I've always had a close relationship with Lord. As a teenager, I became very involved with a Baptist church which I enjoyed but was always troubled by all the rules to having a close relationship with God. I should mention that it was becoming apparent at the same time that I was gay. Needless to say, I had been taught in church that this was an abomination. I went for counselling with my pastor who said it was a real struggle and sent me to a meeting of an Exodus type group that preaches through Jesus we can be changed. This did not ring true to my own relationship with a loving God who made me the way I was. I left the church for over 20 years but still considered myself a Christian and walked with the Jesus I knew loved me. About five years ago, the yearning for a community of church members that would accept and love me as I was became powerful. I found the United Church of Christ and now know that God's people can love me too just as Jesus always has loved and comforted me. I have AIDS so having a close relationship with God is important to me to help understand the trials and challenges I sometimes face. It is good to know that not all Christians preach hate. I've found in the gay community that is often how they see the Christian church. I'd like all of them to know that Jesus has no litmus tests for his love. I've found the love and peace of my savior and am so blessed because of it.