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CJ Young was born in Guam and grew up in the Methodist Church. She discovered MCC through the recommendation of a friend who, ironically, does not attend any church. CJ cites the peaceful influence of her current pastor, Rev. Cathy Porter, and the sense of feeling welcome and at home in MCC as superlatives in her MCC experience.

Written (Survey) History

This history was collected via online survey.

What do you like to be called by your friends and family?

CJ

 

Where were you born?

Aguna, Guam

 

Do you have a life partner or spouse?

Yes

 

If you have a partner or spouse and feel comfortable doing so, please provide their name below.

Barbara Stanfield

 

If you have a partner or spouse, we would be honored to make note of any anniversary you celebrate. You may enter your anniversary date below.

June 24, 2006

 

Did you grow up in a church? If yes, which one?

Methodist

 

When did you first discover Metropolitan Community Churches?

2005

 

How did you hear about MCC? Friend, family, advertising, Troy’s book, other? Please describe.

A friend (ironically who does not attend any churches) told me about MCC after the last state election. We were both upset with the election and wanted to get involved in a gay friendly church.

 

Describe your first visit to MCC. Please include the church’s name.

I first attended MCC Louisville with Rev. Dee. Everyone was very friendly and introduced themselves. This made me feel like I was right at home.

 

How many years have you belonged to a MCC?

1

 

Who influenced you the most in MCC?

Rev. Cathy Porter

 

Describe how this person influenced you.

She is my current pastor and performed my marriage ceremony to Barbara. She is peaceful. I know she has difficulties and hardships, but she always has this peacefulness about her.

 

If you attend a MCC now, please give its name.

MCC Elizabethtown

 

What do you like best about your local church? 

The time we spend together outside of services. The conversations we have about religion and just about everything.

 

What do you like best about the movement, ministry and community of MCC?

It makes me feel welcome, like I am at home.

 

What was the moment when you felt most proud to be a member of MCC?

Always have been since the beginning.

 

What do you remember about the Inclusive (Including) Language Project? Or your first encounter with Inclusive (Including) language at MCC. 

I remember the heated discussion during a deacon candidate meeting when Inclusive language was introduced. Some people still have problems with all inclusive language.

 

What do you remember about the growth of a community of children or a children’s / youth ministry at your MCC? 
Our program is very new and every week is a learning experience.

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