Comments on: Our Story: Eva Sullivan-Knoff

By: Linda Forbes

Linda Forbes — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 23:47:00 +0000

Eva I can’t tell what a gift it is for you to share this story. I spent my whole last semester in seminary studying the issue because I didn’t think we as a denomination where addressing the issue. It was a tough work but meaningful as I spoke with a few gay Covenanters who were brave enough to share. This site is such a breath of fresh air as we work together to love each other and God. Having a gay family member and knowing many homosexuals has helped me learn to be accepting and, I hope, sensitive to others. I will hold you and your family in prayer as you journey this road. Love to you and Benjamin. I have and will always have a tender place in my heart for both your kids and for you and John. I have many resources if you are ever interested- though they are pre-2001. The ELCA worked hard at discerning the issue and did a video piece that “argued” both interpretations of scription. It’s on VHS but if you want to borrow it let me know. Blessings friend.

By: Eva

Eva — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 16:15:16 +0000

In reply to Marti Hindaileh. Thank you Marti. That means more than I can say. Know we love you guys too.

By: Marti Hindaileh

Marti Hindaileh — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 05:13:37 +0000

Dear Eva,
Thank you from the depths of my heart for your honesty and willingness to share this journey. We all need to hear truth spoken without shame or fear. Know this: when I see Benj, I see a dear young man who models Christ in his actions. His gift of friendship to Kaitlin during her time of recovery, countless days spent sitting on the floor next to her bed watching movies, sharing meals, and talking – that is Christ in action. Benj saw Kaitlin’s struggle to lay still for the healing she needed. His sitting on the floor so she could see his face and talk WITH him was the gift Kaitlin needed to stay still and get through her healing process. I love Benj and his servant heart. I love you too my friend. Much love and prayers are with you and yours – you are all dear to the Hindailehs!

By: Eva

Eva — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 21:55:38 +0000

I’ve had a few people ask me in the last few days if I resigned at my church because I was afraid what would happen if my church found out my son was gay. I didn’t leave because I was afraid. I left for different reasons, one of which was to honor him. I love him and am proud of him and I couldn’t stay knowing if it was known, he wouldn’t be accepted. God loves and accepts him and I do too, and I do it openly.

By: Lynne Sheaff

Lynne Sheaff — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 03:36:23 +0000

This explains a lot to me about your most recent career move. (or maybe not!) Thank you all, Sullivan-Knoffs, for helping us all grow and understand God’s mysterious ways.

By: Melinda Hunter

Melinda Hunter — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 01:55:41 +0000

Eva and John: I’ve known you both for years, first at seminary and in CPE at McNeal, then at Douglas Park and after that our paths didn’t cross much. I worked for the Cook County Government with DUI’s, and Eva, you pursued ministry. I admired your persistance in that. I gave up fighting to be recognized as a “woman in ministry,” and God led me to a place to serve.

I am touched and awed by your courage in telling your story. It is a story of faith and love; of anger and fear. The last time I saw your boys was when they were very little and watching the Lion King in pajamas at your first house. Thank you so much, Eva and John for your honesty. With Love, Melinda Hunter

By: Terry Cathcart

Terry Cathcart — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 03:23:29 +0000

Thank you Eva for sharing your story with us. Like so many others, Sue and I were impressed and encouraged by your family’s vulnerability and love. Could this be how God’s Covenant Churches become intentional about slowly and tenderly addressing the “mom, if God made me this way, why wouldn’t it be okay” statement/question? Terry Cathcart

By: Eva Sullivan-Knoff

Eva Sullivan-Knoff — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 19:24:47 +0000

In reply to Herb Freedholm.

Thank you Herb. This means much. We say yes and amen.
Peace to you our brother,
Eva

By: Herb Freedholm

Herb Freedholm — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 18:14:56 +0000

Dear Eva and Family,
I was deeply moved by your story and by the pilgrimage of your son and so many others who have been marginalized both in our society and more tragically by the church. You have my deepest respect and love for your openness, honesty, and grace in both telling the story and walking with your son. I long for the day when instead of spending our time sorting out the guilty from the good, instead of pouring over Scripture to discern who is out and who is in, we can welcome all who bear in their hearts the image of God regardless of race or gender or class or sexual orientation. You are deeply in my thoughts and prayers!

By: Paul Bengtson

Paul Bengtson — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 15:31:42 +0000

Dear Eva, Your story is powerful, yet tender…painful, yet liberating…deeply personal…yet refreshingly public. Cheryl and I love all the men in your life…all three of them! We are so thankful to be a part of the love and support family that stand with you all as we, together, pray and listen to one another in this journey. The love and acceptance of loved ones, while having respectfully different views of behaviors, has been a growing edge in our family in many relationships…yet God has brought peace and mutual love that transcends the differences.

We honor you for sharing your story and we know God’s grace will lead you in each chapter of that story. Love you all, Paul