The Union Gospel Mission is a Christian ministry committed to caring for Seattle’s homeless population. For 85 years this organization has helped struggling people get back on their feet –all in the name of Jesus Christ. They provide a variety of services ranging from a dental office, homeless shelter, work support, and a legal clinic. Recently, a man in a same-sex relationship applied to become a staff attorney with their legal division.

Because Union Gospel Mission is a Christian organization committed to remaining obedient to the Bible, all employees are required to abide by a code of ethics that is consistent with the Bible. This man’s homosexual lifestyle was not consistent with what the Bible teaches about sex and so he was not interviewed for the job. Now, this individual, Matthew Woods, is suing the Union Gospel Mission for discrimination.

This is a homeless ministry committed to serving the poorest in Seattle and yet this man, Matthew Woods, wants to take them down because they are also committed to the Bible. Sign this petition to the King County Superior Court asking them to respect the ability of the Union Gospel Mission to function as a Christian ministry. Also, during this holiday season, consider donating to the Union Gospel Mission. Court costs can be extremely expensive.

The Employee Code of Conduct states that “All staff members are expected to live by a Biblical moral code that excludes extramarital affairs, sex outside of marriage, homosexual behavior, drunkenness, illegal behavior, use of illegal drugs, and any activity that would have an appearance of evil.”

Jeff Lilley, Union Gospel Mission president and licensed minister stated in an interview with the Seattle Times, that “we hire people passionate about the Bible. We ask they live lifestyles that are consistent with biblical values.”

The website for the Union Gospel Mission states:

“Seattle's Union Gospel Mission is a passionate community of people who follow Christ in his relentless, redeeming love for all people. Our mission is to serve, rescue, and transform those in greatest need through the grace of Jesus Christ.

Relationship is key in all we do. By providing 24/7, 360-degree support services for homeless people in King County, we seek to be a consistent friend to those who are isolated and in need.

We go where people live, listen to their stories, and regularly connect with each person to provide emergency care and invite them into our recovery programs.

Our goal is to inspire hope, bring healing, and point people to a new life through Jesus Christ.”

The Union Gospel Mission is striving to live out the Gospel by caring for the homeless in Seattle. We should stand alongside them and support them during this legal battle. Please sign the petition. And also considering giving or volunteering with the Union Gospel Mission this Holiday Season. Let’s show Seattle that Christians are committed to everything that the Bible teaches –to living morally and also to care for the least of these.

Further Resources:

https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/lawyer-who-wanted-to-work-at-union-gospel-mission-sues-after-it-rejected-him-for-being-bisexual/