Good Shepherd Award

The Good Shepherd Award, which is awarded by The Shepherd Initiative's board of directors, was presented on May 25, 2003 to our beloved pastor, friend, and mentor-in-Christ, Rev. Glenn Schwerdtfeger. The award was established to recognize individuals, groups and/or organizations that have made significant contributions to "building bridges of understanding" between the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community and the Christian community. Pastor Glenn received the award in recognition of his bold and courageous leadership in the area of gay affirmation and inclusion." Pastor Glenn officially took a stand for the GLBT community when he supported a proposal to extend healthcare benefits to domestic partners of Columbus City employees. His signature appeared on a half page ad "Here We Stand" in the Aug 12, 1999 edition of the Columbus Dispatch. This act of GLBT support led to an intense and volatile debate about homosexuality within our small, campus-area congregation. The unity of the congregation was severely tested but Pastor Glenn stood on his principles and his firm belief that "GLBT inclusion is the right thing to do." As a result of Pastor Glenn's strong leadership, most of the members of Maynard Avenue United Methodist Church rallied behind him and the congregation is now "open and affirming."

Praise God for leading Pastor Glenn to this church and this congregation. We thank you, Pastor Glenn, for your excellent leadership, your humbleness, your support, and your courage. We love you Pastor Glenn!