Progressive spiritual communities (LGBTQ) with teen/tween folks (Minneapolis, Edina: school, moving to)

[considering]

We are likely to be moving to the Twin Cities in the next 2-6 months and considering attending spiritual services for the first time in many years.

One of us is an agnostic quaker who grew up as a Christian Scientist, the other a christian quaker who grew up Buddhist. Our child (12 yo), increasingly, is interested in attending either quaker meeting or church. Though this has not been a high priority, I do think our child might find exploring spirituality comforting/valuable and having a way outside of the pressures of school to connect to other young people could also be positive.

We'd be looking for spaces/places where gender equality is valued (meaning people of all genders can hold leadership positions) and places where there are other LGBTQ/transracial families. It does not have to be everyone or even dominant, but we would prefer to not be alone.

More importantly, places where there is an active culture of teens and/or tweens who have some social connection/learning.

Bonus points for engagement with social justice work, music programs.

Does this sounds like communes you know?

[MichelleLC]

We have just moved here and are seeking
Out the same. A very interesting community I
Have found is at Edina Community Lutheran
In Edina. Incredible community and inclusion
Of LGBT families. Very active and engaged
Youth/teen programs.

[StPaulGal]

I can't believe I find myself answering the second church question in two days.

I highly recommend you to check out Prospect Park United Methodist Church in Minneapolis. A friend and former roommate of mine grew up in that church, and even now as a self-described atheist she still attends a number of church events. It's kind of a breakaway entity--the pastor is an out lesbian, and I'm pretty sure that's not something the Methodist church at large allows. The youth program and music program were two of the things that really appealed to my friend as a teen. They also really emphasize the social justice mission part of Christianity. I have never attended services there (or anywhere else in over a decade), but I have gone to some events with my roommate and I think the place could be a perfect fit for what you are seeking.

Also, I think it's worth noting that the pastor and others at the church are aware that my friend is no longer a believer, and they are affirming of that as well. I think this particular church would be a really pleasant and easy place to go as someone who may not have the same religious background as other kids who grew up rooted in a particular strong faith tradition.