As a member of a conservative church in Wichita, KS, a young Matthew Vines was steeped in Biblical teachings, some of which condemned gay people as sinful, immoral, and un-Christian. Now in his 20’s, Mr. Vines wants to change the culture of evangelical Christianity that still interpret the Scriptures in such a way that leads to the marginalization of LGBT individuals.

Mr. Vines was propelled into the spotlight after a lecture of his in which he debunks myths about LGBT people and the Bible, went viral on YouTube. His internet celebrity inspired him to found an organization called “The Reformation Project”, whose mission is “to training LGBT Christians and their allies to reform church teaching on sexual orientation and gender identity through the teaching of the Bible.” “The Reformation Project” is important because it engages in the LGBT – Christian dialogue from both points of view. It is able to navigate a chasm, once thought impassable, thorough dialogue and a keen understanding of theological nuances.

Mr. Vine’s first training session was held in Kansas on September 18 – 21. It was covered by the Associated Press and the Christian Post, among other outlets.

If you want to learn more about his work, check out the Reformation Project website and the many blog posts by GLAAD highlighting Mr. Vines' story and work.