‘Opportunity for conversations’
Art evokes a response and that is never more evident than with “Forever Marilyn” in Latham Park. There seems to be a steady flow of visitors with cameras, eager to have the supersized statue behind them. Comments abound in newspapers and social media. Everyone has an opinion about Marilyn, including what our church behind her thinks. First Congregational Church of Stamford has become the unexpected focus of a lot of attention since Forever Marilyn appeared. So many people are speaking for us. We think it’s time to speak for ourselves.
Art evokes a response and the members of FCC have all kinds of responses, just like the rest of the city and beyond. FCC has been in Stamford since 1641 so we’ve managed differences of opinion for a long time. But as a church community we see a bigger picture. We see an opportunity to meet many new people who don’t usually visit Latham Park.
We also see opportunity for conversations. We’re always looking for a chance to dialogue. For example, two years ago, following the Pulse Nightclub shooting, we hosted a conversation that brought together senators, congressmen, and the mayor with the Muslim and LGBTQ community. For several years now, we have hosted the Homeless Memorial gathering that brings together homeless and formerly homeless men and women with service providers from all over Stamford. And every Thursday, we open our Thrift Shop doors, where people gather for shopping and an experience of community. Each and every Sunday morning we engage in discussions about how to practice our mission to do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with God in response to the issues of our time.
“Forever Marilyn” offers us new ways to connect with the community around topics that go beyond the movie that made this pose so famous. “Forever Marilyn” has meaning for current concerns such as how women’s bodies are represented in art, depression that leads to suicide and the #metoo movement.
This Sunday, June 17, at 10:15 a.m., First Congregational Church will host the Second Annual Pride and Joy in Latham Park with a number of congregations and community organizations supporting LGBTQ pride. Marilyn, an icon of the gay community, will be with us, amplifying our message of love and inclusion. Hope to see you there!