11 Comments
Feb 16, 2023Liked by Mary Swander

I grew up near the Iowa Mennonite High School with many Mennonite and Amish relatives close by. It is so encouraging to learn of this change in the Mennonite church. Thanks for sharing Aiden's story, Mary!

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Feb 10, 2023Liked by Mary Swander

What a lovely, heart-warming piece. I felt honored to be able to read it. Thank you.

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Feb 10, 2023Liked by Mary Swander

A remarkable piece, Aidan! Thank you for sharing. Your maturity and grace through this process has been admirable. Thanks for sticking with us and helping us move forward.

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Feb 9, 2023Liked by Mary Swander

Thank you for sharing your story, Aiden. I am so inspired by your work and the grace shown by the leadership in Mennonite church to take a giant step toward embracing the idea of “everyone is welcome”.

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Feb 9, 2023Liked by Mary Swander

Great job Aiden.

You are brave and inspiring!!!!!

Your thoughts give me hope!

Thanks for sharing!

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Such an important essay and critical voice! Thank you for sharing, Aiden.

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Thank you for this insightful essay. How is it that our state legislature can be pushing anti-LGBTQ+ bills that harm all Iowans? They should learn from Alan.

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author

Thanks, Denise and Suzanna, for your support of this important new voice. And thanks to Jane for the connection to Aidan Yoder, who is enlightening us all.

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At 62 years of age, I hope to one day grow up to be like Mr. Yoder. Aidan's faith and commitment to put his faith to action is reassuring and inspiring.

Best wishes to you Aidan on your continued studies at EMU - the home of the Zehr Institute for Restorative Justice.

In the meantime, we will do what we can to return Iowa to a loving and welcoming space it can be.

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