Affirmation: Gay & Lesbian Mormons

Scott MacKay's Christmas Message

Scott MacKay, Darren Holman, & Olin Thomas

Dear Affirmation,

While serving as Executive Director I have looked forward each year to writing a brief Holiday Greeting for Affinity. December is my favorite time of year, although it hasn't always been. I remember only too well the years when the holidays were a very strong reminder of the rejection I felt as a divorced, gay, Mormon, father, and I dreaded their coming… refusing to decorate even in the smallest way.

Fortunately, as the result of the efforts of many friends (especially, Affirmation friends), and my own will to survive--I am now completely and absolutely content with who I am…..thrilled, in fact, to be out and proud and cleansed of deceit. One of the Christmas gifts I give myself each year is a promise that I will never go back into my closet of shame nor give others the power to control me nor the power to make me believe I am unloved by God... (really, the impudence!)

A big thanks to all the wonderful folks who help make Affirmation so wonderful…. especially my Assistants for 2002, James Kent (who also served as Affinity Editor) Tia Owen and Hugo Salinas (who also served as Director of the Chapter-At-Large and Coordinator of International Outreach). A big thanks to our Financial and Records Director, Alan Blodgett, and the Las Vegas Conference team (headed by Michael Lambert and Ricky Gilbert) and Paul Mortensen as Correspondence Secretary who kept the organization ticking along quite nicely this past year. Many other folks help in so many ways both nationally and most importantly, locally. Thanks to everyone!

Henry Miller (left) with partner Rick Fernández

I would be remiss if I didn't pay a special thanks to the many years of hard work put forth by Henry Miller as he magically created one of the web's finest sites. I'm certain none of us knows the full extent and immense impact his devoted work has had on the lives, worldwide, of our people… many of whom visit the site regularly for information, comfort, and self-validation. Each of you should spend some time reading the posts listed on the Guest book--It will be an eye opener. After many years of service Henry has earned a well-deserved rest and Web Site Director activities have been taken over by Hugo Salinas. Henry's counsel and sage advice continue to help guide our ongoing electronic outreach efforts.

Two new Assistants will join Hugo and I this next year and their willingness to serve is so appreciated. A big thanks in advance to Affirmation veterans, Olin Thomas (Senior Executive Assistant ) of Washington D.C. and Darren Holman (Executive Assistant) of Los Angeles.

In 2003 Affirmation Leadership will host two exciting Cornerstone Conferences (regional get-togethers for Affirmation folks) in Portland March 1st and 2nd and in Washington D.C. (for their Pride weekend) June 8th and 9th . This, of course, in addition to the Affirmation Annual conference being held in Salt Lake City scheduled for Columbus Day weekend (October 10th-12th). Watch the website and Affinity for information on these forthcoming events. Join us at any and all of these events!

I look forward to a wonderful year of savoring old and making new friendships. A Happy Holidays to you and yours!

Love,

Scott MacKay,
Executive Director 2002