Feeling uncomfortable at my church's VBS(Vacation Bible School)

[Guest Motormouth18]

This year for VBS, my church has joined together with another small southern baptist church in my area. We're doing everything at this other church. I feel extremely uncomfortable there. Everyone from my church know that I'm trans, so to them the way I dress and act is normal for Kim(me). They think nothing of it. At this church, though, I got looks. They're not used to a young man looking person being introduced as a she(for now). I got placed with 2 older(60+) ladies to help with the 11/12 year olds.. I could tell that even though they were nice to me,they weren't too comfortable around me. I kept my distance and spent as much time as I could with my church members that know me. I'm an extreme introvert, so that didn't help. I don't carry on conversations with people that I don't know more than need be. Hopefully, tomorrow I'll be in charge of the sports area, so I won't have to much talking or helping. I know that trying to explain what I am would be pointless. The adults would either think that I'm crazy or not know I'm talking about.

[Charlize]

I'm sorry you are dealing with the lack of understanding but also glad that you are going out into the world and being of service to others. That is the best way to show others that you are the wonderful person you are. You will quietly win them over in time

Hugs,

Charlize

[Guest Cyd]

I agree with Charlize. I think you are AWESOME to be out as trans at your church, and I think your churchfolks are awesome for accepting you. I know acceptance isn't always the case with southern baptist churches.

Remember that the folks who seem uncomfortable are the ones with the problem, not you. Just be yourself. You sound pretty great to me.

[Guest Motormouth18]

I wish that I felt more comfortable and didn't let stuff like this affect me like it does. The looks made me feel "wrong" for expressing who I am. I was dressed appropriately for a young man, a young men's polo and pass-the-knee shorts, so if I hadn't introduced as a she(I don't require people to call me he, very few people do), I would've been fine.

[VickySGV]

There is another dynamic going on it there Kim, the big point is their age, and the fact you are a stranger to them. The gender issue is there, but the have an "inside club" there, and any of your fellow congregants will get the same treatment.

[Guest Motormouth18]

Vicki, none of my fellow church members got the "treatment", I guess, as I did. They all fit right in. My youth pastor was cracking jokes at the "dumb blonde" in charge of the whole event. I felt like a complete unwelcomed outsider.

[Guest Cyd]

Gosh, I'm so sorry, Kim. I hope you can find strength in your inner being, and know that in the grand scheme of things, these narrow-sighted folks don't matter at all. God loves you--the REAL you, absolutely and totally. And folks who are able to truly see you and accept you are the ones to keep hold of and treasure. Those who can't...well, just keep being your awesome self. If they catch up with reality and learn to open their eyes and hearts, great; if not, stay focused on those who affirm you and let the rest fall away.

I know it's hard sometimes. Sending a big hug your way!

[VickySGV]

Kim, I am legitimately sorry they made you feel that way. I am probably spoiled in the fact that my parish church, and my regional and national Church do show me love and acceptance for who and what I am. I wish I could do more for you than just sending a cyber hug, but as I mentioned in another post I made here, I know that Jesus and God are happy and accepting of us as we are, and are proud to have us in their family!! Keep that thought in mind always.

[Guest Motormouth18]

Well, today went alot better. I was in charge of the playground. The little kids thought nothing of how I was dressed(v-neck t shirt and shorts). All of the adults who were there with the kids where either from my church or know me really well. Plus, they let go with my church youth leader for his class instead of with the young kids. I feel so much more comfortable around him as I know from a couple of long conversations that he gets that this is real and that I feels for me and he can't imagine the daily struggle I go through.