Epworth United Methodist Church at 37W040 West Highland Avenue, Elgin, Illinois.

This "church" is an abomination before God. To intentionally and ignorantly treat a young leader, a young man, who's only goal is to become a leader and positive influence upon others....by condoning his REMOVAL and "separation" from Scouting, by having him sleep in a separate tent, and basically behave as a SECOND CLASS citizen is DIRECTLY opposed to the teachings of Christ.

I wonder, if Christ were a Scout, would He have a problem or concern sleeping in the same tent as Steven Palewski? I wouldn't, and nor would anyone I am friends with. Steven is a gay teen, not a PREDATOR. And his sexuality is such a SMALL part of his identity, when compared to his efforts to be a leader, have a meaningful existence, create a world of peace and prosperity for those in his community, and his vocalization for those injured by FELLOW Scouts who have used derogatory terms relating to sexual orientation. THOSE Scouts should be removed, and "separated", not Steven...for THEY are the ones in the wrong.

I am immediately DISCONTINUING my financial aid, donations, and MEMBERSHIP from the United Methodist Church, for your BLATANT support of BIGOTRY, degradation, and abuse of Christian Theology as it relates to Mr. Palewski. Your Church, who REPRESENTS GOD to the mass public, Christians who are hurting, and needing the love of Christ, is what I would classify as an ABOMINATION in God's eyes....for WHERE IS YOUR LOVE? And ANY Christian worth his weight knows that THE word of God, his every message, His every essence, is ABOUT Love and how we LOVE others.

I find no connection to the actions your church has supported with Scouting Group 128 to exemplify "love" of God, community, or person in ANY faction, or manner. Consider the UMC Rolls to have four less members effectively....myself, and family. For I am ASHAMED to call myself a Methodist when someone is treated the way Steven has been in a building I consider sacred and holy!