In this episode of Important Context, Ryan Sides sits down with Pastor Mike Walrond, Senior Pastor of First Corinthian Baptist Church in Harlem, to ask a foundational question: Is there biblical justification for queer people belonging fully in the church — without framing queerness as sin?
Pastor Mike traces how his theology evolved from an anti-queer upbringing and the culture he encountered early on, toward a more ethically consistent, deeply studied, and radically affirming approach to ministry. He shares pivotal moments that reshaped his thinking — including the difference between allowing presence and truly offering equitable access to leadership, dignity, and belonging.
Together, you dig into church hurt, deconstruction, and what it means to seek spiritual community after harm. Using his memorable “restaurant vs. learning how to cook” analogy, Pastor Mike offers a practical way for listeners to evaluate faith spaces with discernment rather than despair.
This conversation is part of Ryan’s broader arc exploring what faith can look like for queer people who are navigating grief, longing, anger, curiosity, and hope — especially within the Black church tradition.
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