How listening to people's stories transforms congregations into truly welcoming spaces On September 17, 2026, Invite Welcome Connect hosted a webinar on storytelling and LGBTQ+ inclusion in the church. Four remarkable panelists—Liz Dyer (Real Mama Bears), Sara Cunningham (Free Mom Hugs), John Pfannes (St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal Church), and Maddy Bishop (Diocese of Kansas)—shared their experiences, insights, and practical guidance for congregations seeking to move from