when you heard it?
So many have been blessings and have had meaning for me that I can really pick one.
Who influenced you the most in MCC?
Tom Merrill & Rick Cain, Liz Arceneaux & Zel Angelle.
Describe how this person influenced you.
I think of them as my parents in some respects. From Liz and Zel, it’s the understanding of our parallel spiritualities. For Tom and Rick, it’s about understanding my connections between life and spirituality. All provide a level of unconditional support for me in these areas of my life.
If you attend a MCC now, please give its name.
MCC of Baton Rouge
What do you like best about your local church?
Maintenance of family unity, and that we are just beginning in our growth into diversity, community, and social action.
What do you like best about the movement, ministry and community of MCC?
Our work to include everyone.
What was the moment when you felt most proud to be a member of MCC?
I would have to say now. Due to various outside factors, I feel I’ve stepped into a new level of spirituality where I am trusting my faith in God more than I ever have. And it’s wonderful!
Have you attended a General Conference? If so please tell how many you have attended.
None yet.
What do you like best about General Conferences?
No Response
What do you remember about the Inclusive (Including) Language Project? Or your first encounter with Inclusive (Including) language at MCC.
As one that works in and for the education, advocacy, and activism of LGBT issues and our community, I do understand the importance of inclusive language. But my upbringing creates for me a comfort in traditional writings.
What do you remember about the ordination of women and people of color?
Refreshing and historic.
What do you remember about the beginning of ministry to the transgender and intersexed communities?
Refreshing and historic.
What do you remember about the growth of a community of children or a children’s / youth ministry at your MCC?
Slow start but we remain persistent and determined.
What do you remember about MCC ministry during the beginning of the AIDS pandemic and the transition of that movement to where it is today?
I don’t know much about MCC’s role in HIV/AIDS Prevention in the beginning. I am pleased with what we do with the cause now.
What do you remember about our restructuring from Districts/Global Outreach to Regions?
A little confusing at first, but I eventually understood how that move was beneficial to all of us.
Please include any other memory or historical moment that you wish to share.
Generally speaking, coming to my understanding about death have been optimistic because of my MCC.
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