Spirit Day was celebrated October 20, and on that day, we saw numerous businesses, celebrities, denominations, and even the White House go purple to show support for LGBT youth and safe schools. However, many worshipping communities held their commemoration until they gathered for weekend services. Now that “Spirit Weekend” is over, we offer you a couple of examples of what congregations did to address bullying in worship. 
The Unitarian Universalist church of Waterville, Maine, got superb local media attention for its worship that lifted up bullying and safe schools. The Morning Sentinel reported on details of the service, from the inclusive hymns to a reading of a Dr. Seuss classic addressing fear of those who are different. The congregation viewed videos and learned more about the “It Gets Better” Project.
The Morning Sentinel went on to describe community-wide initiatives that help secure safe schools. The Unitarian Universalist church is a partner in the Waterville Inclusive Community Project and has opened an LGBT youth center.
Meanwhile, Middle Church in New York City addressed Spirit Day by featuring a congregational favorite: puppets! Middle’s own "Frog & Toad"
tackled the topic of bullying before the whole congregation. During the skit, Senior Minister Jacqui Lewis encouraged the congregation to learn more about Spirit Day efforts at GLAAD.org. The congregation was kind enough to share video of Frog & Toad’s discussion.
Frog & Toad: "On Bullying" from Middle Collegiate Church on Vimeo.
GLAAD is delighted to see worshipping communities incorporating Spirit Day into their weekend services. If you have stories, photos, or video to share, please share it with GLAAD, so we can share your good ideas with others! Keep the spirit going!
